35 Educational Coding Games and Apps for Kids
Modern children can start learning programming even in preschool and school years. The specific age does not matter: there are many simple languages, supporting environments, and even educational and educational games and applications. With their help, any child can understand the basics of writing code and complete their first simple projects.
We're at school Pixel We believe that even a 5-6 year old preschooler, if he is interested in computers and games, can be taught to program. There is likely an objection based on the assumption that this is an exclusively adult topic. This is partly true, but our experience of working with preschoolers and primary schoolchildren is a counter-argument. Even inexperienced children who are trained using educational platforms begin to understand both the basics and complex principles of programming.
The task is simplified if educational games and applications are used. This is a plus: even restless kids like to master code in a playful way. They willingly use the available tools of various environments, get involved in the process and begin to approach the understanding of “adult” programming, which has long become the second literacy in the IT era.
Let's move on to the main topic: today we want to look at 35 programming games and applications for children. The selection includes:
Environments in which you can learn block coding (13 pieces);
Games useful for beginner Pythonists (9);
Developmental platforms for teaching web development using HTML, CSS and JavaScript (10);
Educational apps aimed at teenagers (3).
We will highlight 4 relevant sections and present thematic options in each. We think that we will be able to find something that will interest your child. Let's go!
Games and applications for block programming
In this section, we will look at games for teaching children programming using block designs. We suggest starting without any deviations.
1. Scratch Jr
Link: scratchjr.org
Age: 5–7 years
Access: free, free
Scratch Junior is an environment designed for preschoolers and primary schoolchildren and teaches the basic principles of writing code using bright blocks as an example. There are all the necessary tools: internal editor, drawing tools, etc.
Can be downloaded to mobile devices. A web version and a desktop application are also available.
2. PictoMir
Link: piktomir.ru
Age: preschool and junior school
Access: no restrictions
PictoMir is a textless educational environment. It was developed by the Russian Academy of Sciences and is intended to immerse preschoolers and primary schoolchildren in programming. Even if they can't read or write, PictoMir will do.
Applications are available for devices running Android, MacOS, Windows and Linux operating systems.
3. Lightbot: Code Hour
Link: iOS
Age: from 5 years
Access: free
This puzzle consists of dozens of levels that you will need to go through, controlling the robot and understanding the programming logic. A set of simple block commands is provided: they are needed to guide the character and solve simple problems.
There is a limitation: only iPad and iPhone owners can download and install the interactive application.
4. Kodu Game Lab
Link: kodugamelab.com
Age: The environment is intended for children of preschool age and older
Access: free
Kodu is a children's 3D game development environment. With its help, you can develop an understanding of the basics of coding in a playful way. You have to not only create, but also play, which captivates children.
A desktop application is provided, download and installation required.
5. Box Island
Link: iOS
Age: any
Access: free distribution, extensions available starting at $7.9
This is a mobile game with which even an inexperienced child can understand the basic principles of programming. You will use loops, conditional statements, and other constructs to progress through the game world.
The application is designed for iPad and iPhone.
6. Hopscotch: Programming for Kids
Link: iOS
Age: any
Access: free, you can subscribe starting at $7.9
This is a game creation app for kids that teaches coding using simple, colorful designs. As with the Scratch Junior environment, there are internal drawing tools: this is an added plus and makes it fun for beginners.
Only owners of iPad and iPhone smartphones can use the environment.
7. Code Kingdom: Treasure
Link: iOS
Age: any
Access: free
iPad and iPhone users can download this app and start learning how to write code using block commands. The format is interesting: you have to go through levels and gain points to gain access to new adventure stories.
8. Tinkerblocks
Link: iOS
Age: from 6 years
Access: from 249 rubles
With Tinkerblocks, even a small child can be taught to write simple code. You will become familiar with the functions, conditions, and similar structures. Plus – maximum simplicity and intuitive interface.
Like a number of other applications presented, this option is available to owners of iPhones and iPads.
9. CodeSpark: Academy Kids Coding
Link: iOS
Age: from 5 years
Access: paid from 599 rubles, there is a trial period
CodeSpark focuses on computer science and fun puzzle solving. The child will be able to learn to apply cycles, conditions and manage events. All available actions and operations are as simple and intuitive as possible.
Owners of iPad and iPhone can use the application.
10. Code Land: Kids Coding Games
Age: any, but not less than 4 years
Access: free, but to use advanced tools requires a subscription starting at 499 rubles
The peculiarity of the option is the presence of a number of conditional mini-games, combined and presented in the form of one application for iPads and iPhones. There is no information about support for other platforms.
In Code Land, every little programmer can start learning the basics of coding just by playing games.
11. Kodable Basics
Link: iOS
Age: 4–10 years
Access: no payment, you can choose an extended tariff plan starting from 2.3 thousand rubles
A distinctive feature of this free online programming game for schoolchildren and preschool children is the presence of labyrinths. You will need to take them and master useful skills: working with syntax, operators, variables and even arrays, as well as algorithmic thinking.
Only iPhone and iPad owners can download and install the game.
12. Coding for Kids: Learn to Code
Link: iOS
Age: 5–9 years
Access: free, there is the possibility of internal purchases; the full version costs 349 rubles
The application for iPhones and iPads is intended for beginners. In a playful way, you can start learning loops and functions, arrays, the basics of debugging and more.
The developer has provided 40 educational mini-games with a total number of levels of more than 800.
13. Tynker Junior
Age: minimum 4 years
Access: free, purchases from 399 rubles are possible
The developer offered 6 educational adventure games. There are more than 200 tasks to be completed, based on puzzles that can be understood even if the user is a child. The advantage comes down to the fact that you don’t need to be able to read: you have to code using bright blocks.
Python games for schoolchildren
Let's get to more complex things: let's look at programming games for teenagers and younger children, where the main coding tool is the Python language.
1. Tynker
Website: tynker.com
When to start: at any age
Access: you can start for free
To put it simply, Tynker implements game-based courses: they help beginning children and teenagers take their first steps toward mastering Python, web development, and more.
2. CodeMonkey
Website: codemonkey.com
When to start: at any age
Access: free, paid services available
CodeMunky is an online platform designed to teach children programming in CoffeeScript and Python. As before, the game format is implemented: you have to interact with an interesting character – a monkey, collect bananas, solve puzzles and more.
3. CheckiO
Website: checkio.org/ru
When to start: no age restrictions
Access: free
The site features free programming games for children. You must use Python or TypeScript.
CheckiO is a good tool to complement self-paced learning. The advantage is the implementation of the game format.
4. CodeCombat
Website: codecombat.com
When to start: for users of all ages
Access: the first classes are free, to clarify the final cost it is recommended to contact representatives of the site
The platform is intended for teachers, students and their parents. In a gamified format, you can learn the Python language using it. The user can also choose from Java, Lua, C++ and more.
5.CodinGame
Website: codingame.com
When to start: at any age
Access: free
You have to play, complete levels and compete with other users. As your child progresses internally, he will be able to improve his Python programming skills. A plus is the presence of two modes: the first is intended for beginner Pythonists, the second is for corporate use.
6. Writing games in Python, part 1
Link: Android
When to start: from 13 years old
Access: no information
The application for devices with the Android operating system will help you learn how to use the Tkinter library, as well as write simple games in Python.
7. Mimo
When to start: from 10 years
Access: the first lessons are free, then you will need to subscribe
In the application you can learn to code and solve programming problems. The advantage is the ability to create your first projects in Python, TypeScript, HTML and more. Convenient progress tracking system.
8. Enki: Learn to Code
Link: Android
When to start: at any age
Access: no payment
The application will be useful if you want to master the basics of programming and acquire skills useful in terms of using Python. You will have to solve interesting problems and answer questions related to coding.
9. Minecraft
Website: minecraft.net
When to start: from 9-10 years
Access: free
In Minecraft, you can write code using Python to create mods. This popular sandbox game attracts children and teenagers, so we recommend using it in conjunction with Python. We explained exactly how to do this in free selection of training videos. Younger children can learn block-based programming here with Code Builder.
HTML, CSS and JavaScript games for teenagers
We reviewed websites and programming games. Now we want to introduce and briefly describe the tools for getting started in web development.
A caveat: we do not indicate age and availability further. All sites and applications are suitable for beginner teenagers, and answers to questions about whether they are paid or free are usually posted on official web resources and application pages in the App Store and Google Play branded stores.
1. Erase All Kittens
Website: eraseallkittens.com
This is an adventure game where you can learn the basics of web development using HTML and CSS. You'll need to choose a kitten and start solving puzzles to advance through the internal progression system and earn rewards in the form of badges, tokens, and cards with cute kittens.
2. Flexbox Defense
Website: flexboxdefense.com
The online platform is relatively complex: it is not suitable for beginners. If you figure it out, you can make progress in web development.
3. Flexbox Froggy
Website: flexboxfroggy.com
The game will allow you to quickly master the basics of CSS. There is a Russian version that will make it easier to get started. The child will have to control a fascinating character – a frog – and help him pass 24 levels. Each one will require simple code.
4. Flexbox Zombies
Website: flexboxzombies.com
This is a conditional continuation of the Flexbox series. A distinctive feature is the Zombie theme.
To play and improve your web development skills, you will need to create an account. The full course, if you want to study with teachers, costs $179.
5. Grid Garden
Website: cssgridgarden.com
The mechanics and basic principles are reminiscent of the Flexbox line, so we will only note the main difference – managing a virtual garden. You have to write CSS code and gradually move from one level to another.
6. CSS Diner
Website: flukeout.github.io
Here everything is almost the same as before, but the “acting characters” are different. In the case of CSS Dinner, these are plates dancing on a makeshift table. As you progress through the levels, the number of elements will change along with their variety.
7. Super Markup Man
Link: STEAM
This is a remarkable game that will help you practice using CSS and HTML. A distinctive feature is the presence of 100 levels. You have to go through them taking into account the tips and by controlling the main character – Markup Man.
8.WarriorJS
Website: warriorjs.com
JavaScript training is implemented through a gaming adventure: you will need to write code, complete levels in a virtual dungeon, and improve your web development skills. The free game is suitable for both beginners and experienced developers.
9. Screeps
Website: screeps.com
This is a fun MMO game where you learn by programming your own AI units. To do this you will need to use JavaScript.
A paid version can be found in the STEAM store. A free demo version is provided.
10.Untrusted
Website: untrustedgame.com
This is a remarkable hacking game. You will play online, you will need to compete with other players in the use of JavaScript.
Programming Apps for Teens
To conclude today’s selection, we’ll present 3 additional apps that are suitable for teaching teenagers how to write code. This:
Swift Playgrounds. You will be working with Swift instruments. The program will help you learn how to develop mobile software for iOS devices. Plus – interactive and intuitive environment.
Sololearn: AI & Code Learning. The developers have focused on immersing themselves in generative artificial intelligence and creating websites and applications. You can also learn how to analyze big data.
“Learn programming”. This is a good tool for diving into HTML 5. A plus is the presence of visual explanations and code examples. Tests are provided.
Today's selection of games and applications useful for beginners is complete: we have come to the end. We hope that you were able to find and choose something useful for yourself or your child.
If not, or if you want to start learning with a teacher, our online courses are suitable. Just choose one of those presented on Pixel website.
The material was prepared by teachers of the Pixel online school. We teach children and teenagers to write code and together use developmental and educational applications with maximum benefit.
