6 Fun Games To Introduce Coding To Kids

Coding is the backbone of programming software, mobile apps and websites. So, getting a knowhow of this technology can prove to be highly beneficial for kids in the tech driven era.

With exploding careers in the tech industry, countries like Britain have made coding mandatory in schools.

With the emergence of private creative learning center Singapore is keen to increase the number of kid coders by introducing coding in schools. Learning to code can benefit kids in the long run as they help kids learn critical decision making skills, analytical skills, enhance their creativity when they learn to create something from scratch.

 Those kids who may not be ready to jump into the coding world right away, they can still get the hang of it by learning the basics in fun and accessible way. There are few games that can help kids try their little hands on programming actions.

Scratch Junior

It is a version of Scratch  that is available as a free Android and IOS app. This fun website lets kids create their own games and stories that is centered around the characters they make. They can add their own sounds and use series of programming blocks to dictate the actions of the characters. It is apt for kids aged 5-7.

Hopscotch

It is a free IOS app. The concept of giving commands to the characters is similar to the other apps, however this game involves a lot more creativity than the others. Multiple characters can be added in this game and older kids can program actions and create their own stories around their code.

Lightbot and Lightbot Jr

This game features some interesting aspects of programming. It is a puzzle game where one needs to light up all the tiles on a 3d grid on one run by programming the robot with a series of instructions. It is available for free on web browser and cost $3 on android/IOS apps. The junior app is apt for kids aged 4-8 and 9+ kids can play the main version.

Kodable

Kodable is a fun game for kid coders Singapore that has 100+ levels where the gamer needs to help a funny little alien navigate mazes on a new planet. The game teaches kids coding concepts like looping, debugging, conditions and functions. It is available for free on IOS, the pro version costs $7. It is suitable for kids aged 5-8.
 

Robozzle

Suitable for 6+ kids, robozzle is a social puzzle game that needs guiding a robot through series of maze with limited commands. Levels vary according to difficulty level and they can get pretty challenging for even seasoned coders. Its versions can be played on browsers for free, however prices may vary up to $2on IOS and android platforms.

Robot Turtles

Robot turtles is a board game that teaches kids programming basics without the use of any technology. It requires matching each turtle to a matching coloured jewel. The gamer is required to pick cards and there are twists and turns along the way to get the prize. It is designed for kids aged 4-8 and has turned to be a huge seller this holiday season.