What does your child do for fun? Do they like video games? Would your kids enjoy learning how to code? These are three of the many questions parents have regarding kids and tech.
Teaching your kids how to code requires patience, time and consistency. Even though it can be challenging, this guide will help you find a number of great games that will teach your children how to code while having fun. Read on to find the perfect activity!
Tips for Playing Online Programming Games
Before getting started, it's important to make sure you and your child are completely prepared. Take a look at our tips below:
1. Prepare a Desktop or Laptop
Most programming games need to be played on a computer or laptop. It's important to take a close look at the required specs of the games you're considering to make sure your device can handle it. Otherwise, your child might have difficulty participating in fun online courses for kids with a laggy device.
2. Remove Ad Blockers
Some apps and games may not function properly if you have ad blockers in place. If this is something that worries you, you might want to keep a close eye on your child while they play.
3. Close Unnecessary Browser Tabs
To make sure nothing interferes with their opportunity to learn coding at home, make sure you close other browser tabs. This prevents their games from getting slowed down.
Best Programming Games for Kids
Now that you have everything you need, it's time to choose which games to play. There are numerous options out there. One of the most popular are Minecraft and Roblox. However, if you're looking for some free options, here are our top picks:
1. Code Camp World
This awesome game takes coding to a whole new level by allowing your kids to play in real-life as well as online. There are many different projects to work on and many different ways of solving them. It's a great way to encourage your kids to learn how to code while having fun!
Here are some of its most notable features:
- ● Wide variety of coding disciplines - every camper is given access to various coding disciplines and languages to learn. This includes JavaScript, drag and drop, and even CSS. For newbies, this gives children plenty of opportunities to explore their options.
- ● Build websites and games - complete HTML and CSS projects that allow kids to learn how to build websites, flash games, search engines and more. There are many fun projects to choose from.
2. RoboZZle
RoboZZle is a fun puzzle game where kids get the chance to program robots. It's fun, interactive and easy to use! Your kids will get the chance to work through various levels as they learn how to create robots that perform different tasks.
Here are some of its most notable features:
- ● Step by step instructions - this game guides your child through each task in the puzzle. This allows them to learn how to code at a comfortable pace. It's great for beginners!
- ● Tons of levels - this game offers different tasks which means you can play it over and over again without feeling bored.
3. Scratch
Scratch is a free online coding language that's perfect for kids. It allows your child to learn how to code without having to download a program on their device or computer. You can either use scratch.mit.edu or install the app in your browser and use it for gaming!
Here are some of its most notable features:
- ● Thousands of projects - there are over thousands of projects within scratch that allow children to learn how to code without being bored.
- ● Developed by MIT - Scratch was developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. As if that weren't enough, it allows children to build games and animations with a drag and drop programming interface to get them started.
4. CodeCombat
Perfect for kiddos who want something more immersive, CodeCombat is an incredible game that requires players to create original games. Your child will learn how to code, build games, and compete against each other.
Here are some of its most notable features:
- ● Multiple programming languages - this game allows your child to learn in a variety of coding languages, including Python. It also teaches kids how to organize their code properly and make it easier to read.
- ● Publish games - this game gives your child the opportunity to develop games and publish them online for others to play. This is a great way to give them an excellent way to enjoy the fruits of their labor.
- ● Fun and interactive - to play the classic game, kids write code which determines what their characters do in the game. This is a great learning experience that leads to hours of fun.
Conclusion
Learning to code is a great way for children to improve their organization, problem solving and creativity skills. You don't have to worry about your child getting stuck or discouraged when they are faced with difficult challenges while they learn. The best online programming games will provide them with the tools they need, while being engaging and fun so that they can have fun while learning.
