What runs your phone, smart watch, computer, car, and even the internet? It all comes down to the code. Programming code can take many forms, from drag-and-drop blocks, to typing words and symbols, or even ones and zeros. It’s easier than ever to learn programming from your own home, and the Discovery World Education Team has tested and approved these resources to help you get started!
The go-to website for coders of all ages. Code.org is full of free courses and projects to start your journey. Start by making your own games, apps, or computer drawings, eventually using the same programming languages as professionals. Account creation is required to save progress.
Learn to speak code with this easy-to-follow summary that defines coding, programming terms, various coding languages, and provides additional resources to help you and your learners get started!
These challenges will get you thinking like a programmer without you realizing it. Simple 2-minute tasks that turns into hours of learning and fun. No account required.
Here are our favorites:
Explore how computers read code by becoming the computer and following commands. Grades 3 and up.
Choose the right card order and follow the commands to complete the task. Grades 5 and up.
Discover the key concepts behind code by guessing the rules and learning from your mistakes. Grades 5 and up.
Hundreds of hour-long activities for the young programmer. Tutorials are filled with familiar characters to get your learner interested in programming. No account required.
Scratch uses drag-and-drop block programming so you don’t need to type all the code. Follow tutorials or start from… scratch. You can even share your creation with the world! (Account creation needed to share projects.)
Easy-to-follow tutorials on programming with Apple’s Swift language, used to run many popular apps. Available for Mac and iPad only. Apple ID required.
Looking for something with real-world application? App Inventor lets you build and test your apps on the web or on an Android device! Like Scratch, use drag and drop programing to build from the ground up or follow their tutorials. Add in some artificial intelligence to build an app that can tell what different images are! Account creation required.
Khan Academy has guided programming tutorials to get hands-on experience for experienced learners. Learn JavaScript programming concepts and try them out all on the web! Account creation required.
Already familiar with programming? CheckiO has coding games for beginners and advanced programmers where you can improve your coding skills by solving engaging challenges and fun tasks using Python and JavaScript. Account creation required.
Looking for something a bit different? Tinkercad applies programming to build 3D objects, simulate Arduino circuits, or create moving machines! Account creation required.
If you want to learn a true programming language, Python is right for you. This language is open-source, easy to use, and has many resources available. No experience necessary! No account required.
Want some in-depth projects to do with Python?
Want some in-depth projects to do with Python? Check out these resources from Automate the Boring Stuff with Python.
Need a place to code? This site will get you testing and collaborating without the need to download any software! No account required.
