Coding competitions take programming out of the classroom and into the real world! They offer kids a fun challenge where they can push themselves to learn and apply their knowledge in a meaningful way. Entering a coding competition for middle school students will make your child’s coding journey more interactive, social, and exciting. 

Middle school is a prime time to explore if coding is right for your child. Kids who have a competitive spirit can build real-world skills, practice teamwork and communication, and add to their college resume. Not only that, they walk away with awards and gain recognition for showcasing their hard work and skills.

To get started, I’ve rounded up 7 exciting coding competitions designed for middle school students. 

Get Ready for Middle School Coding Competitions

Many of these coding competitions utilize Python and JavaScript, two of the real-world programming language we teach in our Middle School Core Track.

Students who learn to code at CodeWizardsHQ have the support of their instructors and our community as they compete. Not only will they learn the technical skills, but the perseverance, critical thinking, and creativity to win top prizes. 

We even host our own Logic Challenge for grades 3-12 and a Code Challenge in our student platform. Students get to compete weekly with coding questions they answer to win prizes, one of the many ways we have gamified our coding program. This is one way we encourage and motivate kids to keep learning.

Learn more about our Middle School Coding Program and how we teach coding to kids ages 11-13.

Coding Competitions for Middle School Students

1. American Computer Science League (ACSL)

Participants: K-12 Grades
Dates: Nov – May
Location: Virtual
Cost: $50-$150 per team
Prizes: Prizes, Certificates

The American Computer Science League (ACSL) organizes computer programming and computer science contests for K-12 schools, organizations, and local groups. Students join as a team led by a teacher or parent advisor, but complete the tests as individuals. The season is divided into four contests conducted through HackerRank over the academic year. At the end, the top-scoring students are invited to compete in an invitation-only Finals.

The Junior Division is for junior high and middle school students (up to grade 9) who are learning programming or who have coding experience. The contests test students on fundamental concepts in computer science, ranging from Number Systems to Boolean Algebra to Digital Electronics. In this division, there is also a problem to solve using programming in Python 3, Java, or C++. Each contest consists of a short answer test and an online programming problem to solve.

The ACSL tests students on their coding knowledge and application. It’s ideal for kids who want to learn throughout the year and deepen their understanding of computer science concepts. 

Visit ACSL website

2. Congressional App Challenge

Participants: 6-12 Grades
Dates: May – Oct
Location: Virtual, U.S. Congressional Districts
Cost: Free
Prizes: Display in the US Capitol, #HouseOfCode Event Invite 

Both sides of Congress can agree on the importance of computer science and STEM education. This competition is for kids who feel inspired to use technology to get involved in their community. It gives them a chance to explore STEM and coding through hands-on practice.

The Congressional App Challenge is a US-based competition hosted by members of Congress to promote STEM education among today’s youth. Middle school and high school students work individually or in teams to code an original application, written in any programming language, that addresses a problem locally, nationally, or globally. Winners from each congressional district are invited to Washington, D.C., for the annual #HouseOfCode event, where they showcase their apps to lawmakers and the tech community.

The goal of the app challenge is to encourage students to learn to code and inspire them to pursue careers in computer science. The competition engages students from communities that are traditionally underrepresented in the tech community and also emphasizes making coding more accessible. Apps are graded on creativity, concept, and design, and don’t have to be technically sophisticated to win.

Visit Congressional App Challenge website

3. Cyber Patriot 

Participants: Middle & high school students
Dates: April – October
Location: Virtual
Cost: $50,000 scholarship
Prizes: $205 per team

The National Youth Cyber Defense Competition, hosted by CyberPatriot, puts teams of 2-6 students in the position of newly hired IT professionals managing the network of a small company. Teams are given virtual operating systems and compete in multiple rounds to find and fix cybersecurity vulnerabilities while maintaining critical services. Each team, with the support of a coach and mentor, has to complete two challenges during their six-hour competition period: The Network Security Challenge and The Cisco Networking Challenge. 

The competition provides access to 12 training modules and 4 practice rounds before the scored competition kicks off. They have access to archived training materials on the public side of the website. The top teams in the nation win a trip to the National Finals Competition. There they earn national recognition and scholarship money, like $50,000 from Northrop Grumman. 

There are very few competitions that cover cybersecurity in-depth. The structure of this competition provides a lot of training, education, and practice along with mentorship.

Visit Cyber Patriot website

4. Bebras

Participants: 6-18 years old
Dates: November
Location: Virtual, In-person
Cost: Free
Prizes: Certificate

Bebras is an international initiative aimed at promoting Informatics (Computer Science, or Computing) and computational thinking among school students from 6 to 18. The Bebras Challenge tests your child’s logic and computational skills through a set of fun and challenging problems. These are the same problem-solving skills that software engineers use to write programs and apps. 

You can break these skills down into smaller and more familiar components like pattern recognition, algorithm design, data analysis or abstraction.

There are several age categories middle school students can play in, such as Benjamins (age 10-12) and Cadets (age 12-14). The questions are designed to help students explore their talents and passion for informatics and computational thinking with engaging challenges. Skills which can be used in many areas of school, work, and life. 

During the competition, each group will get 3 sets of 5 tasks. The challenge itself is coordinated by a teacher and takes place in the classroom. The 3 sets each have a level of difficulty: easy, medium, or hard. Studentswill have 45 minutes to complete as many tasks as they can. The tasks can all be completed without any preparation or studying. The best students from each age group are invited to spend a day at a university working on more exciting tasks. 

Visit Bebras website

5. FIRST LEGO League Competition

Participants: 4-16 years old
Dates: August – April
Location: In-person
Cost: $275+
Prizes: Trophies, medals, and certificates

FIRST LEGO League is a STEM program and competition for children. It introduces STEM through fun, hands-on learning and robotics. Students will learn the basics of STEM and apply their skills in an exciting competition while building habits of learning, confidence, and teamwork along the way.

The program has three divisions: Discover (ages 4-6), Explore (ages 6-10), and Challenge (ages 9-16). Middle school students will compete in the Challenge division with a group. Teams practice year-round for the competition. Starting with a Kit of Parts, student teams design, program, and build industrial-sized robots to play an action-packed game. They compete on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance in the spirit of Coopertition, meaning that teams help and cooperate with each other even as they compete.

These competitions combine the excitement of a sporting event with the rigors of science and technology. The FIRST Robotics Competition season culminates with district and regional events where qualifying teams compete for awards and a spot at the FIRST Championship. The competition features a variety of awards recognizing different aspects of a team’s performance, including engineering, design, teamwork, community outreach, and leadership.

Visit FIRST LEGO League website

6. NASA App Development Challenge

Participants: Middle & high school students
Dates: April
Location: Virtual, In-person
Cost: Free
Prizes: Recognition by NASA and features on NASA platforms

Middle school students have the opportunity to be a part of something that’s out of this world! The App Development Challenge is a coding challenge in which NASA presents technical problems to middle and high school students seeking student contributions to deep space exploration missions. These innovations help NASA’s exploration to the moon, Mars, and beyond.

In previous competitions, middle school teams created an application displaying in real-time the path of the Artemis II mission and created a prioritized list of antennas which have line of access to Artemis II. There was also a bonus task of displaying and smoothing out trajectory data received.

Students compete in teams of at least 5 students and can use any programming language (Java, C#, C++, Scratch, etc.) to complete development of an application. The top teams advance to present their app at Johnson Space Center in Houston with NASA subject matter experts from the SCaN team. 

Visit NASA App Development website

7. Scratch Olympiad 

Participants: 7-18 years old
Dates: May – Sept
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Prizes: Prizes, Certificates

The Scratch Olympiad is an international competition that challenges kids to do creative programming on Scratch or RobboScratch. Each year, the Olympiad sets a central theme, for example, “Sports Mania: The Ultimate Challenge” in 2025. Kids compete individually to interpret the theme into innovative projects — games, animations, stories, or educational tool – and solve a series of challenges. The challenges will test their creativity, problem-solving skills, and understanding of programming concepts. 

Middle school students compete with programmers from around the world in different categories based on their age, like My book (9-10 year old), Know-all, 11-12 year old, and Games (13-14 year old). Students with no experience can join and learn Scratch as they go.

Scratch makes learning to code a visual and event-driven experience, which is ideal for younger students. Coding in Scratch is a gateway for them from block coding into text-based programming. Without worrying about syntax, middle school students can solve problems and express their creativity in Scratch. Participating in Scratch Olympiad is not only a fun and engaging way to learn programming, but it also provides contestants with valuable skills that they can use in their future academic and professional pursuits. 

Visit Scratch Olympiad website

Prepare Your Middle School Student for a Coding Competition

If your child wants to compete in coding competitions, they can learn to code with CodeWizardsHQ. Our coding program teaches students fundamental coding concepts that they can flex to win prizes and recognition. 

The Middle School Coding Program is for kids, ages 11-13, to kickstart their coding journey in Python, one of the most popular languages for developers. The first course, Intro to Programming with Python, introduces fundamental programming concepts while building fun, interactive projects. Once kids have mastered the fundamentals in Python, they transition into learning other essential languages such as JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Students will also learn how to integrate databases and APIs into their projects to build robust, feature-rich applications like those we use today.

Kids will feel more than prepared and confident going into a competition with the right tools and skills. Learn more about our top-rated coding classes and enroll to get started.

The post 7 Exciting Coding Competitions for Middle School Students appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

There’s a way to make your Scratch game or project more immersive with just the addition of one or two sprites. A scrolling background is a fun and simple effect where sprites are used to create the illusion of movement and motion. It’s often combined with other effects to enrich a game or project and make it more visually appealing.

[Download] Printable Scratch Coding Tutorials Get 2 printable Scratch tutorials, Rocket Landing and Flying Space Cat, to code your own games step by step. Download Now

In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make a scrolling background in Scratch. Just like in the real world, backgrounds and locations change as we move. We’ll try to recreate this with our Walk In The Park project. It’s a great effect to add to any project, so give it a try!

View and remix the Walk In The Park project now.

What you need:

• Scratch account: Create a free Scratch account

No coding experience is necessary for this scrolling background tutorial. Beginner-friendly for kids ages 8 and up.

How to Make a Scrolling Background in Scratch

Our project is comprised of three different parts: the walking cat, the floating cloud, and the rolling hills.

Step 1: Create a New Scratch Project

We always start in Scratch by creating a new project. 

• Visit https://scratch.mit.edu/
• Login to your account
• Click on the “Create” button at the top

• A new project will open, rename the sprite to “cat”
• Rename your project to “A Walk In the Park”

You’re ready to code!

Hint: Name your project anything you want and click on the orange “Share” button to make it available for others to remix.

Step 2: Draw the Background

The cat is walking in a basic setting with a blue sky and dirt path. We’ll create this scene as a backdrop.

• Hover over the “Choose a Backdrop” icon and select “Paint”

• Use the rectangle tool to draw a blue rectangle for the blue sky
• Use the rectangle tool to draw a brown rectangle for the dirt path

In the preview screen, you will see your cat sprite and the background you drew. You can reposition your cat sprite around to fit your new scene. This backdrop is not part of the moving background.

Once you’re finished designing your backdrop, we can animate the cat to take a stroll! 

Hint: You can draw more details in the background to fit your game or project.

Step 3: Animate the Cat Walking

The cat sprite stays in place on the path, but appears to be walking. We animate the cat by changing its costume from having its foot down to up, then repeating that process.

• Click on the “cat” sprite to add code to it
• Start with a “when green flag clicked” block from the Events category
• Add a “forever” loop to continuously run the code blocks inside
• Inside the loop, add a “wait 0.5 seconds” from the Control category
• Underneath the wait block, add “next costume” to change costumes

This means that every 0.5 seconds, the cat’s costume will switch.

Press the green flag to test your code. It should look like your sprite is walking!

If it works, let’s move on to add a scrolling background. 

Hint: See the different costumes in the “costumes” tab and add costumes to create your own walking effect.

Step 4: Draw the Scrolling Background Sprites

We need to draw two sprites to represent the hills that scroll in the background. These sprites will move across the screen to create the scrolling effect.

• Hover over the “Choose a Sprite” icon and select “Paint”

• Use the square tool to draw a green rectangle from one edge of the project screen to the other
• Add a few points on the top of the rectangle using the “Reshape” tool
• Drag the points up and down to create multiple hills. The only points you should not change are the corners of the rectangle, so that the two points line up in the animation.

In order for our sprite to go off the screen as it moves, we will add a transparent box behind it that increases the width of our sprite.

• Use the square tool to draw a transparent rectangle from one edge of the artboard to the other.
• Then, rename the sprite “hills1”

Now, create the second sprite.

• Right-click on the “hills1” sprite and select duplicate

• Rename the new sprite “hills2”

In your preview screen, you can see both sprites. These two sprites are all you need to make a seamless scrolling background! 

Hint: You can change the color of the “hills2” sprite so you can see how the effect is working in your preview screen. Later, change it back to match “hills1”.

Step 5: Animate Sprite 1 in the Hills Background

The background position of the hills sprites will move from right to left and then start that process again continuously like this:

The “hills1” sprite starts in the center of the project. When we start the program, place it there.

• On the “hills1” sprite, add a “when green flag clicked” block
• In the preview screen, set the “hills1” sprite in the center. Use those x and y coordinates in a “go to” block. My sprite is positioned at x = 1 and y = 25 so I will use those coordinates.

Next, we want the sprite to scroll all the way to the left until it goes off the screen. 

• In the preview screen, set the “hills1” sprite just off the left side of the screen. Use those x and y coordinates in a “glide 10 seconds to” block. My sprite is positioned at x = -480 and y = 25.

• You might have noticed your “hills1” sprite covers the “cat” sprite. Under “when green flag clicked” add a “go to back layer” from the Looks category.
• Wrap a “forever” loop around these blocks to repeat the actions.

Click the green flag to see your “hills1” sprite moving to the left. Keep it up, only a few steps left! 

Hint: Experiment with the timing and position of your sprite to fit your animation.

Step 6: Animate Sprite 2 in the Hills Background

The code for the second hills sprite will have the same format as the first sprite. However, the sprite will start at the right side of the screen and move to the center.

When we start the program, place “hills2” off to right side of the screen.

• On the “hills2” sprite, add a “when green flag clicked” block
• Next add a “forever” loop underneath it, since we want to repeat these actions
• Inside the loop add a “go to back layer” block
• In the preview screen, set the “hills2” sprite just off of the right side of the screen.
• Use those x and y coordinates in a “go to” block. My sprite is positioned at x = 480 and y = 25.

Now, we want the sprite to move to the left until it gets to the center where the “hills1” sprite started. 

• Add “glide 10 seconds” block and use the same coordinates that “hills1” sprite started with. 

Click the green flag to see your hills moving to the left. Is everything working properly?

Hint: If you are seeing a gap between your two sprites, increase or decrease the x position on the hills sprites.

Your scrolling background is complete! View and remix A Walk In The Park project.

This is just one way to create a scrolling background effect. You can test different designs, speeds, and timings to create a unique experience for your project or game. In the bonus steps, I will show you how to animate a cloud in the background scroll and add music to your project.

If you want to learn from the experts, join our top-rated Scratch classes for kids.

Bonus 1: Add and Animate a Scrolling Cloud Sprite

Let’s create a scrolling background animation with only one sprite.

• Click on the “Choose a Sprite” icon

• Search for the “cloud” sprite and click to add it

• Since we want this sprite to go offscreen, go to Costumes tab and use the square tool to add a transparent rectangle in the background. This will allow the sprite to go off screen.

 Now, let’s add the code that moves the cloud object.

• Click on the “Code” tab
• Start with a “when green flag clicked” block
• Add a “forever” block from the Control category
• Add  a “go to” block inside the loop. Position your cloud to the right off-screen and use those coordinates, mine are x = 325 and y = 100
• Then, glide the cloud to the left side of a screen with “glide 7 seconds to”. Position your cloud to the left off-screen and use those coordinates, mine are x = -325 and y = 100

Press the green flag to see your cloud floating in the sky. 

Hint: Change the number of seconds in the glide block to make your cloud move faster or slower.

Bonus 2: Add Music to Your Scrolling Background Project

First, let’s set the background music we want to add.

• Click on the cat sprite and go to the “Sounds” tab
• Click on the “Choose a Sound” icon at the bottom

• Select a sound from the “Loops” category. I’m using Dance Around.

Now, let’s add the code that plays the music in the background.

• Go to the “Code” tab
• Add another “When green flag clicked” block
• Underneath that, use a “forever” block to continuously play the music
• Inside the loop, use a “play sound until done” and select the sound you chose.

Hit the green flag to listen to the song. What a nice atmosphere you’ve created by adding background music to your scene! 

Hint: You can upload a music file or even record a song to play in the “Sounds” tab. 

Learn More Scratch Effects with Tutorials

There are so many possibilities in Scratch! You can learn to code different effects, like the scrolling background, through tutorials or join a Scratch class to learn from the experts. 

Try one of these fun beginner tutorials next.

Download Free Printable Scratch Coding Tutorials PDF

Get the Rocketship Landing game and Flying Space Cat Scratch tutorials in a printable format.

Try a Scratch Coding Class for Kids

Now you know how to make a scrolling background in Scratch! It’s simple and you can include it in any game or project you code to make it better.

Kids can also learn Scratch from the experts in our elementary school coding program. It’s designed to teach kids, ages 8-11, how to think like programmers while building fun, interactive projects. Students learn fundamental programming concepts in Scratch and then advance to text-based languages like JavaScript and Python. It’s the best way for kids to learn Scratch.

Explore our programs and join our top-rated Scratch classes for kids.

The post Scratch Coding for Kids: Halloween Candy Collector Game appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Simple and addictive, the classic clicker game is easy and fun for everyone in the family Our party-themed Cookie Clicker shows kids how to make a clicker game on Scratch that displays a score counter. In this game, kids bake cookies with every click and watch their cookie count increase. The goal is to bake 999 cookies. Try this easy Scratch tutorial for kids to customize your own clicker game.

[Download] Printable Scratch Coding Tutorials Get 2 printable Scratch tutorials, Rocket Landing and Flying Space Cat, to code your own games step by step. Download Now

You can also learn to code from the experts in our top-rated Scratch coding classes. 

Complete this Scratch tutorial for kids to build a Cookie Clicker game.

Play and remix the Cookie Clicker game now.

Scratch Tutorial: Cookie Clicker

What you need:

• Scratch account: Create a free Scratch account

No coding experience is necessary for this Scratch tutorial. Beginner-friendly for kids ages 8 and up. Give it a try!

How To Make A Cookie Clicker Game On Scratch

Step 1: Create a new Scratch project

Let’s start by creating a new project. 

• Visit https://scratch.mit.edu/
• Login to your account
• Click on the “Create” button at the top

• A new project will open, rename your project to Cookie Clicker
• Hover over the cat sprite and click the trash can to delete it

A new project will open up and you will see the Scratch interface.

Hint: You can also remix shared projects by clicking the green Remix button on the project page.

Step 2: Add a backdrop to your game

Now we can code our clicker game! In the new project, we can add a background to our game.

• Click the “Choose a Backdrop” icon 

• Search for the “Party” backdrop and click to add it

The backdrop will appear in the preview screen and sets the scene for your game.

Hint: Choose any backdrop from the library or upload your own to fit your game design.

Step 3: Draw the cookie sprite

Every clicker game needs a clickable object. For this game, draw a cookie sprite using the Paint option.

• Hover over the “Choose a Sprite” icon and select “Paint”

• Draw the base of the cookie by clicking the circle tool. Click on the artboard and drag the mouse to create a circle. 
• Change the color of the circle using the color selector
• Draw smaller circles with the circle tool to decorate the cookie

• Position the cookie on the background in the preview area
• Click on the Code tab and rename the sprite to “cookie”

The cookie sprite should now be visible. However, nothing happens when we click the cookie. 

We’ll add that next, keep going! 

Hint: Draw or select any sprite you want to fit your game design.

Step 4: Add game logic to increase the cookie count

Every time we click on the cookie, we bake one cookie for the party. So, the number of cookies increases by one with every click. We’ll use a variable to represent the increasing number of cookies.

• Go to the variables category and right-click the “my variable” block
• Click “Rename Variable”

• Rename the variable “cookies” and click ok

• Check off the “cookies” variable 

The variable counter will now appear in the preview screen. We should start the number of cookies at 0 when the game starts.

• On the cookie sprite, add the “When Green Flag Clicked” block from the Events category
• Add a “Set cookies to 0” block from the Variables category 
• Go to the Events category and select a “When this sprite clicked” block
• Underneath that, add a “Change cookies by 1” block from the Variables category

Click the green flag to test your game. The variable “cookies” should start at 0 and increase every time you click the cookie sprite. 

Good job so far, let’s keep going!

Hint: You can add other sprites that increase the number of cookies by different amounts.

Step 5: Animate the cookie click

The cookie is pretty boring, let’s animate the cookie when it’s clicked by making the size of the cookie change.

• On the cookie sprite, add a “When this sprite clicked” block from the Events category
• Go to the looks category and add a “change size by 5” block. Increase the size slightly when we click. 
• Add a “wait” block from the Control category and update the time to 0.05 seconds
• Return this sprite to its original size. Select “set size to 100%” from the Looks category.

Try it out by clicking the Cookie sprite. Do you see the animation working? Great job!

Hint: Change the animation by increasing the size or wait time.

Step 6: Create the ones counter sprite

The counter is made up of three different sprites. Let’s start with the sprite that represents the ones.

• Click on the “Choose a Sprite” icon

• Search for the “Glow-0” sprite and click to add it

• Rename this sprite “ones”

• Position and resize it in the preview to fit your theme

Now,  we’ll add costumes for numbers 0 through 9 to the same sprite.

• Click on the “Costumes” tab
• Click the “Choose a Costume” button
• Add a costume to represent numbers 1 through 9, we are using Glow-1 through Glow-9

Now we can add code to connect the “ones” sprite to the cookie clicks. Start with the cookie.

• On the cookie sprite, add a “broadcast” block
• Click “New message” in the dropdown and name it “count”

 The sprite changes costumes each time the cookie is clicked.

• On the ones sprite, add a “when green flag clicked” block
• Add “switch costume to Glow-0” to start with the 0 costume
• Use the “when I receive count” block to get the message
• Then, add “next costume”

You should see the first part of your counter on your screen. Click the cookie 9 times and watch it change! 

But, it doesn’t go past 9, so we’ll add the rest of our counter in the next step.

Hint: You can draw or choose your own number sprite, just make sure to include costumes for numbers 0 to 9. 

Step 7: Create the tens counter sprite

We have a sprite to represent the ones, now let’s add another sprite to represent the tens.

• Right-click on the “ones” sprite and click duplicate

• Position the sprite in the preview and rename this sprite “tens”

• Add an if-then loop from the Control category around the “Next costume” block.
• Inside the loop, add the equals block from “operators”. On the left, add a “mod” block and, on the right, use 0. 
• Inside the mod block, add the “cookies” variable on the left and use 10 on the right. The complete formula (cookies mod 10 = 0) means that if the number of cookies is divided by 10, the remainder is 0.

Hint: Double-check that your counter matches the tens number in the “cookies” variable. 

Step 8: Create the hundreds counter sprite

After that, create one more sprite to represent the hundreds.

• Right-click on the “tens” sprite and click duplicate

• Position the sprite in the preview and rename this sprite “hundreds”

• Inside the mod block, change the 10 to 100. The complete formula (cookies mod 100 = 0) means that if the number of cookies is divided by 100, the remainder is 0.

Click the green flag to reset your game, then click on the cookie to watch the numbers increase! 

Hint: Double-check that your counter matches the hundreds in the “cookies” variable. Then uncheck the “cookies” variable to hide it from the screen.

Step 9: Stop the counter at 999 cookies

The goal is to bake 999 cookies, so when we reach that number the counter should stop. 

• Select the cookie sprite
• Add an if-then loop, before “change cookies by 1” 
• Add an equals condition, use 999 on the left and cookies on the right
• Inside the loop, add “stop all” from the control category

Click the sprite to watch the counter in action.

Hint: Use additional if-then statements to add effects and bonuses at different cookie counts.

With that final step, your Cookie Clicker game is complete! Play Cookie Clicker game.

If you want to let other people see your project and remix it, click the “Share” button at the top.

Add upgrades to your clicker game!

Bonus #1 – Add sound effect to the cookie click

Scratch has a number of sound effects and songs you can add to your project. Let’s play a sound each time we click on the cookie. 

• Select  the cookie sprite and go to the “Sounds” tab
• Click the “Choose a Sound” button on the bottom left

• Find the sound “Suction Cup” and click to add it

The sound has been created, now add the code the play the sound.

• Click on the Code tab
• Add the “start sound” block and choose “Suction Cup” under “when this sprite clicked”

Press the green flag and click your cookie to hear the sound! 

Hint: Select any sound or even record your own to match your game’s theme.

Bonus #2 – Add a balloon animation at 999 cookies

Celebrate when the player successfully bakes 999 cookies! In this game, we show a floating balloon animation.

Every time we click, we’ll check to see if we’ve made enough cookies. Once we reach 999, we will send a message that the cookies are done and the party is on.

• Select the cookie sprite
• Inside the “if 999 = cookies” loop, add a broadcast block 
• Click “New message” in the dropdown and call it “party”
• Underneath that add a “wait” block and change it to 2 seconds. This is how long our animation will play.

Next, add the balloon sprite that receives the message and performs an action.

• Click the “choose a sprite” icon, find the “Balloon1” sprite, and click to add it

• Rename it “balloons” and resize it in the “Size” field to 300

• Add a “when green flag clicked” block
• Then, use a “hide” block from the Looks category

Finally, add the code that makes the balloon float.

• Add the “When I receive” block and select “party”
• Add “start sound” and select “Clapping”
• Position the sprite with  “go to x: 0 and y: -275”
• Underneath, add the “show” block to make the balloon visible
• Move it to the top using “glide 2 seconds to x: 0 and y: 275”

Your animation should work now!

To test it, update “if 999 = cookies” on the cookie sprite to “if 2 = cookies”. Then click the cookie to view the animation play. Change it back when you’re sure it works.

Hint: You can add any effect when you reach 999 cookies, just add it inside the “if 999 = cookies” loop.

Discover More Clicker Games on Scratch

You can find a lot of clicker games in Scratch to use for ideas and inspiration. You can also remix them to see the code inside. This is a great way to expand your knowledge and the kinds of games you can build in Scratch.

These are some of the top clicker games in Scratch.

Pokemon Clicker (51834 hearts)

Click your way to getting every pokemon in this popular Scratch clicker game. Keep clicking to get points that you can use to upgrade your pokeballs, and collect popular pokemon to become the very best.

Planet Clicker (31326 Hearts)

Click on the planet to generate energy. This game features a store to buy upgrades and add energy. Through your username, it also keeps tracks of your stats like clicks and time played that you can access in the menu.

Roblox Clicker #Games #All (25716 Hearts)

This Roblox Clicker in Scratch lets you generate dummy Robux with every click. You can use in-game codes for more Robux and even customize your clicker with different skins. 

Cookie Clicker (24525 Hearts)

A simple cookie clicker with upgrade options all on one page. The game uses cloud variables for an auto-save functionality that lets you save your game and come back to keep clicking.

Money Clicker (23267 hearts)

Click your way to a fortune in the Scratch Money Clicker and get help by hiring employees, building companies and factories, and digging mines. This game has a clean design and scrolling feature for the upgrades.

Minecraft Clicker (17770 hearts)

Minecraft-themed clicker game where you click a building block to earn points. You can also buy upgrades to earn points quicker, like hiring the miner for help.

See more of the best Scratch games.

Get More Fun Scratch Tutorials

Keep coding with more fun Scratch tutorial for kids.

Download Free Printable Scratch Coding Tutorials PDF

Get the Rocketship Landing game and Flying Space Cat Scratch tutorials in a printable format.

Try a Scratch Coding Class for Kids

Once kids complete the Cookie Clicker game they can customize it endlessly. Completing this tutorial is just one way that kids can learn about coding in Scratch. 

If this tutorial inspired your child to learn more coding, try a Scratch coding class at CodeWizardshQ. Our elementary school coding program is designed to teach kids, ages 8-11, how to think like programmers while building fun, interactive projects. It starts by teaching fundamental coding concepts in Scratch and then advances to text-based languages like JavaScript and Python. Classes are live, online so they’re fun and engaging for kids while being convenient for parents. 

Learn more and join our top-rated Scratch classes for kids.

The post Scratch Coding for Kids: Halloween Candy Collector Game appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Kids don’t always make the best decisions, as parents we know that. They’re more likely to act than to think through the options and consider important factors. However, making good decisions is a building block for success, even at a young age. So, it benefits kids to build and practice the related skills early and often. 

If we want kids to think for themselves and make good decisions, they need the opportunity to practice their logical reasoning skills. This involves arriving at the best conclusion using a given set of criteria. Logical reasoning is rarely taught alone rather, kids get these skills from other subjects like coding, math, and science. Kids need more ways to hone and master their logical thinking.

That’s why we’re bringing you the 6th Annual CodeWizardsHQ Logic Challenge (Spring Semester).

The Spring 2025 Logic Challenge starts on February 24, register to join! 

It’s a FREE nationwide competition where students, between the ages of 8-18, solve engaging logic puzzles, develop problem-solving skills, and win exciting tech prizes.

The event is a fun and rewarding way for young minds to develop valuable 21st-century skills, preparing them for success in a digital world.

Students will complete 10 puzzles in total, one a week from February 24th to May 4th, 2025. Throughout the 10 weeks, participants will tackle a range of enriching challenges tailored to their age group—Elementary, Middle, or High School level. 

Join the Logic Challenge Now!

Kids Learn 21st-Century Skills

While completing these fun weekly challenges, students will learn to think like a programmer and build important 21st-century skills like:

• Problem Decomposition – Breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts.
• Pattern Recognition – Identifying trends and patterns that aid in problem-solving.
• Abstraction – Simplifying complex systems by reducing the problem to its core components.
• Algorithmic Thinking – Developing step-by-step instructions for solving a problem or accomplishing a task.
• Sequencing – Determining the correct order of steps in a problem-solving process.
• Logical Reasoning – Using rational thinking and systematic principles to arrive at a logical conclusion or solve a problem.

Join the Logic Challenge Now!

A Chance to Win Top Tech Prizes

Besides the skills they gain, every participant has a chance to win top tech prizes including Apple Airpods Pro, Nintendo Switch, GoPro Mini, and more. With each challenge kids complete, they’ll earn points and bonuses bringing them closer to these rewards.

Learn more about the bonuses and view all prizes.

How the Logic Challenge Works

1. Join the Challenge – It’s Free

Join the challenge by signing up. Parents can directly register their child. If you are a teacher wanting to get your students registered, please see our teachers page.

2. Complete One Challenge Each Week for 10 Weeks

A new challenge will drop every Monday on our challenge platform and participants will have until Sunday that week to answer the question. The competition will run for 10 weeks with a total of 10 challenges (1 per week).

3. Earn Points for Entries into the Final Prize Drawing

Participants will earn points after each challenge completed. They will also earn bonus multipliers based on attempts, streaks, & quickness. Every 50 points earned gives them 1 entry into the final drawing. See point and multiplier details.

The Logic Challenge for Teachers

Teachers, we have something for you too. Encourage your class to sign up for a chance to win part of $500 in classroom grants. Your students get to participate in a fun, educational activity that builds important skills while giving you a chance to secure extra funding for your classroom. It’s a win-win! 

As soon as you register, you will get a class code to distribute to your students so your entire class can compete individually and as a team. For every 50 points a student earns in the challenges, your class earns one entry into the drawing for the classroom grant. See more details for Logic Challenge Teachers.

So, why wait? The Logic Challenge is free and open to kids and teens, ages 8-18.

Join the Logic Challenge Now!

The post The Spring 2025 Logic Challenge starts February 24 appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

If your vision of coding is one lonely person typing away endlessly on a computer in a dark room, think again! 

With the prevalence of technology in our kids’ lives, coding has become an important educational topic during the 21st century. It plays a part in economic growth, employment opportunities, and innovation. However, there are many rumors and false beliefs that parents still have surrounding this field.

Even the most well-informed parents might fall into the trap of believing these myths. Unfortunately, this can misguide and discourage kids from learning to code. 

But it shouldn’t! Discover why programming is right for all different types of kids and what they can learn from coding.

Let’s set the record straight on these 6 kids coding myths.

6 Kids Coding Myths

Myth 1: Coding is for Math People. 
Myth 2: Coding is for Geniuses.
Myth 3: Coding is for Engineers.
Myth 4: Coding is for Left-Brained People.
Myth 5: Coding is a Lonely Job.
Myth 6: Coding is for Nerdy Boys.

Myth 1: Coding is for Math People. 

Math and programming have a somewhat misunderstood relationship. Many people think that you have to be good at math or make good grades in math class before you can even begin to learn programming. How much math do kids need to know in order to learn to code? Not that much actually.

The truth: While mathematics is the foundation of code, kids only need basic math knowledge to learn coding. 

Some languages and applications require higher-level math skills, like AI or data science, but most developers will never come across these. The majority of their work will not go beyond the math they learn in school. 

One study, by the University of Washington, even found that language aptitude was a stronger predictor of the ability to learn coding in Python than mathematical aptitude. This suggests that language skills are more important than numeracy when it comes to coding. Programming involves understanding and manipulating syntax, logic, and problem-solving within a coding language, which aligns more with language abilities than complex mathematical calculations.

In our coding classes, kids are able to create exciting websites, games, and apps without any complicated math knowledge. Much of the math is handled within the code. Even in the advanced courses, where high school students learn to code databases and APIs, a background in higher-level math is not required. 

Myth 2: Coding is for Geniuses.

Programming is often seen as a scary piece of dark magic, some kind of inaccessible ability. You have to be a child genius with a high IQ or a mathematical wizard to learn how to code. 

The truth: Coding isn’t just for the students at the top of the class! 

Programming focuses on logical thinking and problem-solving but does not necessarily require a high IQ. Kids definitely don’t have to be geniuses to be successful and being a genius doesn’t correlate with being good at programming. The key factors are more about logical thinking, problem-solving skills, dedication to learning, and practice, which any child can develop! 

I see students of all backgrounds and interests in my classes and all of them are able to learn basic programming regardless of how “smart” they seem. More importantly, students who have the commitment, perseverance, and willingness to learn from their mistakes will be successful. In the long run, they also have to have a love of learning because code and technology are always evolving. These characteristics are more important than a high IQ.

Myth 3: Coding is for Engineers.

Only software engineers, or people programming for a living, benefit from learning how to code. The only thing you’re learning is how to write code, but this knowledge and training of how to explore on your own, makes you resourceful— that’s a skill you will need in any field.

The truth: Engineering is just one of many fields where coding is beneficial. 

Kids don’t need to pursue a degree in software engineering to utilize their coding skills. Industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, all rely on technology. Coding should be looked at as a skill rather than a career. 

“Code has become the 4th literacy. Everyone needs to know how our digital world works, not just engineers.” – Mark Surman, Executive Director, Mozilla Foundation

Most of the students in my classes don’t plan to become engineers. Coding may be just one of their interests, but they enjoy it and understand the importance of what code can do. Many times, students apply their coding skills to their own interests and problems, which have nothing to do with engineering. Beyond coding, we teach our students how to solve problems and find creative solutions. Even if they don’t become professional software engineers, they have the skills to navigate difficult problems in any career. 

Myth 4: Coding is for Left-Brained People.

The left and right-brained theory suggests that the two different hemispheres of our brains have distinct functions. The left brain, and coding, are typically associated with language processing, logical reasoning, mathematics, and sequential thinking. Coding seems like a very rigid and structured activity, but it’s actually a great place to express your creativity. 

The truth: The left and right-brained theory has been debunked. 

Research has found that both hemispheres of the brain work together and neither has a significantly stronger network on one side. Certain functions may be more localized to one hemisphere, but both sides are involved in complex tasks and interact constantly. So, there is no such thing as being purely “left-brained” or “right-brained”.

The same is true with coding. While coding involves structured logic, it also demands creative problem-solving, design thinking, and adapting to new situations. Coding is both creative and logical, with both sides working together to create a program. Everything from the design to the features to the written code utilizes creative thinking. Kids who learn to code learn to be creative throughout the entire process. 

Our core coding curriculum was specifically designed in a way that allows kids to express their creativity. All of the projects and themes can be customized and there are many opportunities for kids to work on the creative aspects of programs. Ultimately, creative kids can be just as successful in learning to code as logical kids.

Myth 5: Coding is a Lonely Job.

The misconception is that coding is a solitary activity and only for lone wolves. There’s an idea that coders are isolated, but what we don’t see is a vibrant community behind them.

The truth: Coding is typically done on a team and is a very people-centric activity.

“There’s an enormous amount of negotiation required in software engineering. If you don’t like working with people, you are going to hate programming.” – Danielle Feinberg, Pixar Animation

You’ll find that most of the websites and apps you use, even small ones, are built by a team and not by individuals working in a silo. To bring a video game to life, like Minecraft or Roblox, it takes hundreds of programmers, designers, writers, artists, etc. Kids need to learn how to collaborate with many people from diverse backgrounds to complete a big project. The more they’re exposed to different types of people and their working styles, the better teammate they become as well. Being connected actually works to create better code.

This is part of the reason we teach group classes. Not only do the students learn from one another, they are supported by each other in their efforts to learn. Even outside of class time, in the student forum, my students are working together on homework problems and getting advice from their peers. This type of community helps them become better coders, faster. 

Myth 6: Coding is for Nerdy Boys. 

Technology is a male-dominated field because boys are naturally more suited to excel at coding. This perpetuates the idea that girls are not as capable in computer science. 

The truth: Girls are just as likely to be successful at coding as boys. 

“I love art, I love coding, and now I get to make movies,” said Danielle Feinberg, who earned her B.A. in computer science at Harvard. 

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that boys are inherently better at coding than girls. In fact, research indicates that coding ability is not determined by gender or biological differences. They are more likely due to societal factors like gender stereotypes and exposure to technology. The gender gap in coding indicates a significant gap in STEM and technology fields that starts developing early in education. Girls start to lose interest in coding around elementary school due to societal stereotypes and lack of encouragement.

Many organizations aim to debunk this rumor and bring more girls into coding. We encourage both girls and boys to join our coding programs. Personally, I’ve seen that my female students enjoy coding and are just as good at it as the boys are. Having both men and women in technology and STEM fields also brings different perspectives. We aim to hire an equal number of male and female instructors so that students have diverse role models.

Why should kids learn to code?

The impact of code on our children’s daily lives cannot be denied. Technology will be an important part of their futures and, as a result, coding has become a basic skill for kids. Whether they’re interested in technology and STEM or art and science, they will find learning to code to be a useful skill. 

Learning to code helps them better understand the world around them. It also teaches valuable skills for any future career and builds skills for school and life. It’s an excellent way to learn soft skills, like creativity, confidence, and communication, that are hugely important for kids to thrive in the future. Moreover, it helps them become creators and not simply consumers. Regardless of the career they choose, coding will give them the skills to succeed.

Not convinced? See 26 reasons learning to code benefits your child. 

The truth? Any child can learn to code! 

Don’t let these misconceptions hold your child back. The truth is that any child can learn how to code with the right support and tools. 

Our program at CodeWizardsHQ is designed to be the most fun and effective coding classes for kids in elementary, middle, and high school. The structured curriculum engages kids on their level, so they’re excited about what they can do with code. Through coding, kids develop problem-solving, logical reasoning, and computational thinking skills. As they advance, kids go from complete beginners to coding pros. 

Find out if coding is right for your child. View coding programs to get started. 

The post 6 Kids Coding Myths You Shouldn’t Believe appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Healthy competition is a great way to motivate students to work hard and try their best. For teens learning how to code, high school computer science competitions are an exciting way to challenge themselves, explore their interests in technology, and gain valuable experiences that benefit them both academically and personally.

Whether your child is studying computer science in school or one of our coding classes, it’s a benefit to apply their skills outside of the classroom setting to see if they will translate and find places to improve. Competing is also something that students can add to their college application to show their passion and dedication. Working on a team is a chance to meet like-minded friends and learn from them. 

Depending on their skills and interests, there are several different competitions they can join. These 13 are our top picks for computer science competitions for high school students.

13 Computer Science Competitions for High School Students

1. USA Computing Olympiad (USACO)
2. The National Youth Cyber Defense Competition
3. Microsoft Imagine Cup
4. NASA App Development Challenge
5. MIT THINK Scholars Program
6. Technovation Girls Challenge
7. Congressional App Challenge
8. FIRST Robotics Competition
9. VEX robotics competition
10. Girls Programming League Challenge
11. HPE CodeWars
12. Stanford ProCo
13. Bebras

1. USA Computing Olympiad (USACO)

Virtual | Free

The USA Computing Olympiad is a competition created to find the best students for the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI), the most prestigious international computing contest at the high school level, as well as the European Girls’ Olympiad in Informatics (EGOI). Based on the results of the web-based contests throughout the year, approximately two dozen students are invited as finalists to the training camp, hosted at Clemson University. Camp culminates in the selection of 4 students to represent the USA at the IOI and EGOI

There are typically four algorithmic programming competitions during the academic year from December through early spring. Depending on your child’s coding experience, the questions are offered in four divisions for novice (Bronze) to advanced students (Platinum). Students answer the questions individually and responses are submitted in C, C++, Python or Java. There are example problems and solutions from past competitions here.

Why compete: There are no cash prizes, but the possibility of being on the national team is a big accomplishment. The questions are also great practice for coding students.

2. The National Youth Cyber Defense Competition 

Virtual | Paid

The National Youth Cyber Defense Competition, hosted by CyberPatriot, puts teams of 2-6 students in the position of newly hired IT professionals managing the network of a small company. Teams are given virtual operating systems and have to compete in multiple rounds to find and fix cybersecurity vulnerabilities while maintaining critical services. Each team, with the support of a coach and mentor, has to complete two challenges during their six-hour competition period: The Network Security Challenge and The Cisco Networking Challenge. 

The competition provides access to 12 training modules and 4 practice rounds before the scored competition kicks off. They have access to archived training materials on the public side of the website. The top teams in the nation win a trip to the National Finals Competition. There they earn national recognition and scholarship money, like $50,000 from Northrop Grumman. 

Why compete: There are very few competitions that cover cybersecurity in-depth. The structure of this competition provides a lot of training, education, and practice along with mentorship. 

3. Imagine Cup 

Virtual | Free

The Imagine Cup is hosted by Microsoft and helps student founders turn their innovative ideas into market-ready startups. This competition is for high school and college students ages 18 and up. In this competition, students compete virtually in teams of up to . They are challenged to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Microsoft Cloud to build a startup. They get the freedom to create any solution they are passionate about, but it must include at least one Microsoft AI service and consider diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. 

Students compete in multiple rounds including the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Round, Semifinals Round, and World Championship. Through each round, teams will improve their product and gain benefits including access to Azure credits and industry-leading AI services, mentorship, and guidance. The winners of the World Championship will receive $100,000 USD and an exclusive mentoring session with Microsoft Chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella. 

Why compete: For entrepreneurs, the large cash prize provides the ability to fund their dream business and get support from mentors at Microsoft.

4. NASA App Development Challenge

In-person | Free

The App Development Challenge (ADC) is a coding challenge in which NASA presents technical problems to middle and high school students seeking student contributions to deep space exploration missions. As long as it can be completed in one semester with a $1,000 budget, almost anything is fair game! 

Students compete in teams of at least 5 students led by a Lead Teacher. In this year’s challenge, teams of middle school or high school teams had 10 weeks to create a video showcasing their application visualizing the flight path of Artemis II, while indicating which of SCaN’s antennas are available to communicate with Earth in real-time. Teams advance to present their app in an interview with NASA subject matter experts from the SCaN team. NASA will select the top teams for a culminating event experience in April. Use any programming language (Java, C#, C++, Scratch, etc.) to complete development of an application.

Why compete: This competition focuses on space exploration and students win the opportunity to meet NASA professionals.

5. MIT THINK Scholars Program

In-person and Virtual | Free

The THINK program (Technology for Humanity guided by Innovation, Networking, and Knowledge) is organized by undergraduates at MIT and aims to provides mentorship, funding, and resources to high school students working on science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) projects. Rather than requiring students to have completed a research project before applying, THINK caters to students who have done extensive research on the background of a potential research project, but lack the resources to complete the project themselves.

To compete, students have to identify a problem and write an essay as well as a proposal pitching the project and how it can solve the problem. Selected finalists have weekly mentorship meetings with THINK team members for technical guidance, helpful resources, and updates on the projects progress and are given up to $1,000 in funding for their project. Finalists from 2023 worked on projects like Wall-Climbing Robot in Disaster Zones and Echo: A Sound Solution For Mapping and Navigation in Firefighting.

Why compete: An opportunity for students to fund the app or research they are already passionate about.

6. Technovation Girls Challenge

Virtual | Free 

This global competition inspires girls (participants who identify as female, trans, non-binary, or gender nonconforming), ages 8 to 18, to make a difference in their communities using technology. Working in teams of 1 to 5, girls find a problem in their community and build a mobile or web app to help solve it. In 2024, students tackled problems like Climate change, domestic violence, financial independence, and accessibility. Along the way, these girls develop their collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

High school students can compete in the Junior Division (13-15 years old) or Senior Division (16-18 years old). Generally, the submissions include a pitch video, technical video, business plan, and mobile or web app source code. Judges then select 15 finalist teams from around the world to attend Technovation’s World Summit in person. Finalist teams will receive a $500/person educational stipend. At the global World Summit event, judges will select 3 Grand Prize Winners and each member of the Grand Prize winning teams will receive a $750/person educational stipend.

Why compete: Teens can win money for school while addressing real problems and making a difference in their community.

7. Congressional App Challenge

Virtual | Free 

The Congressional App Challenge is a district-wide competition hosted by members of Congress for middle school and high school students, encouraging them to learn to code and inspiring them to pursue careers in computer science. The competition is available in participating districts and engages students from communities that are traditionally underrepresented in the tech community. The Congressional App Challenge is also transforming how Congress members view and advocate for computer science and STEM.

Students register as individuals or as teams of up to four to submit an original app, written in any programming language, that addresses a problem locally, nationally, or globally. U.S. Representatives publicly recognize the winning teams and each winning app may be put on display in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year along with additional prizes. 

Why compete: This is a prestigious award and while it focuses on app development, there is a lot of room for creativity. Teens can address problems and be recognized nationally.

8. FIRST Robotics Competition

In-person or Virtual | Paid 

FIRST is one of the most popular robotics competitions for high school students, ages 14-18. Teams practice year-round for the competition. Starting with a Kit of Parts, teams of high school students design, program, and build industrial-sized robots to play an action-packed game. They compete on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance in the spirit of Coopertition, meaning that teams help and cooperate with each other even as they compete.

These competitions combine the excitement of a sporting event with the rigors of science and technology. Teams are made of two adult mentors and 10 or more high school-aged students. Each FIRST Robotics Competition team also creates a team identity, raises funds to meet its goals, and advances appreciation for STEM in its community. The FIRST Robotics Competition season culminates with district and regional events where qualifying teams compete for awards and a spot at the FIRST Championship. Instead of a cash reward, the competition features a variety of awards recognizing different aspects of a team’s performance, including engineering, design, teamwork, community outreach, and leadership.

Why compete: No cash prize, but this is a fun team sport that develops both coding and robotics skills. It’s a good year-round versus one-off activity. 

9. VEX robotics competition

In-person or Virtual | Paid

The VEX V5 Robotics Competition is for students in grades 6-12. This competition prepares students to become future innovators and increase their interest in STEM and related careers. During a VEX Robotics competition, teams of students compete by designing, building, and programming robots to play a specific game on a designated field. They are usually paired into alliances to work together against other alliances, aiming to score the most points by completing tasks within a set time limit.

Tournaments are held in person year-round at the regional, state, and national levels and culminate at the VEX Robotics World Championship! Standard matches are comprised of two alliances of two teams each playing against each other. There are also unique contests using CAD, animation, essays, and more for students who want to participate virtually. 

Why compete: For a robotics competition, it is accessible and beginner-friendly with simpler robot designs.

10. Girls Programming League Challenge 

Virtual | Free

The Girls Programming League Challenge is a competition aimed at inspiring and empowering high school and middle school females to learn computer science and STEM. It’s a one-day virtual event including a 2-hour competition session in the morning and keynote speeches and panel discussions in the afternoon. This past challenge included speakers Katelyn Sweeney from SpaceX and Dr. Jessie Christiansen from NASA to give a female perspective on the state of computer science and astronomy.

Students compete in teams of 1-3 people in either the Novice or Advanced division. In each division, the contest will consist of 10 algorithmic programming problems of varying difficulty to be solved in 2 hours using Java, Python or C++. Awards of up to $100 per team member are given to the winning teams.

Why compete? While there is a small cash prize, this challenge includes a lot of training and advice that the others don’t by hosting speakers and panel discussions.

11. HPE CodeWars

In-person or Virtual | Free

Hewlett Packard Enterprise hosts the CodeWars competition for high school students, ages 13-18. This event combines a high-tech setting, a wide range of programming challenges, plenty of programmer food, music, plus giveaways – all in an exciting, stimulating, and competitive environment. This competition requires beginner knowledge of coding. So, if a student cannot get a “hello world” program to compile and run on their own, they are not ready to be placed on a CodeWars team yet. 

Teams are sponsored by a teacher, or a school-affiliated person, and can enter in the Novice or Advanced division. During the competition, teams of 2-3 students, answer coding problems with the goal of solving as many problems as possible in 3 hours. Each problem carries a point value, with values increasing with problem difficulty. At the end, the teams with the most points win! Submissions can be written in C, C++, Java, and Python 3. Winners are awarded trophies, media recognition, and an opportunity for fun projects. Everyone has the chance to win items from a list of products worth $15,000!

Why compete: This competition is all about the code so it’s helpful for students who want to focus on developing their programming skills.

12. Stanford ProCo 

In-person | Free

ProCo is a computer programming contest for high school students in the style of the college-level ACM-ICPC (International Collegiate Programming Contest). The competition aims to provide a fun and engaging opportunity for high school students in the Bay Area to explore their passion for computer science.

The ProCo, like the ICPC, is a timed competition where teams of up to three students solve real-world problems using algorithmic solutions. The ProCo lasts 3 hours and consists of 9 – 15 unweighted problems. The contest is split into two separate divisions: Novice and Advanced. Students can provide answers in either of these four languages: C, C++, Java, and Python 3+. Depending on the competition, there may be prizes and raffles, including laptops, headphones, chairs, and more. 

Why compete: Teens can experience a college-level competition and interact with Stanford computer science students.

13. Bebras

In-person | Free 

Bebras is an international initiative aiming to promote Informatics (Computer Science, or Computing) and computational thinking among school students from 6 to 18. The challenge is coordinated by a teacher and takes place in the classroom. There are six different age categories, each with a set of tasks to keep things exciting and challenging. High school students can compete as Cadets (age 12-14), Juniors (age 14-16), or Seniors (age 16-18). 

During the competition, each group will get 3 sets of 5 tasks. The 3 sets each have a level of difficulty: easy, medium, or hard. They will have 45 minutes to complete as many tasks as they can. The tasks can all be completed without any preparation or studying. In some regions, there are regional finals. The best students from each age group are invited to spend a day at a university working on more exciting tasks. Teachers can reward the students with a certificate of achievement.

Why compete: Get a solid introduction to computation thinking for beginners and does not require any coding experience.

What to look for in a computer science competition?

There’s likely a computer science competition that will match your child’s interest. Consider these criteria when deciding which is best:

• Individual vs group competitions: Would your child prefer to work with a team or try it on their own? Some competitions allow students to compete individually while others require more than 2 to compete. 
• Coding languages used: Most competitions outline a few languages that students can use in the competition. Teens will want to align their experience with these guidelines. For example, students who are studying JavaScript may not have the coding skills for a Python-based competition.
• Sponsor or mentor required: Your child might also need support from sponsors or mentors to compete. While it’s always nice to have, some competitions require a school or adult team sponsor to participate. This is often a teacher or other school-related adult.
• Skill Level: Most competitions are broken down by age, but others are solely on skill level. Consider your child’s coding skill level and what the competition requires. If your child has just started, a challenge for a completed app may be above their skill level. 
• Format: There are competitions that take place both online and in person, depending on what your teen prefers. A few have initial levels virtually and semifinals or finals in person. 
• Cost: Free competitions are available, but others have costs including registration fees, training materials, travel costs, or event supplies. Teens may want to start with free competitions to gauge their interest.

Why should teens participate in a coding competition?

High school students who are learning how to code will benefit a lot from participating in coding competitions. Students have the opportunity to take their skills outside of the classroom and put them to the test. This competitive environment is just what it takes for students to learn from each other and challenge themselves. They also explore their interests in technology and gain valuable experiences that benefit them both academically and personally.

1. Expand Their Knowledge

Learning to code means constantly expanding your knowledge and a coding competition can do just that. Coding competitions expose teens to real-world problems, teaching new concepts and solidifying old ones. It is a hands-on opportunity to practice coding languages and apply them outside of the classroom. Some competitions also provide learning opportunities and teaching modules or keynote speakers for kids to participate in.

2. Build Their  Skills

Computer science competitions typically emphasize logical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork to tackle challenges. Teens apply the skills they learn while coding to a bigger project. In timed competitions, there’s also the added pressure to solve problems quickly and effectively. Coding competitions put the textbook lessons to practice. It’s a chance to apply the knowledge that teens learn in a practical way.

3. Meet New People

In coding competition, just like the real-world, coding isn’t done alone. At competitions, teens can network and collaborate with peers and mentors. Through these events they build relationships that often go beyond just learning to code. Coding competitions bring together students, mentors, and industry professionals, fostering valuable connections.

4. Add to College Applications

Colleges are seeking high school students who demonstrate their initiative, drive, and passion. Competing in coding challenges shows admissions officers that teens are bringing these skills to their school as well as a love of learning. This is a great way to distinguish one student from other applicants.

5. Learn Teamwork

Many computer science competitions require teamwork, helping students improve communication, leadership, and collaborative problem-solving skills. These skills are important for school and in the workforce. 

6. Win Scholarships and Prizes

Of course, you can’t forget the prizes! These range from scholarships to cash prizes to trips. Students can also win certificates, trophies, or even opportunities to present at prestigious events. While the biggest benefit of the coding competitions is the skills teens will learn, the additional prizes are just the cherry on top. 

Learn Computer Science in High School

These computer science competitions all offer a unique educational opportunity for high school students. Pick the competition that most interests your teen to get started! 
If your high school student has no experience coding but wants to compete, start their journey in our top-rated coding classes for kids.

Our coding program features a structured curriculum where students build on their skills as they advance. In the high school coding program, teens learn to build websites, apps, and games in Python and JavaScript. They also engage in problem-solving, computational thinking, and They’ll learn the skills they need to compete and have the support of our community behind them. View programs and enroll today.

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Some people believe that coding will be obsolete in the next decade. They believe that with the development of AI technologies, the need for human developers will no longer exist. However, many everyday essentials require code, so it’s unlikely that coding (or the developers that write it) will ever go extinct!

But, it may not always be obvious how code is being used around you. We take a lot of these everyday things powered by code for granted. It’s especially important for kids to understand so they can interact safely with the world around them. When kids ask how code is used, point out these 10 things that don’t work without code. It’s a great time to emphasize how important coding is to the world around us!

10 Everyday Essentials that Depend on Code

1. Internet
2. Social media
3. Smartphones
4. Email
5. Streaming
6. Game consoles
7. Tablets
8. GPS & Navigation
9. Video conferencing
10. Smart assistants

1. Internet

The internet is an obvious one! We use the internet every day at home, at work, and on the go. In 2024, internet users globally spent an average of six hours and 36 minutes online daily (Statista). What are we using the internet for? Social networking, finding information, watching videos, shopping, and much more. The internet powers more than websites though, it’s also a larger network infrastructure that allows various services emails, games, file sharing, and more. 

The internet is built on a foundation of code, so without code, there is no internet. Code underpins internet protocols like HTTP, TCP/IP, and DNS to enable communication between devices. Programming languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, which we teach in our coding classes, create websites and interactive user experiences. As coding languages improve, the internet has become faster, more accessible, and scalable.

2. Social media

Social media is a place for people to share information, connect, and communicate online. It has allowed us to access information in real-time and build relationships with people and brands in a more personal way. All social media platforms, like Instagram and Facebook, are entirely built on code. 

Whether they’re websites or apps, social media doesn’t exist without code. Algorithms and artificial intelligence help personalize the experience on social media and show users content based on their preferences and interests. Code also ensures photos, videos, and posts are stored and delivered efficiently so we can browse and scroll without interruption.

3. Smartphones

Smartphones revolutionized communication starting in the early 90’s and have become ubiquitous in modern society. Even among children, smartphone usage is pervasive. For example, over half of children in the U.S. have their own smartphone by the age of 11. A smartphone differs from a cellphone in that it has more advanced features, including web browsing, software applications, and a mobile OS. The modern smartphone can accomplish tasks like video conferencing, biometric scanning, augmented reality, and more. 

These “smart features” are all written by developers in various coding languages. Smartphones combine the functions of several traditional devices such as a computer, a camera, and a telephone, into one compact device. These connections are powered by code.

4. Email

Our lives have been improved significantly by having the fast and convenient communication of email. We can stay in touch with family and friends as well as keep up with business in a cost-effective manner. Email saves time and money on printing, postage, and delivery and has revolutionized how we communicate and keep records.

Email platforms are all internet-based and therefore use code. Certain code protocols are specific to emails like SMTP, POP, and IMAP for sending and receiving messages. There are also security protocols to ensure your secure and private communications. 

5. Streaming

A streaming service is an online platform that allows users to watch or listen to content over the internet, without having to download it. What’s great about streaming is the speed and the flexibility of being able to consume media. Services like Netflix and Spotify have transformed how we consume content and entertainment from binge-watching to on-demand.

Streaming services are built on code and every aspect of the platform will use code. Developers use programming languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript to handle tasks on the platform that provide a seamless experience for users. This includes video encoding, data analysis, user interface design, content delivery, and complex algorithms. Code is used to deliver the content and personalize recommendations on the platform. 

6. Game consoles

A game console is a device that allows users to play video games on a screen. The console can usually be connected to a television or some are handheld with a built-in screen. Popular consoles today include the Playstation, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox. Game consoles are similar to computers and are designed specifically to deliver a great gaming experience.

Even the original game consoles like Nintendo relied heavily on using code. The difference being that those consoles used very low-level code that had limited processing power and memory. Since then the technology in gaming consoles has developed to more high-level languages. Today’s consoles use powerful game engines and are supported on multiple platforms due to the evolution of coding. Code is used to render realistic graphics and animations. 

7. Tablets

Tablets are portable touchscreen devices that fall somewhere in between a smartphone and a computer. Tablets were originally created as smaller, mobile laptops. The iPad created a new category of devices and revolutionized the way people could interact with digital content. For kids, tablets have made play and education so convenient and easy on-the-go.

The hardware design was a large part of the popularity of the tablet, but the operating system and applications found on your tablet are written using code. Code is also the foundation of the tablets’ accessibility. They have a variety of features that can be customized to meet the needs of people with different abilities. For example, screen readers can help the visually impaired by reading out the text, menus, and icons on the screen, allowing users to interact with the device without seeing it. 

8. GPS & Navigation

GPS (Global Positioning System) and navigation provide us with real-time directions using satellites. A system of 30+ navigation satellites circling Earth regularly emit signals that are picked up by our phones. When you use Google Maps or Uber, your phone (or other GPS receiver) calculates the distance to the satellite to determine your location. 

While GPS is independent of the internet, it is still code-based. The most commonly used language is Python, particularly in conjunction with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) where it’s used for tasks like spatial analysis, data manipulation, and visualization. There are also algorithms that calculate the best, fastest routes based on real-time traffic data.

9. Video Calls

Video calls have become ubiquitous after the global pandemic. They use the internet to facilitate live communication through audio and video. We now make video calls on our computers, phones, and tablets. Video calls are used personally and professionally, for everything from entertainment to education. It’s a way for people to connect globally, face to face.

In apps like Zoom and Microsoft teams, code ensures smooth video and audio transmission between callers. Privacy is also an important part of video calling, so there is encryption code to protect user data during calls. Tools like screen sharing and virtual whiteboards have made collaboration and creation a unique part of video calls.

10. Smart assistants

Smart assistants, like Siri and Alexa, are developed using artificial intelligence to respond to voice commands and perform tasks. They make life easier by helping us with things like grocery shopping, finding new information, and making daily routines more efficient.

Code is used to implement the AI, respond to queries, and perform actions in smart assistants. Algorithms enable the AI to adapt to user preferences over time. Code is also what connects the smart assistant to other devices and apps. 

The Impact of Code on Our Lives

Could we live without code? 

Of course, there was a time when we did. But in the 21st century, technologies based on computer science have had a profound impact on our lives and it’s hard to imagine life without it.

Communication has been transformed.

Connecting with friends and family through email, instant messaging, and video calls wouldn’t be possible without code. We have more access to information than ever on the internet and through social media. We’ve been able to connect globally in an instant.

Improved existing industries.

Industries like healthcare, finance, and manufacturing have made improvements in leaps and bounds using new technologies. In healthcare, code powers diagnostic tools, medical devices, and health monitoring apps. Through these technologies, they are able to personalize medical care and improve outcomes.

Enhanced education and learning.

E-learning platforms, educational apps, and virtual classrooms have made education more fun, accessible, and individualized. Kids can now learn at their own pace with lessons tailored to their individual needs. 

Explore Coding for Kids

As you can see, code is all around us and powers many of the technologies we use every day. Even for kids who don’t want to make coding a career, it’s a useful and beneficial skill to have. 

Learning live with expert instructors is one of the best ways for kids to develop this essential skill. Our online coding classes introduce kids to coding in a fun and engaging way. Kids, ages 8-18, can learn programming languages like Scratch and Python through a project-based curriculum that keeps them motivated.

Join our top-rated coding classes for kids. 

The post 10 Everyday Essentials That Depend on Code appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Ever since STEM was coined by the National Science Foundation in 2001, the U.S. has aimed to expand and improve STEM education. STEM isn’t just a buzzword though, educating our students in STEM has surprising benefits for individuals, communities, and the global economy.  

As a result, the value of a STEM education goes far beyond the classroom. It’s so important that there have been national initiatives to increase STEM proficiency among US students. 

Besides the obvious technical skills students gain, let’s discuss 10 surprising benefits of STEM education.

What is a STEM education? 

STEM is an acronym for “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics”. STEM education is an interdisciplinary approach to learning that focuses on applying these subjects to solve real-world problems through hands-on, project-based learning. Studying STEM equips students with skills essential for excelling in the 21st-century regardless of whether they go into STEM fields. It also prepares them for rapidly changing technology and advancements in various fields.

Science includes fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. These fields focus on understanding the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis. For students, science encourages curiosity about phenomena and fosters evidence-based reasoning. 

Technology includes topics like computer science, programming, digital literacy, and robotics.

In technology fields, students study and application of tools, systems, and software to solve problems. Unlike pure science, which focuses on research and understanding natural phenomena, technology focuses on using that knowledge to create practical solutions.

Engineering teaches the design, building, and maintenance of structures, machines, and systems. Students use their creativity and innovation to address challenges like sustainability and infrastructure development. Engineering has a foundation in science and uses technology, like computer-aided design (CAD), as a tool to solve problems.

Mathematics is the science of numbers and their operations, interrelations, combinations, generalizations, and abstractions. Learning math helps students develop logical reasoning, problem-solving, and quantitative analysis skills as well as understand and apply patterns, data, and formulas. Math forms the foundation for other STEM topics and many advancements in technology, engineering, and scientific discoveries.

STEM education encourages students to approach problems methodically, analyze data, and test hypotheses. This framework of thinking, developed as they study the core disciplines, is then transferable to other areas of life.

The State of STEM Education in the US

The state of STEM education in the United States is important because we need to prepare future generations with technological expertise. Unfortunately, the U.S. appears to be falling behind other countries like Japan and China. The cumulative data points to this including low international rankings in Math and Science, more than 1 million unfilled STEM jobs, and low access to STEM education. 

Several factors stand in the way of improved STEM education, such as costs, accessibility, equity, and qualified instructors. Technology and programming are just one example. According to Code.org, only 60% of public high schools currently offer foundational computer science. This is even lower for middle and elementary schools, so students are forced to seek outside activities and classes to learn STEM skills. In other countries, particularly Europe and East Asia, coding is a core topic and students are taught the basics in primary school.

Without STEM education, we experience a skills gap in the workforce, difficulty adapting to technological change, reduced problem-solving, and much more.

10 Surprising Benefits of a STEM Education

Why consider STEM education for your child? Familiarity with STEM topics is beneficial even for elementary school students. STEM activities nurture kids’ curiosity, encouraging them to ask questions, experiment, and discover the world around them.

These surprising benefits make a STEM education worthwhile and important for kids:

1. Build Resilience and Adaptability

STEM projects often involve trial and error. By learning to embrace failure as part of the process, students develop resilience and adaptability. These are the qualities essential for thriving in a rapidly changing world. When met with difficult challenges, STEM students have resilience and are able to keep pushing forward despite setbacks. 

In coding, kids build resilience through debugging code errors. They apply a problem-solving and critical thinking framework to find a solution and learn not to give up along the way. Our students take pride in overcoming difficult situations and being successful in the end.

2. Improve Technical literacy

An education in STEM equips students with the foundational skills, knowledge, and the right mindset to engage with technology and its applications. It means kids won’t be scared of technology or be taken advantage by it.

Once our students start to understand coding and how programs work, they are able to see how programming is being used all around them. They approach technology with a better understanding, can type and communicate better, and easily adopt new technology.

3. Prepare for the Workforce

STEM careers often come with competitive salaries and job security. According to U.S. News, eight of the top 10 STEM jobs come with annual salaries above $100,000. Fields like software development, engineering, data science, and biotechnology are among the highest-paying professions globally.

Even without going into a STEM field, kids develop skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork that apply to jobs in any field. 

4. Economic Growth and Job Creation

The demand for STEM professionals continues to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM jobs are projected to grow 10.4% between 2023 and 2033, compared to 3.6% in non-STEM jobs. By fostering STEM education, we prepare students to fill these important jobs while driving economic progress.

Many STEM fields require specialized technical skills, and STEM education aligns with industry needs by teaching students to use professional-grade tools, software, and methodologies. This preparation ensures that students are ready to contribute to the workforce.

5. Drive Technological Advancements

STEM education fuels technological innovation which improves quality of life. Not only that, it contributes to technological advancements from medical breakthroughs to renewable energy solutions. STEM graduates often lead advancements that benefit society as a whole.

With coding, humans have been able to create new technologies like the internet, robots, and artificial intelligence. Our students have all kinds of ideas for things they would like to invent and with the coding and STEM skills, they can do it.

6. Promote Inclusivity and Diversity

Efforts to make STEM accessible to underrepresented groups—such as women, minorities, and economically disadvantaged students—help bridge social gaps. A diverse STEM workforce brings varied perspectives, driving creativity and innovation.

Our students are worldwide and I am always learning new things about their different cultures and interests. Our group classes allow kids to work together and experience new ideas together. Kids are exposed to a diverse range of their peers.

7. Encourage Curiosity and Exploration

Children are naturally inquisitive and like to explore. STEM activities nurture this curiosity, encouraging them to ask questions, experiment, and discover the world around them. STEM is hands-on in nature and encourages kids to 

During class, kids are encouraged to ask questions and go beyond the lessons. Students who want to do personal projects can use the CodeWizardsHQ platform to host their files and launch their own programs. 

8. Bridge the Gender Gap

There is a large gap between the number of men and women in the STEM fields. Women are underrepresented, holding less than 30% of science and engineering jobs worldwide. Encouraging girls to engage with STEM from an early age helps close this gap, fostering a more inclusive workforce.

More women in STEM as role models will motivate young girls to pursue a STEM education as well. We hire a diverse set of instructors, including men and women, to teach our students, bringing their unique experiences and perspectives. 

9. Encourage Lifelong Learning

STEM instills a growth mindset, motivating individuals to continually learn and adapt. This mindset is crucial in a world where technological advancements require ongoing upskilling. 

Kids must become lifelong learners in order to work with technology and coding. We teach our students that programmers don’t learn a language and stop learning. The languages themselves evolve and so they must too. Good programmers stay up to date on the latest technology and standards which means a lifetime of continuous learning. 

10. Promote Entrepreneurial Skills

Being entrepreneurial is about being a problem-solver, a clear communicator, a team leader, a visionary, taking risks, pursuing a passion, and so much more.

Many STEM graduates have the skills to become innovators and launch businesses that drive economic growth and technological advancement. Besides the technical skills, they also possess the soft skills to build relationships and manage projects.

These 26 reasons learning to code benefits kids also applies to other STEM topics.

Explore Coding as a Part of Your STEM Education

Coding is a STEM topic that gives kids all of these benefits and more. Our students are developing these skills as they learn to code, so they will be well-prepared for a tech-focused future.

If your child is interested in exploring STEM in a fun and engaging way, coding could be right for them. In our top-rated coding program, kids and teens build projects and advance their skills in every class. Elementary school students start their journey with Scratch while middle and high school students learn Python first. Not only will kids acquire pro-level coding skills, they will gain the benefits of a STEM education.

Get to know our top-rated coding classes for kids and enroll today!

The post 10 Surprising Benefits of STEM Education appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

The Scratch pen tool is a fun extension to any Scratch project and teaches kids about conditionals and events. Scratch coding is a great way to introduce fundamental coding concepts to kids and teens. Once they have the basics down, Scratch is powerful enough to make robust apps and games. The pen tool is especially great for creative and drawing projects.

Kids who want to dive in and develop their Scratch skills can learn live from expert instructors. Take a look at our top-rated Scratch classes for kids.

In this article, I’ll show you how to setup the pen tool and creative ways to use it in your project.

What does the pen tool do? 

The Pen tool acts like a digital pen where users can draw, create patterns, and make interactive graphics directly on the Scratch canvas. A mouse or a sprite acts as a pen and draws a line from its center. The Pen can be used to draw simple shapes and lines all the way up to using loops and conditionals to draw complex images and patterns. 

It’s a fun way for kids to enhance their projects. My students especially enjoy the pen projects because they love being able to draw freehand. The Pen tool is often used for creative projects, such as designing art, animating visual effects, or building interactive activities like drawing apps.

Set Up the Pen Tool in Scratch

The Pen blocks are not one of the standard blocks in Scratch so it needs to be added as an extension. To do that, follow these simple steps:

1. Visit scratch.mit.edu
2. Login to your Scratch account
3. Click on the Create button

4. Under the blocks, click Add an Extension

5. Select Pen

Once you’ve applied the extension, you should see a new set of blocks in the block palette called Pen. These blocks will control the Pen application in your project.

Pen Blocks in Scratch

There are a just a handful of Pen blocks, but they can accomplish a lot! 

• erase all
• stamp
• pen up
• pen down
• set pen color to [color]
• change pen color by [number]
• set pen color to [number]
• change pen size by [size]

erase all: Clears all drawings made with the pen tool on the stage. It erases everything drawn without affecting the backdrop or sprites themselves. 

stamp: Copies the current look of the sprite onto the stage as a static image. It’s often used with “Pen Down” and “Pen Up” to create patterns, tiled images, or animated scenes.

pen up: Lifts the pen off the stage, stopping any drawing until “pen down” is used again. This is helpful for moving a sprite without drawing a line.

pen down: This command starts drawing whenever the sprite moves. It’s used to make continuous lines as the sprite moves across the stage.

set pen color to [color]: Allows users to change the color of the pen. This is often used to add colorful designs and drawings.

change pen color by [number]: Adjusts the current color of the pen by a specific value, which can create color gradients or rainbow effects as the sprite draws.

set pen color to [number]: Adjusts the current color of the pen by a specific value, which can create color gradients or rainbow effects as the sprite draws.

change pen size by [size]: Sets the thickness of the pen line. Larger values make thicker lines, which can be useful for emphasizing parts of a drawing.

set pen size to [size] Sets the thickness of the pen line. Larger values make thicker lines, which can be useful for emphasizing parts of a drawing.

Fun Ways to Use the Pen in Scratch

Using the pen tool is kind of like drawing on paper, with a twist. By combining the pen blocks with loops, variables, and other blocks, kids can create all kinds of art and animations. These are just some of the cool things you can do with the pen tool. 

• Draw freehand
• Draw shapes with math
• Customize pen colors/width
• Use variables
• Animation
• 3D
• Using loops with the pen tool

Draw Freehand

You can use any sprite as a pen and draw with it. If you want it to look like you’re drawing with your mouse, simply hide the sprite. This code allows you to draw when your mouse is clicked. You can also set the pen color and size. 

Example project: Paint App

Our student, Kiera, created this simple painting app where the user can make multiple brush selections.

View project

Draw Shapes (with Math)

There are several ways to draw shapes using the pen tool. You can simply use a series of blocks to guide your sprite. Using math, you can build shapes quickly and easily.

To create any shape you need to know:

• Number of sides: Decide how many sides your shape will have (e.g., 3 for a triangle, 4 for a square).
• Angle to turn: Calculate the angle for each turn using the formula: Angle=360∘/Number of sides

For example, this code will draw a triangle with 3 sides that are each 100 pixels. The number of sides is 3 and the angle to turn is 120. Set your sprite to start at the beginning of the shape.

Example project: Pen Shape Drawer

In this app, users can choose the number of shapes, sides, and the size of the lines to generate a drawing. 

View project

Customize pen colors and size

Add your own style and creativity to your project by customizing the pen color and sizes. You can use the “set pen color to” block with an RGB color and “set pen size to” block with a number of pixels. You can even use variables and loops to change these features as you’re drawing with the “change pen color to” and “change pen size to” blocks.

This code draws a 5px line in turquoise when the pen is down:

Example project: Pen Paint

The Pen Paint app uses buttons to controls the size and color of the pen to create beautiful drawings.

View project

Use variables

Using a variable makes your application more flexible and robust. Allow users to select the color and size for the pen dynamically. You can also change the color and size with code as you draw. By adding variables the possibilities are endless.

Set the pen’s thickness based on a number variable with this code:

Example project: Paint App

Our student, Kiera, created this painting app that takes user input and has buttons to create shapes with a click.

View project

Animation

The pen tool can draw shapes and change the size and color of the pen dynamically. This makes it possible to create unique effects in your program. 

This code creates an ongoing circle animation using the pen tool:

Example project: Pen Animation #1 Tutorial

Watch this colorful and entrancing animation that uses just a few pen blocks. 

View project

Using loops with the pen tool

You can use loops in combination with the pen tool to create cool drawings and effects. Create complex shapes using the loop blocks. This code repeats a hexagon drawing to create a unique new shape.

Example project: Fruit Ninja

Fruit Ninja is a student favorite where we cut the fruit using a line drawn with the pen tool. 

View project

3D Drawings

The pen tool can also be used to make 3D drawings. Even though Scratch doesn’t provide tools specifically for creating 3D art, a combination of existing blocks and the pen tool can help you create the illusion of 3D graphics.

One way is to create multiple layers with stamps, to create a 3d effect. We applied this to create a 3d block.

Example project: 3D Maze Rendering

Go beyond the flat 2D drawings and render 3D graphics with the pen tool.

See project

Project Ideas Using the Pen Tool 

Do you need some inspiration for your first pen project? You’d be surprised at everything the pen tool can do. Check out some of the most loved Scratch pen projects:

• Pen football (23431 Hearts)
• Pen Platformer (14839 Hearts)
• 100% Pen Bloons Tower-Defense (10067 Hearts)
• Butterfly (7057 Hearts)
• RACE! (pen) (5710 Hearts)
• Mysterious Pen (5698 Hearts)
• Shufflepuck (5211 Hearts)
• Pen designs (4334 Hearts)
• Sky run (4192 Hearts)

Download Free Printable Scratch Coding Tutorials PDF

Get the Rocketship Landing game and Flying Space Cat Scratch tutorials in a printable format.

Learn to Code Games in Scratch 

The pen tool is just one type of extension in Scratch. Besides the basic blocks like Controls, Motion, and Variables, there are extensions that use artificial intelligence, text-to-speech, and video sensing. Kids can learn to code in Scratch with these extensions and more in our Elementary School Core Track.

In our elementary school coding program, kids, ages 8-10, use Scratch to learn fundamental coding concepts. With a solid foundation in programming concepts, they can then advance to text-based languages like JavaScript and Python.

If you want support teaching your child to code, enroll in our top-rated Scratch coding classes.

The post Fun Ways to Use the Pen Tool in Scratch appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Fortnite, an online video game platform, has become one of the most popular among kids and teens, so parents should get familiar with it as well.

The most popular game is a multiplayer shooting game called Fortnite: Battle Royal. In 2024, it was the top battle royale game on Twitch and YouTube, with over 13.3 million weekly viewer hours. Fortnite is wildly popular because it combines features of survival, building, and combat games.

In our online classroom, we use Fortnite as a teaching tool. Kids can use the creator mode to build their own games while learning foundational game design and development concepts. One of our top priorities while kids are in Fortnite is keeping them safe. 

Here are our best tips for parents to keep their kids safe in Fortnite.

The Importance of Parental Controls in Fortnite

Parental controls are a way to make sure your child is safe while they are having fun in Fortnite. The biggest safety concerns are the multiplayer features and the interactions with strangers.

While Fortnite does have some moderations in place, live, unmoderated chats are possible, putting kids at risk.

Fortnite’s graphics style makes it less gory than games like Call of Duty. But it includes violence, like shooting and killing, so the content may not be appropriate for younger kids. The parental controls give you the power to manage communication features like voice and text chat, restrict access to mature content, manage screen time, and limit in-game purchases.

The Fortnite platform has many different games, some of which are more appropriate for kids. For example Fortnite: Party Royale does not include any shooting or killing. It’s a space for kids to chat and hang out, enjoy entertainment, and compete with friends. You should review the individual game your child is playing and ensure it’s appropriate for them. 

Safety Concerns for Kids in Fortnite

Fortnite is rated T for Teen by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board). This signifies that the content is generally suitable for ages 13 and up. 

The game may contain violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, minimal blood, simulated gambling and/or infrequent use of strong language. For this reason, it’s not recommended for kids under the age of 13. 

Some of the main safety concerns parents should be aware of include:

• Player communications
• Inappropriate content
• Privacy
• In-game purchases
• Excessive screen time

Player Communications

One of the primary concerns is interacting with other players, especially strangers. Most games in Fortnite are multiplayer and require some level of cooperation. In the game, players often communicate with one another through voice and text chat. Fortnite users can also communicate outside the game with anyone who contacts them. 

Look out for: 

While most of these interactions are not problematic, you want to monitor for behaviors like cyberbullying and inappropriate content or language. In rare cases, there is the risk of online predators attempting to communicate with children in Fortnite. 

How to address it:

Use Parental Controls to disable or limit chat features, there are ways to limit the chat functionality to only your party or friends. You can also encourage your child to play only with friends they know in real life and be aware of who they are adding as friends. Discuss the importance of reporting abusive players and take steps to report them in game.

Inappropriate Content 

Generally, Epic Games does not allow any content higher than a Teen rating in Fortnite so the content is pretty kid-friendly. However, Fortnite’s gameplay and themes may not always align with what parents consider appropriate. Some content may not be appropriate for all ages, but the content is updated in every season, so take steps to regularly review it.

Look out for: 

The game involves shooting and eliminating players, so there is mild violence that may not be suitable for all children. Custom maps or community creations in Creative Mode may include inappropriate themes or images. Player interactions can also expose kids to mature language or topics.

How to address it:

Use Fortnite’s Parental Controls to set age-appropriate restrictions. Enable the Mature Language Filter in the parental control settings for inappropriate language. Supervise gameplay and review Creative Mode maps before your child plays them. Generally, encourage your child to play with friends on maps you have approved. 

Privacy

It’s crucial for kids to protect their identities online and limit the exposure of personal information. With Fortnite’s chat features, kids may inadvertently give away private information even if they don’t mean to. Malicious people and predators can take advantage of this to collect sensitive information.

Look out for: 

Messages that contain or reference personal details such as real names, school names, addresses, phone numbers, or other identifying information. Any direct messages with strangers and new friends and check for suspicious questions about personal or account information. Do not post identifying information like real-life photos or social media handles. 

How to address it:

Educate your child about the importance of keeping personal information private. Review your child’s privacy settings and ensure features like friend requests are restricted. Hide their username and others by making them anonymous. Discuss ground rules with your child and teach them what constitutes personal information and how to keep it safe. Encourage them to play with close friends and family to ensure safe interactions.

In-Game Purchases

Fortnite is free to play, but offers in-game purchases like skins, emotes, and battle passes. There are new items for purchase daily in the item shop. This could become a financial concern if children are not monitored or spend excessively. 

Look out for: 

More frequent purchases or excessive amounts of money spent, including unexpected charges on your payment option. Unintentional purchases as kids may be making purchases without realizing it. Exceeding spending limits you set and changes in behavior like secrecy or anxiety around showing you their account or character.

How to address it:

Parents can disable or require approval for purchases through parental controls. Instead of linking credit cards, limit your child’s spending by using prepaid gift cards. Discuss the value of money with your child and set a budget for in-game purchases.

Excessive Screen Time

Fortnite is a fun and engaging game and there is no end to it. Kids can continue to play every season and spend hours playing with friends. This is fun for kids, but it can lead to excessive screen time, disrupting sleep schedules, homework, or other activities.

Look out for: 

Kids spending too much time in Fortnite and prioritizing Fortnite over homework, chores, or social activities. 

The game’s competitive nature and rewards system can lead to compulsive playing habits. Staying up late at night to play and experiencing fatigue during the day. Losing track of time, spending hours in the game without realizing how much time has passed. 

How to address it:

Set boundaries for game time. It’s often difficult for kids to stop playing and that’s how games are built. You should establish clear boundaries for playtime using the parental control features provided by the platform. Ensure that your child has a balanced schedule with time for other activities, such as outdoor play, homework, or family time.

How to Setup Fortnite Parental Controls

To setup parental controls, you first need to add a parental controls pin.

Add a Parental Controls Pin

1. Login to your child’s Epic Games account at https://www.epicgames.com/
2. Select the Player Icon (circle in with an image of your character) in the upper right corner
3. Select Account 

4. Select Parental Controls

5. Choose 6-digit Parental Controls PIN

This PIN will be required to change parental controls in the future, so make sure to set a PIN that is different from other PINs that you use and is easy for you to remember.

You’re all set! You will now see options to select your parental control preferences. To use the following settings, you will need to have a parental control pin setup.

Manage In-Game Spending

Require a PIN for Purchases

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Go to the General tab 

4. Scroll to Epic Games Payment and toggle the button for “Always require a PIN for purchases using Epic Games payment service”.
   • On: Your PIN will be required to complete any purchase on Epic Games.
   • Off: Your child will be able to complete payments without a PIN.

Set Time Limit controls

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Click the Time Limits tab

4. For each game, set the time limit separately. Click Set Time Limits next to the Fortnite game. Here you can limit gameplay time, choose time windows, and allow kids to request more time.

Limit the total amount of time your child can play

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Click the Time Limits tab

4. Click Set Time Limits

5. Under Schedule toggle on Set Custom Daily schedules

6. Click Edit 

7. Under Time Limit add the number of hours and minutes your child is allowed to play

8. Click Save

Choose specific time windows when your child can play

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Click the Time Limits tab

4. Under Schedule toggle on Set Custom Daily schedules

5. Click Edit 

6. Under Time window add one or more time windows 

7. Click Save

Allow your child to request more time

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Click the Time Limits tab

4. Scroll down to check off Allow requests for more time via email

Time Reports for Fortnite

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Click the Time Reports tab

4. Select On or Off

Text and Voice Chat Settings

Toggle off mature language

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Go to Fortnite Settings tab

4. Scroll down to Mature Language
5. Toggle the button for Filter out mature language in Epic text chat
   • On: Mature language in text chat will be filtered and replaced with heart symbols.
   • Off: Text chat won’t be filtered for mature language.

Require a PIN to add friends

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Go to Social Permissions tab

4. Scroll down to Epic Friends Permission
5. Toggle the button for Require PIN to add Epic friends
   • On: You will need to enter your PIN everytime your child tries to send or accept an Epic Games friend request.
   • Off: Your child can send or accept friend requests without a pin.

Allow or Block Voice Chat

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Go to Social Permissions tab

4. Scroll down to Epic Voice Chat Permission
5. Select who your child can voice chat with
   • Everybody – allow voice chat with any players.
   • Friends & Teammates – allow voice chat with friends on their Epic friends list and people on their team who may not be on their friends list.
   • Friends Only – allow voice chat with friends on their Epic friends list, other people in the party will not hear them.
   • Nobody – block voice chat for all players.

Allow or Block Text Chat

1. Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
2. Enter your 6-digit pin
3. Go to Social Permissions tab

4. Scroll down to Epic Text Chat Permission
5. Select who your child can voice chat with
   • Everybody – allow text chat with any players.
   • Friends & Teammates – allow text chat with friends on their Epic friends list and people on their team who may not be on their friends list.
   • Friends Only – allow text chat with friends on their Epic friends list, other people in the party will not see their texts.
   • Nobody – block text chat for all players.

Manage Content Ratings

• Select Parental Controls in your child’s Epic Games account
• Enter your 6-digit pin
• Go to Fortnite Settings tab

• Scroll down to Fortnite Content Rating
• Choose an option for Require PIN to access experiences in Fortnite rated above:
  • Everyone
  • Everyone 10+ 
  • Teen

Report Users In-Game

If your child experiences any issues with other players during the game, there is a way to report bad player behavior in-game or from voice chat.

1. In the game, click the Menu icon.

2. Click the 3 lines hamburger icon.

3. Select REPORTING.

4. Click REPORT A BUG, PLAYER, OR ISLAND

5. Select Report Player.

6. Select the player’s name you wish to report.

7. Select the reason you want to report the player.

8. Click ACCEPT to send the report

Cabined Accounts

Cabined accounts are meant to provide a safer experience for younger kids from the start. All players that indicated they are under 13 years of age will have a cabined account. This means they will be asked to provide a parent or guardian’s email address in order to receive consent to access certain features in Epic’s products. Certain features are also automatically disabled in Cabined accounts. You can’t un-cabin an account, but you can set the parental control to allow certain features or experience ratings.

Learn more about cabined accounts.

How to turn off Fortnite parental controls

To turn off parental controls from an Epic Games account, you can:

1. Sign in to the Epic Account Portal at https://www.epicgames.com/
2. Select Account

3. Click Parental Controls from the left-hand menu

4. Enter your six-digit PIN
5. Choose the desired on/off state for each setting 

Tips for Monitoring Your Child’s Gameplay

These are actionable ways to monitor your child’s gameplay and address concerns about communication, content, privacy, and screen time.

Setup Fortnite Parental Controls

Start by setting up the built-in Parental Controls in Epic Games. These settings allow you to customize your child’s experience and minimize exposure to inappropriate content or interactions. There are options to restrict chat, set time limits, content, and friends.

Review Game Content Regularly

The game content changes often in Fortnite, so stay up to date with what your child is playing by reviewing the game content. New items are added in the store daily and updates, like new weapons and customizations, are made to the game weekly. Seasons change about every two months. Periodically you should also review maps in Creative Mode, as some user-created content may not be age-appropriate. Once completed, watch replays of their games to identify potential concerns, such as interactions with strangers.

Set Up Device-Level Parental Controls

Most parental controls are set in the Epic Account Portal, but your device may have additional settings. On the individual device, you can go to the Parental Controls section of Fortnite’s menu. Use these built-in settings to limit playtime, disable purchases, and control online interactions.

They are a great start, but combining them with regular discussions about online safety and device-level controls provides the best protection for kids. 

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