Backed by data from reputable sources, these charts provide great insight into where opportunities lie for our children. Learning to code provides your children with the skills needed to capitalize on these opportunities.

Prepare your child for success: If you are looking for your child to learn to code, explore our live, teacher-led coding classes. View Programs.

1. Computing jobs are the #1 source of new wages in the US

There are an estimated 500,000 current job openings in the computing field today. These jobs are in every industry and in every state. It they are projected to grow at twice the rate of all other jobs.

2. The STEM Opportunity is in computer science

Despite the significant focus on STEM, what is missed out is that 71% of all new STEM jobs are in computing. However, only 8% of STEM graduates are in computing. This mismatch creates significant opportunities for children with computing background.

3. Computer science graduates earn 40% more than other college graduates

It is a lucrative field to be working in. The average lifetime earnings of a computer science graduate is 40% more than other college graduates. The gap between demand and supply continues to increase resulting in increases in wages for people with computing skill.

4. Interest in learning to code peaks in middle school

This is important particularly for girls. During middle school, children are more open to learning new skills, tend to believe computing as cool, and the gender stereotypes haven’t set in that hard. 79% of working professionals got their first serious exposure to coding in middle school.

5. Most parents want their child to learn computer science

More and more parents are seeing the broader trend and want their child to learn computer science. Since most schools don’t offer coding classes for kids, parents are enrolling their children in supplemental coding programs to acquire these skills.

6. 204% increase in students taking high-school computer science courses

There was a 204% increase in the # of students taking AP computer science in high-school. As such, we recommend students take a preparatory AP computer science course that teaches the coding parts of the test. Students are starting to recognize the value of a high-school computer science courses. It leads to a future in 130 career areas and 48 college majors.

7. Computer Science is being integrated into every college major

As computing enters every aspect of model life, college education is also starting to reflect that. Some of the recent advances in many fields are being powered by the integration of computing to those fields. Watch this video to see what your child can expect to see when they get into college.

8. Coding helps bring ideas to life

Many of the big companies that we know today are founded by individuals who knew how to code. When your children know how to code, an idea doesn’t die after a conversation. They build a basic version and see how people react to it. When there is a positive response, they can build on it. Airbnb, Instacart, and Dropbox were all built that way. By giving them the skill of coding, you can give wings to your child’s ideas.

9. Many emerging fields are driven by software

The exciting fields that our children will make their careers in over the next 10-20 years are all driven by software. Knowing how to code gives kids an edge to thrive in these jobs of the future.

Prepare your child for success: If you are looking for your child to learn to code, explore our live, teacher-led coding classes. View Programs.

The post 9 Charts Every Parent Must See appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Valentine’s Day is a time to bring smiles to that special loved one. This year, you can set hearts aflutter with a handmade, hand-coded card. You will save the trees and spread the love.

[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

Follow this easy Scratch coding tutorial to build a Valentine’s Day scratcher that reveals a personalized card.

What is Scratch? Scratch is a 100% free block-based programming language and it’s one of our favorites. Developed by the minds at MIT, the Scratch platform lets you drag and drop code blocks to build fun games and apps. Scratch is a great way to introduce younger students to coding and how to think like a programmer. 

Try our Valentine’s Day Card Scratcher. Scratch off a heart to reveal a very special Valentine’s message.

What you need:

1. Scratch account: Create a free Scratch account 

2. Starter files: Download the images we are using in our game. You can also use your own images to customize your application. Download starter files

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

Step 1: Create a new project

Let’s start by creating a new project. 

Visit https://scratch.mit.edu/, login to your account, and click on the “Create” button.

Now, we can code your Valentine’s scratcher! 

Hint: You can also remix this project and others to see the code.

Step 2: Upload game board and card images

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

In the starter files, we’ve included images for your game board, Valentine’s cards, and candy hearts.

• Start by deleting the Scratch cat sprite that appears in every new project
• Add all of the background images by clicking “Upload Backdrop”
• In the Backdrops tab, select the “valentines_bg” image

These are the 6 different Valentine’s cards that can show after our user scratches a heart.

Hint: Instead of uploading backdrops, you can draw your own backdrops and add special messages here. 

Recommended: Scratch Coding for Kids

X, Y positioning in Scratch

Before we move on, let’s talk about x and y coordinates. 

Scratch uses x, y coordinates to position sprites on the screen. You might have seen these in math class. 

• x coordinate – a number of pixels along the horizontal axis of a display starting from the pixel (pixel 0) in the center of the screen.  
• y coordinate – a number of pixels along the vertical axis of a display starting from the pixel (pixel 0) in the center of the screen. 

We’ll use these (x, y) coordinates to position our hearts and scratchers. 

Step 3: Position hearts and scratcher sprite

In Scratch, your images are called sprites. 

• Click on each candy heart sprite
• Add the “When Green Flag Clicked” block
• Change the x and y properties of each sprite using the “Go To” block
• Repeat these steps for each candy heart, in the different positions listed

• Click on the scratcher heart and place it on top of the first candy heart using “Go Forward 1 Layers” block. 

Hint: You can put any heart in any position. Change the x, y positions of each heart to match your theme and background.

Step 4: Add a wand to scratch with

Our first scratcher is in position! We just need a way to scratch it. You can use or create any sprite as your scratcher, I’m using a magical wand.

• Click “Choose a Sprite”
• Search for and select the wand
• Visit the “Costumes” tab to rotate the wand 45 degrees
• Position the center of the wand in the center of the artboard
• Go back to the code tab

Hint: Draw your own sprite to use as a scratcher. A claw, an arrow, a coin, you choose!

Step 5: Wave your wand

Next, we want the wand to follow our mouse cursor.

We can use a “Forever” block, which acts like a loop to repeat code. Pairing it with the “Go to mouse pointer” and “go to front layer” block means the wand will show up on the top and follow our mouse forever.

• Click on your “Wand” sprite
• Add a “Forever” block
• Inside the “Forever” block use “Go to Front Layer” and “Go to Mouse-Pointer”

When you click the green flag, you should see your wand following your mouse.

Hint: You can also move your wand with your keyboard using an if-then the “Key Pressed” block.

Step 6: Create the scratched heart effect

Ready for scratching! Let’s create the scratcher effect every time our wand touches the silver scratcher. 

Instead of erasing the actual sprite, we will create a series of costumes that look like our heart is being scratched off.

• Click on your “scratcher1” sprite and go to the “Costumes” tab
• Right click to “Duplicate” the costume 
• On the duplicate costume, select the eraser and partially erase the heart
• Again, duplicate this new costume and repeat erasing until the heart is gone
• Rename the final costume “last”
• Reselect the first costume and return to the code tab

Hint: The more costumes you have, the longer it will take to reveal your card.

Step 7: Add scratcher logic

We’re going to reveal our candy hearts by changing costumes. When the candy heart is fully revealed, we will get to see our final Valentine’s card.

• Click on your “scratcher1” sprite 
• Add a “Forever” loop and inside of it an “If-Then” block
• If the scratcher is touching the wand, wait and change to the next costume

Now, when your wand hovers over the scratcher heart it should begin to disappear. But, it’s not coming back? 

• Add “Switch Costume To” block to show the full heart costume when green flag is clicked.

Hint: Instead of changing the costume when the sprites touch, you could also do it when you click on the heart.

Recommended: How to Make a Game on Scratch

Step 8: Reveal your Valentine’s card

What should happen when we’ve scratched off a heart? We finally get to reveal our sweet Valentine’s message! 

Each scratcher heart should reveal a different card. We will use the “broadcast” block to hide all the blocks and show our card. 

• On our scratcher heart sprite, add another “If-Then” block (inside the first if-then block)
• If the costume name is “last”, wait for 1 second then broadcast a message to hide all sprites
• Then switch the backdrop to the card you want to show (card1)

Your card will show up, but all of your other sprites are still showing up. The other sprites need to receive the “Hide” message and do something with it.  

For each of the other sprites, use the “Hide” block when they receive the message and then stop the script.

Hint: You can easily copy blocks of code from one sprite to another. Just grab the code block and hover over the sprite you want to copy it to.

Step 9: Show the game board when we restart

When we click the green flag, our game restarts. We’ll want to show our game board and hearts again.

• Click on the backdrops and add “When Green Flag clicked” block
• Use the “Switch Backdrop To” block to switch back to your game board image

Hint: You don’t have to stick to just one game board. Add several and switch them when the green flag is clicked.

Step 10: Add more scratcher hearts

You have one scratcher working! 

You can easily duplicate and update scratcher1 to cover the remaining hearts. Each new scratcher heart should reveal a different card. 

• Right-click to “Duplicate” scratcher1
• Change the go to x and y position (0, -15)
• Change the backdrop revealed to card2
• Repeat to cover all candy hearts

Your Valentine’s scratcher is complete!

Put it all together and give it a try. The most important step is to send it to a person you love this Valentine’s Day. 

https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/480067907/

You can “see inside” my project to get a peek inside the full Scratch code.

Free Scratch Tutorials

Recommended: Scratch Games

Download Free Printable Scratch Coding Tutorials PDF

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

Learn more about Scratch in our Elementary School Coding Program. It’s so much fun and the possibilities to be creative are endless! 

Did you remix this project? Share a picture or link with us on Facebook or Twitter with #NowYouCode to be featured. 

Hoping you have a sweet Valentine’s Day!

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

Taking AP Computer Science is a great accomplishment, it’s the next level in your computer science coursework and gives you exposure to college-level classes.

AP Computer Science is a stepping stone towards a degree in computer science or an academic way to explore your interest in technology and coding. This article summarizes the benefits of taking and passing the AP Computer Science exams, provides a brief overview of each exam and some helpful, free resources to practice and study for the exams, and gives tips for the best way to utilize resources to reap the most benefits.

Comparing the Two AP Computer Science Courses

There are two AP Exams students can consider in Computer Science:

• AP Computer Science exam A (APCSA) – The AP Computer Science A exam utilizes the programming language Java.
• AP Computer Science Principles exam (APCSP) – The AP Computer Science Principles exam is not language-specific. 

Earning college credit by passing the AP Computer Science (APCSA) exam or AP Computer Science Principles Exam isn’t easy – and even if you do pass the exam, there’s no guarantee you’ll be given college credit for your efforts if you score less than a five on the test. According to figures published by the AP College Board, in 2022 only 23.9% of students taking the APCSA and only 12.4% of students taking the APCSP scored a five on the test. Possible scores range from one (the lowest) to five (the highest).

Although a score of three on the exam is considered “passing”, many colleges and universities won’t grant credit for anything under a five. So, what are the advantages of taking an AP class and passing with a five? Even if your college or university doesn’t grant credit for your AP scores, your GPA can be raised enough by taking an AP course to get you accepted into a university you might otherwise not qualify for. Successfully passing an AP course with a high exam score looks impressive on any university application and is taken into account during course placement. Although credit may not be granted, you may be able to skip some lower-level classes due to your coursework and exam scores.

Recommended: Java Programming for Teens

2021 Score Distributions: Math & Computer Science

US news reported, in 2022, that …

AP Computer Science A is ideal for individuals who wish to pursue a career in areas like engineering, software development and web design. It is a great choice for students who plan to pursue a college major in computer science.

AP Computer Science Principles is ideal for students who are less interested in Java or who would like a big picture view of computing. It can be an excellent choice for various careers and majors, including economics, library and information science, and physics.

Both computer science classes have a great deal to offer high school students. Since they vary in several important ways, students should research each course before enrolling. Even if your high school does not offer the class you decide on, remember that you may be able to take it online.

To find out more about the new AP Computer Science Principles course, for example, browse this detailed PDF provided by the College Board. Knowing the changes to the course can help you decide if it will be a suitable choice for you.

Recommended: AP Computer Science Prep Courses

Know What’s On the AP Computer Science Exam

Knowing the information and having the skills to pass the test won’t get you to the finish line unless you are adept at answering the questions correctly. Knowing the format of both the APCSA and APCSP exams is a critical piece of information so you won’t be surprised by the format of the test. The AP Central website has excellent resources, including video walk-throughs, that go over the format, big ideas, topics, and unit-by-unit breakdowns of the course work. The video walk-through also points out the weighting for each unit on the exam.

In addition, find useful sites explaining the format and content of the exams are provided in the Exam Format section of this article.

Concepts Covered in APCS-A Exam

This course framework provides a description of the course requirements necessary for student success, with a focus on big ideas that encompass core principles, theories, and processes of the discipline. The framework also encourages instruction that prepares students for advanced computer science coursework and its integration into a wide array of STEM-related fields. APCS-A teaches coding for kids using Java programming language.

The AP Computer Science A framework is organized into 10 commonly taught units of study that provide one possible sequence for the course. As always, you have the flexibility to organize the course content as the teacher or student prefers.

More detailed information can be found in this PDF provided by the AP College Board.

Recommended: Coding Classes for High School Students

AP Computer Science Exam Format

The AP college board has changed the format of both exams, based on feedback from computer science teachers. Beginning with the 2020 exams, students can expect the following for the exam formats:

APCS-A Exam Format and Weighting:

Section I: Multiple Choice

The AP Computer Science A Exam multiple-choice includes mainly individual questions. There are 1 or 2 sets of multiple questions, typically 2-3 questions per set. Computational Thinking Practices 1, 2, 4, and 5 are included in the multiple-choice, while Computational Thinking Practice 3 is not.

Section II: Free-Response

The second section of the AP Computer Science A Exam includes four free-response questions, all of which assess Computational Thinking Practice 3: Code Implementation. All five skills are assessed within these four types of free-response questions:

1. Free-response question 1: Methods and Control Structures
2. Free-response question 2: Class
3. Free-response question 4: Array/ArrayList
4. Free-response question 5: 2D Array

APCS-P Exam Format and Weighting:

The AP Computer Science Principles computational thinking practices are assessed on the AP Exam as detailed below.

Section I: Multiple Choice

The AP Computer Science Principles Exam multiple-choice section has 70 total questions, including 65 individual questions and one set of five questions that uses a reading passage about a computing innovation as a stimulus. All computational thinking practices except Computational Thinking Practice 6 are assessed in the multiple-choice section, with the following exam weighting:

Section II: Create Performance Task

The second section of the AP Computer Science Principles Exam is done throughout the course. The performance task assesses Computational Thinking Practices 1, 2, 3, and 4 across six rubric rows.

Row 1: Program Purpose and Function assesses students’ ability to explain how a code segment or program functions. (Skill 4.A)
Row 2: Data Abstraction assesses students’ ability to use abstraction to manage complexity in a program. (Skill 3.B)
Row 3: Managing Complexity assesses students’ ability to explain how abstraction manages complexity. (Skill 3.C)
Row 4: Procedural Abstraction assesses students’ ability to use abstraction to manage complexity in a program. (Skill 3.B)
Row 5: Algorithm Implementation assesses students’ ability to implement and apply an algorithm. (Skill 2.B)
Row 6: Testing assesses students’ ability to investigate the situation, context, or task. (Skill 1.A)

A note of interest: the end-of-year multiple-choice exam APCSP. The 2021 end-of-year exam for AP Computer Science Principles contained 70 multiple-choice questions rather than 74. The questions will continue to be single-select items, which involve choosing one answer from among four options, and multiple-select items, which involve picking two answers from four options. However, some will be more complex, requiring students to consider the data and the effects of certain computing innovations. 

Recommended: Coding Classes for Teens

Concepts Covered in APCS-P Exam 

The AP Computer Science Principles Exam assesses student understanding of the computational thinking practices and learning objectives outlined in the course framework. The exam consists of the Create performance task and an end-of-course AP Exam. The Create performance task requires at least 12 hours of dedicated class time for students to complete. The end-of-course exam is 2 hours long and includes 70 multiple-choice questions. The multiple-choice section will include three different types of questions (in the following order on the exam): single-select questions, single-select questions with a reading passage about a computing innovation, and multi-select questions.

As part of the exam, students will be given the Exam Reference Sheet (see Appendix), which contains both block-based and text-based programming constructs and establishes a common way to communicate programming concepts for the purpose of the exam. The details of the exam, including weighting and timing, can be found below:

AP Computer Science Exam Study Tips:

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Practice Exams

Practice tests really help you feel prepared and be prepared for your exams. The feeling of preparation and confidence as you start the exam shouldn’t be discounted. Students who prepare for an exam feel less stressed and more confident – which naturally leads to higher grades. There are several free practice test sites available for both AP Computer Science exams. The best way to utilize a practice exam (multiple-choice, or free-form) is to pay attention to your results as you go along. Frantically re-taking the practice test without a plan of how to improve your understanding of the questions does you no good. 

For all kinds of practice exams, create a paper or online notebook with the questions you answered incorrectly, along with their correct answers. Evaluate why you got the answer incorrect and make a note to yourself about what skills you need to strengthen or what concepts you need to revisit. Take the time to build the skills and knowledge needed by researching and thinking about how to improve. After you feel you’ve revisited skills and concepts, try taking the practice test again. This is a time-consuming process, but reaps the best rewards when it comes to taking the actual exams. This same process works really well for tests outside of the AP exams as well.

There are many paid test preparation sites which also include practice tests, but this article focuses on free resources. If you are enrolled in an AP class at school, your teacher may have additional resources for you.

Practice Multiple-Choice Questions

For the multiple choice questions, you will be given a question and answers A-E to select from. Make sure you understand exactly what the question is asking. Evaluate the question to each answer and narrow down your responses. Eliminate the wrong answers and choose from the remaining answers for the one that best answers the question. 

• Albert.io
• Smore’s list of APCS resources and practice tests
• Varsity Tutors

Practice Free-Response Questions

For the free-response questions, you will be given a prompt and be expected to write a short program. You will call methods of classes that you have not seen before, so practice identifying the proper parameters to use when calling methods of classes that are provided to you. Pay close attention to the method descriptions and use the correct type and order of parameters when calling methods.

• Albert.io
• AP College Board APCSA Past Exam Questions
• CodeHS practice problems
• Smore’s list of APCS resources and practice tests

AP Computer Science Study Resources

We’ve vetted these free APCS-A resources to assist students in practicing exams or reviewing the content and types of questions they’ll see on the exams themselves. The AP College Board continues to add valuable videos as resources every month to help students during these particularly challenging times of remote learning.

AP CSA Free Practice Exam Resources

• AP College Board 2020 Sample Questions

APCSP Practice Exam Resources:

• Khan Academy
• AP College Board AP Computer Science Principles Course and Exam Description (page 172)

Additional Resources:

There are some resources available which are not practice exams or direct content, but can be useful to students taking the APCS-A course. Watching the videos on YouTube can give students insight into what areas they need to invest more time into studying. More videos are being posted each month, so it’s a good idea to check YouTube frequently for new additions.

APCSP NMSI Playlist on YouTube

Recommended: Free Coding Programs for Kids

CodeWizardsHQ’s AP Computer Science Program Prepares Students for the AP Exam Course

The AP Computer Science A classes are challenging. CodeWizardsHQ courses provide students with the foundational coding and programming skills required to successfully complete these courses.

Students who already have the foundational skills in coding and programming will have a much easier time making sense of the content of the AP Computer Science A course and the accompanying exams. Students who have completed CodeWizardsHQ courses have the foundational coding skills and knowledge needed, which allows them to concentrate on classwork and practice exams and strengthen weaker content areas.

See our AP Computer Science program. 

Good luck in AP Computer Science!

Whichever class you’re taking, it’s a step forward in your computer science education and we commend you for that. You’ll learn the problem-solving and logical thinking to succeed in whatever you do next. We wish you the best of luck in your class and on the final test.

More resources for AP Computer Science on the blog.

The post How to Get a 5: AP Computer Science Exam Review appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

What is AP Computer Science?

The Advanced Placement program offered through the College Board, offers college-level content and examinations which may allow for credit and placement preference at most colleges and universities. AP courses and exams are for students who are willing and academically prepared for college level work before going to college. There are currently two courses and examinations offered in the field of computer science.

What is AP Computer Science Principles?

The AP Computer Science Principles course is designed to appeal to a wide range of students especially those underrepresented in the field of computer science and technology with no prior knowledge. 

AP Computer Science Principles aligns with a first year introductory course in computing or technology offered at most colleges and universities. It has no specific programming language leaving students and schools to decide what is best for them. From how bits and bytes work, to creating software, to investigating the newest current technologies from an ethical and socially responsible point-of-view, this course has lots of interest.

Students will develop the following skills:

• Computational Solution Design
• Algorithms and Program Development
• Abstraction in Program Development
• Code Analysis
• Computing Innovations
• Responsible Computing

In order to gain college credit, students need to submit the Create performance task and take a two hour multiple choice exam, and score at least a 3 or higher. More AP computer science policies in your state.

AP Computer Science Principles Create Task

The Create performance task requires at least 12 hours of dedicated class time for students to complete and can be done in any programming language. They need to make a video of a program they created and respond to written reflection questions done through the AP Digital Portfolio. This accounts for 30% of their grade.

AP Computer Science Principles Exam

The end-of-course exam is 2 hours long and includes 70 multiple-choice questions. The multiple-choice section will include three different types of questions: single-select questions, single-select questions with a reading passage about a computing innovation, and multi-select questions. This is 70% of the final exam grade.

What is AP Computer Science A?

The AP Computer Science A course aligns with a first year introductory course in object-oriented program design in Java offered at most colleges and universities. It is recommended that prior to taking this course the student has already taken and done well in a high school algebra course. Students should have a strong understanding of basic linear functions, composition of functions, and problem-solving strategies that require multiple approaches and collaborative efforts. In addition, students should be able to use a Cartesian (x, y) coordinate system to represent points on a plane. The course has a mandatory 20-hour hands-on programming requirement that is often met with labs prepared by the College Board.

The content is all Java programming. From declaring variables to controlling the flow of a program by using sequence, branching, and looping, students will work hands-on producing software solutions with object-oriented programming design. There is a strong emphasis on developing computational thinking practices to solve problems.

Students are expected to develop skills in the following areas:

• Program Design and Algorithm Development
• Code Logic
• Code Implementation
• Code Testing and Debugging
• Preparing Code Documentation

AP Computer Science A Exam

The end-of-course exam is 3 hours long and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions that are worth 50% of the grade. The other 50% of the grade is from 4 free-response questions that are often multi-part with handwritten (pencil) solutions using Java. 

AP Computer Science Tutoring

When would it be helpful to get a tutor for ap computer science? Do I need a tutor for AP Computer Science?

If the student is currently enrolled in the course and is having difficulty with understanding the content or completing the assignments, then you should seek out a tutor to work one on one with the student to clarify concepts and guide program development.

If you are planning to take an AP Computer Science course in the future, then taking a prep course, like CodeWizardsHQ’s AP Computer Science classes, might be a better way to prepare for success. All of our hands-on courses are terrific preparation to take an AP Computer Science course and exam in the future.  

How do I choose an AP Computer Science tutor?

There are many reasons to decide to get a tutor and it is helpful to decide what your goal is before starting your search. Is the purpose to get more test preparation so that your student passes a test like an AP Exam? Is it to improve study skills and provide tools for future learning? Perhaps, it is to have access to content and curriculum with the ability to learn at a customized pace? Knowing your goal will help narrow your selection of tutors.

If exam prep is the goal and time is short, seek out a reputable tutor by asking your local school district for recommendations. The teacher of the high school class may also be able to suggest additional local study resources such as a former student who did well on the test last year. If there is more time consider finding a study buddy from your class or a class that meets at a different time than yours. Trade and review each other’s notes and problem sets. Worried about in person studying? You are not alone. Reach out to the companies listed here in the Are there any AP Computer Science Tutors near me? section.

If the goal is to improve overall study skills rather than content knowledge, consider the following resources:

• Huntington Learning Center Study Skills for High School Students
• Thinker Academy Study Skills Course
• The StudyPro Study Skills and Strategies Course 

If the need is for specific computer science content, look for an AP computer science tutor by searching for someone who has either studied computer science at a collegiate level, successfully worked in the field of computing as a programmer/developer, or as a mentor/tutor/instructor. Take the time to evaluate if they have a proven track record of working with students who have a variety of learning styles and needs. You want someone who makes your student feel safe, supported, and comfortable with the learning tasks and is skilled at setting achievable measurable goals.

How to be best prepared for an AP computer science tutoring session?

Be realistic about the time you have to spend preparing for the exam. Both courses are chock full of content to learn, new terms, techniques, and skills to master. Do you need help with the whole course or are you just struggling to grasp how to interpret how a program goes from input to output? 

Start by taking a practice exam to help identify the areas you need to work on. Making a list of these areas is a terrific way to come to each session prepared. With your tutor, you will find the best way to study and retain information so that you can be confident on the day of the exam.

Free Online Practice Tests:

• Free AP Computer Science A Practice Test – Java
• CS Awesome – Java
• Runestone Student CSP – Python for Principles
• Khan Academy – Principles Prep

Resources for establishing a Study Schedule

• Albert.IO – One Month Study Guide
• How to Make a No-Fail Study Timeline for Spring AP Exams

How to Study for AP Exams: 5-Step Plan

You will need to determine if an in-person or a remote tutor is best for you. Either way, you will need a dependable device to connect to the Internet as well as a means to write down notes and assignment requirements. Come to each tutoring session ready to work on mastering key concepts and developing computational thinking skills. In other words, come prepared to solve problems using technology or pencil and paper.

Are there any AP Computer Science Tutors near me? How much does it cost?

If you are looking for AP computer science tutors, consider these resources:

• Top 20 Online AP Computer Science Tutors Near Me – Varsity Tutors, in addition to tutors, offers a Free large group class of 250+ students and a small group class of 6-9 students for $25 per hour. Cost for tutoring must be requested from their website and varies depending on the tutor.
• 1:1 Online AP Computer Science Tutors | Top 10 AP Computer Science Tutors – Wyzant has many qualified tutors listed with prices ranging from $35 to $150 an hour.
• Online Computer Science Tutors – Chegg® Tutors are available to work with you for a single lesson cost of $6.95 or you can subscribe for $30/month for one single hour long session each month.
• Java Programming Tutor Online | Java Programming Homework Help – TutorMe does not have tutors specifically for AP Computer Science, but have Java and Python programming tutors available. Cost is $1 per minute of tutoring pay-as-you-go option, 2 hours to 8 hours a month ranging from $69 to $209 per month.
• Computer sciences tutors – Online Computer sciences tutors – Help with Computer sciences – Skooli offers pay-as-you-go pricing instead of a subscription or multiple session commitment. You can schedule in 15 minute increments and the cost is $0.82 per minute.

Most sites offer a filter so that you can sort these lists by city and state to see what reputable tutors are in your area. Some sites do not screen their tutors. Use caution, read the terms of use and agreement before using any online platform. If meeting in person, meet in a public location and be sure your child is supervised appropriately.

Recommended: Preparing for the AP Computer Science Exam

Are AP Computer Science tutors worth it?

There is no correct answer to this question. If time management and content comprehension is a struggle then hiring a tutor to force consistent study time is definitely worth it. One of the benefits of taking an AP course and sitting for the examination is for the potential college cost savings. Another benefit is to stand out from other college and university applicants. Taking challenging college level work at a high school level, and doing well in the course and on the exam, is a mark of distinction.

In order for preparation or tutoring to be truly successful, the student has to be actively engaged and involved in their own learning. You should congratulate your student for pursuing the rigorous topic of computer science as their learning adventure. This is one field where the learning never ends! 

CodeWizardsHQ wishes you and your child all the best in AP computer science.

The post Finding the Best AP Computer Science Tutor – A Complete Guide appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Halloween is just around the corner and the candy hunt is on! Instead of going door to door, let’s use code to get our candy fix.

Complete this easy Scratch coding tutorial to build your own trick-or-treat candy collector game.

What is Scratch? Scratch is a 100% free block-based programming language that lets you drag and drop code blocks to build fun games and apps. Scratch is a preferred introductory programming platform for younger students and it teaches powerful programming concepts like variables, loops, and conditionals.  

[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

Code this easy Scratch game then compete with your friends and family for the most candy this Halloween. 

Play Halloween Candy Collector 

What you need:

1. Scratch account: Create a free Scratch account 

2. Starter files: Download the images we are using in our game. You can also use your own images to customize your application. Download starter files

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

Scratch Coding: Halloween Video Tutorial

Step 1: Create a new Scratch project

Let’s start by creating a new project. 

Visit https://scratch.mit.edu/, login to your account, and click on the “Create” button.

Now, we can code your game! 

Hint: You can also remix this project and others to see the code.

Step 2: Upload background and character images

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

In the starter files, we’ve included images for your player, the candy, game over screen, and 5 different spooky settings. 

• Start by deleting the Scratch cat sprite that appears in every new project. 
• Add all of the background images by clicking “Upload Background”. 
• Add all of the character images by clicking “Upload sprite”. 

Hint: You can use any of your own images as sprites to customize your game, select images from Scratch, or even draw your own.

Step 3: Change the size of your characters

In Scratch, your character images are called sprites. Click on each sprite, then change the “Size” property.

• Boo: Size 30
• Candy: Size 10
• Gameover: Size 70

You can also click on your “gameover” image in the preview area and drag to move the image around.

Hint: Make the candy bigger for an easier game or make it really small for a harder game. 

Step 4: Hide the “gameover” sprite

We don’t want our game to be over before we start, so let’s hide our “gameover” sprite. 

In the Scratch interface, you can see the code blocks on the left under the “Code” tab. They are arranged in categories by color. Simply click and drag the block you want into the blank code area. 

Hint: The “When Green Flag Clicked” block helps us start our program. Just click the green flag near the preview screen to run your code.

Step 5: Get your ghost moving

Next, we want our ghost follow our mouse cursor to get it moving. 

We can use a “Forever” block, which acts like a loop to repeat code. Paired with the “Go to mouse pointer” block means the ghost will forever go to the location of the mouse.

Click on your “boo” sprite to add code to it. 

Hint: You can also code your ghost to move when you press up, down, left, and right using motion blocks. Check out bonus step #10 in our KidWizardsHQ group to learn how.

Step 6: Make your candy appear in random spots

Our candy shouldn’t stay in one spot, that’s too easy. Let’s make the candy appear in a random spot each time our ghost touches it. 

Click on your “candy” sprite to add this code to it. 

Hint: You can also add a sound effect when your ghost eats a candy. Check out bonus step #11 in our KidWizardsHQ group to learn how.

Step 7: Add a 30 second time constraint

We have 5 total backgrounds. If we show each background for 6 seconds, we get a game time of 30 seconds. 

You can choose which background you want to appear first but adding a “Switch Backdrop” block under the “When Green Flag is Clicked”.

Click on the background block to add code to it. 

Hint: Add as many backgrounds as you like or change the wait time to get different game levels. 

Step 8: Show “gameover” sprite when time is up

Once we have shown each background for 6 seconds, the game is over. No more candy! 

Since our timer only has code on the background, we need to send a message to the other sprites that hey, the game has ended. 

The other sprites will wait for a message and complete some action when it’s received. We’ll call this message “stop”.

Click on the background block and add on to the block you started in Step 7.

We also want to show our “gameover” sprite once the game ends and stop the rest of the game. 

Click on the “gameover” sprite to add this code to it.

Hint: If you want to hide your “boo” and “candy” sprite at the end of the game, send them the “stop” message then hide the sprite.

Step 9: Add a score

No game is complete without a score to brag about. Our score, since it changes, is assigned to a variable. 

Create a “score” variable by clicking “make a variable” and call it “score”. Make sure the box next to your “score” variable is checked in order to show it in your game.

When you eat a piece of candy, you will want to increase the score by one. 

Click on the “candy” sprite and insert “set” and “change” variable blocks into the code.

Hint: Add another sprite with the same code, but add 5 to the score as a bonus. Or play a trick and add 0.

Your game is complete! 

Take a look at the final product, your candy collector is complete. Play Halloween Candy Collector. 

You can “see inside” our completed candy collector game to get a peek at the full Scratch code.

• BONUS Step #10 move your ghost using up, down, left, and right arrow keys
• BONUS Step #11 add sound effects when you collect candy

Recommended: Scratch Games

Download Free Printable Scratch Coding Tutorials PDF

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

We want to see your Halloween games! Share your game using #triCODEtreat on social media and show us your spin on this game.

If you want to build more games in Scratch, check out our Elementary School Coding Program. It’s the most fun and effective way to learn Scratch coding and eventually real-world languages like JavaScript and Python.

Happy Halloween!

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

Happy holidays to all of our students and friends. Instead of buying a card this year, use our HTML and CSS tutorial for kids and your programming skills to code a personalized holiday card for your friends and family.

It’s not the same boring card everyone else is buying, you can personalize this card with your style or match the recipient’s. This is an easy HTML and CSS tutorial for kids or anyone starting to learn. We’ll be building this simple holiday card that opens when you hover over it.

This tutorial assumes you understand basic HTML and CSS. Let’s get started!

• Step 1: Add a background image to the page
• Step 2: Add an image to the front of the card
• Step 3: Add a message to the cover of your card
• Step 4: Style the message on the cover of your card
• Step 5: Add a message on the back of your card
• Step 6: Style the message on the back of your card
• Step 7: Add your picture or logo to the inside page
• Finished card!

What you need:

1. Text editor

You can use a simple text editor like Notepad, TextEdit, Sublime Text, etc.  You may also use an online text editor like Codepen. Please use the link to set up your account.

2. Base HTML/CSS file.

Download the base folder and open the holiday_card.html file. This folder contains all the images and files you will need to complete your card.

Edit the holiday_card.html file inside of any text editor: for example, Notepad on Windows, TextEdit on Mac, or Sublime Text. You can also use an online text editor like Codepen to edit and run this code. The base files will set up a blank card that opens when you hover over it.

Prepare your child for success: If you are looking for your child to learn to code, explore our live, teacher-led coding classes. View Programs.

Recommended: HTML and CSS for Kids

Step 1: Add a background image to the page

Add a background image property to the <body> element and cover the entire page. By default, the background is repeated.

Add this code:

body {
      background-image: url('bg.jpg');
      background-size: cover;
}

Output:

Hint: To change the background, use a different JPEG or PNG image file in place of ‘bg.png’.

Step 2: Add an image to the front of the card

Add a background image property and a background-size to .front. This adds a nice image to the front of our card.

Add this code:

.front {
      background: url('winter_scene.jpg') 
no-repeat center darkred;
      background-size: cover;
    }

Output:

We also want the same image on the inside front of the card. Instead of creating a separate style for .page, we will add it to the styles for .front.

Add this code:

.front, .page {
      background: url('winter_scene.jpg') 
no-repeat center darkred;
      background-size: cover;
    }

Output:

Hint: To change the cover image, use a different JPEG or PNG image file in place of ‘winter_scene.jpg’.

Step 3: Add a message to the cover of your card

Add a message on the cover using an H1 element inside .front. Include your own holiday message.

Add this code:

<div class="front">
 <h1>Happy Holidays!</h1>
</div>

Output:

Hint: To change the message, replace ‘Happy Holidays’ with a personalized message.

Step 4: Style the message on the cover of your card

Style your <h1> element. We’ve added the Google font “Cookie” in our <head> element. 

Add this code:

h1 {
 font-family: 'Cookie', serif;
 font-size: 40px;
 margin-top: 40px;
 color: white; 
}

Output:

Hint: To change the font, replace ‘Cookie’ in the font-family property. Select from these web safe fonts.

Step 5: Add a message on the back of your card

Inside of .back, add a <div> element with class ‘message’ to hold your headings and paragraph.

Add this code:

<div class="back">
    <div class="message">
    </div>
</div>

Output:

Inside of .message, add a personalized message to your friend or family member with <h5> and <p> elements.

Add this code:

<div class="message">
   <h5>Dear Friends,</h5>
   <p>'Tis the season of giving and
 gratitude. Thank you for your continued 
support. We wish you and your family a
 joyous and happy holiday season. </p>
   <h5>CodeWizardsHQ Team</h5>
</div>

Output:

Hint: To change the message, replace the content inside your H5 and p elements.

Step 6: Style the message on the back of your card

Add the following styles to .message and text elements.

Add this code:

.message {
  margin-top: 30px;
  color: #900909;
}

h5 {
  font-family: 'Cookie', serif;
}

p {
   font-size: 10px;
}

Output:

Hint: You can change the color of the font by changing the color name or hex property of .message (List of colors)

Step 7: Add your picture or logo to the inside page

Add an <img> element inside of .page

Add this code:

<div class="page">
   <img src="cwhq_logo.png">
</div>

Output:

Style your <img> element by decreasing the size and flipping it.

Add this code:

img{
   margin-top: 60px;
   width: 90px;
   transform: scaleX(-1);
}

Output:

Hint: You can change the image by linking a different JPG or PNG file in the src attribute of the element.

Your card is complete!

Check out the finished product.

Download the completed HTML and CSS code and open the i_holiday_card.html for the final card project.

Customize this code to create your own holiday card! It’s that easy. Now you can dazzle your friends and family with your coding skills and a thoughtful card too. 

Did you code your own card? Share a picture or link and use #CodeWizardsHQ or tag us to be featured on social media.

Learn more about building games and websites in our live HTML coding classes for kids.

Ready to level up your child’s learning experience? See our coding programs for kids ages 8-18:

• Elementary School Coding Program
• Middle School Coding Program
• High School Coding Program

The post HTML and CSS Tutorial for Kids: Holiday Card appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Coding is everywhere, from the fitness tracker on your wrist to the navigational system on an airplane.

And that means coding is a huge opportunity for teens. If they study it now, they’ll be able to pursue careers in almost any industry.

But getting them to that point is the tricky part, with many parents wondering why teens should code, what coding languages teens should learn, or how to encourage their teens to code. Use this comprehensive guide to help you start your teen on their coding journey.

1. Benefits of Coding for Teens
2. Coding Languages Teens Should Learn
3. Coding Kits for Teens
4. Coding Gifts for Teens
5. Coding Books for Teens
6. Coding Clubs for Teens
7. Coding Competitions for Teens
8. Coding for Teens With CodeWizardsHQ

Benefits of Coding for Teens

Coding for teens results in more than a basic knowledge of coding languages or the ability to build sound Minecraft structures. Learning to code produces real benefits for teenagers, such as better performance in school, an advantage on college applications, enhanced critical thinking and problem solving, and career opportunities. 

Coding classes, clubs, and camps available to teenagers provides curriculum and support to learn to code. Students can use their coding knowledge and study skills in other computer science classes and academic pursuits. It’s especially an advantage when applying for college or an internship. Even employers highly value these skills. 

A short list of today’s coding careers includes aeronautics, art and design, data analysis, engineering, information technology (IT), mobile development, product design and development, project management, the sciences, software development, user experience (UX), and web development. That list will only grow. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts “computer and information technology occupations” will grow by 13% from 2016 to 2026, producing nearly 560,000 new jobs. And as for better wages, MarketWatch reports many of the jobs that require some knowledge of computer coding pay $57,000 or more per year.

Recommended: Summer Minecraft Camp for Kids

Coding Languages Teens Should Learn

Many coding languages exist, which makes it hard to choose ones to study. CodeWizrdsHQ recommends teens learn the programming languages commonly used today, such as the following nine. Teens may want to emphasize in one language over another, but they should familiarize themselves with all of them. By learning different coding languages, they will be able to select the right language to the problem they’re solving.

C#

C# be used to create almost anything, from mobile apps and server applications to video games, making it a general-purpose language. However, it largely belongs to the realm of Microsoft, .NET frameworks, and the Unity Game engine. If your teen expresses interest in any of those things, direct their attention toward the C# language. Learning it should be somewhat easy since it more-or-less reads like English.

HTML

HTML, or Hypertext Markup Language, probably is the simplest language to learn. It controls how elements appear on a website, affecting colors, fonts, hyperlinks, and graphics. While simple and easy to learn, it’s powerful. Teens should learn this language, especially if web development piques their interest.

CSS

CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheets. It outlines how HTML elements appear on a web page, which lessens the amount of coding required to run a website. The language saves developers a lot of time and effort, so teens should learn it. It’ll save them hours of work and frustration.

JavaScript

Most browsers use JavaScript, making this language a must-learn. It also augments web development languages like HTML and CSS, usually adding dynamic elements to web pages. The language can serve as an introduction to front-end and back-end development, too, which further expands teens’ understanding of coding and its job opportunities.o teens should learn it. It’ll save them hours of work and frustration.

Python

Python can be thought of as a multi-purpose language. It receives use in web development, software development, and machine learning. The third application may explain its recent burst of popularity. Machine learning is a growing industry due to continued investments in artificial intelligence (AI) technology and applications.

C++

C++ appeared in the 1980s. It remains a relevant language because of its power—it backs applications like Microsoft Windows, Adobe, Amazon, and Google Chrome. C++ can be harder to learn than Python and JavaScript, but teens should still learn it. The language supports many enterprise systems, and it can be useful for video game and embedded firmware development.

PHP

PHP, a server-side scripting language, sees frequent use in web development, underpinning many ecommerce sites, content management systems, WordPress sites, and social media sites. Its strength lies in its flexibility, meaning there are no hard or fast rules about how to use it. It complements HTML, giving websites additional functionality, and interacts well with databases, especially MySQL ones.

Java

Teens interested in Android applications will need to learn Java. Java is the backbone of all Android applications. It sometimes is employed as a server-side language, similar to PHP. Java awards other benefits, too, such as being able to run on any hardware and operating system thanks to the Java Virtual Machine.

Swift

Swift is the language of the Apple ecosystem. It’s also a fairly easy language to learn, building upon Ruby and Python. It benefits from some unique advantages, such as checking for errors during development and managing app memory usage in real time.

Coding Kits for Teens

Many of the coding kits listed here offer a dual opportunity: building robots and teaching teens to code. Some of the kits entail actual coding while others emphasize coding fundamentals and critical thinking skills.

Bitsbox

Bitsbox is a subscription box that teaches teens computer science principles like coordinates, functions, operators, and parameters. Each monthly box features a new CS concept along with a hands-on project devoted to it. The subscription is affordable, ranging from about $16 a month to $40.

CanaKit Raspberry Pi 3 Complete Starter Kit

An Amazon’s Choice product, the CanaKit is designed for the do-it-yourselfer. The kit comes with a quick-start guide, but teenagers are on their own after that. For best results, the CanaKit should be paired with one of the Raspberry Pi books mentioned later in this guide.

NaCoDrone Pro Kitme

The CoDrone Pro is meant for the teenager who loves flight and programming. The kit includes everything your teen needs, from the drone itself to the controller powering it. As teens learn programming basics like loops, conditionals, and variables through online tutorials, they apply the concepts to the drone, giving it a literal lift-off.

Kano Computer Kit

The Kano Computer Kit guides teens through building a mini-computer. Once built, teens can use the device to code art, music, and games with the Python and JavaScript languages. The Kano also connects to an online community where teens can collaborate and compete with other Kano users.

LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox

The LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox includes 840 LEGO pieces so that teens can build and program one of five robots. The combination teaches teens how to approach building products and solve problems, such as getting their robot from Point A to Point G.

littleBits Base Kit: Rule Your Room

llittleBits proves the smallest object can be the mightiest. Teens learn engineering and problem solving by turning everyday objects into “interactive inventions.” The kit contains instructions for eight inventions and one challenge, which should all inspire teens to create their own littleBits designs.

Piper Computer Kit

The Piper Computer Kit requires teens to build and code a computer before they can play a Raspberry Pi version of Minecraft. They can then enhance their computer game with different types of “power-ups.” This kit features a higher price tag, but it’s worth consideration since it instills creative confidence and technical expertise.

Coding Gifts for Teens

If you wish to encourage a teen to code with a birthday or Christmas gift, consider purchasing one of the following items. Some provide fun for the whole family, as in the case of the Code Master board game. Others involve robotics and programming, giving teens an appetite for hardware and software design, engineering, and application development.

Anki Cozmo Robot

The Anki Cozmo Robot may remind teens of WALL-E, the beloved Pixar robot. With Cozmo, teens use the Code Lab to program the robot to perform tasks and complete objectives. As teens interact with the robot, it gets smarter, showcasing new personality traits, skills, and games.

Bloxels Build Your Own Video Game

Mattel’s Bloxels integrates the physical and digital worlds with “Build Your Own Video Game.” Teens initially use designs included in the kit to create games and then “digitize” them with the Bloxels Builder app. Once they’re familiar with Bloxels, they can use the game board, color blocks, and app to build and code their own games.

Code Master Programming Logic Game

Code Master is a traditional board game with a computer science twist. Teens and parents who play the game learn programming logic, as well as develop computational and problem solving skills. With 10 maps and 60 levels, the game play changes frequently, which keeps teens motivated to learn and win.

Code: On the Brink

Code: On the Brink places teens in the role of programmers. Their objective: Be the first to guide their robot from the starting point to the finish, all while working within certain fixed requirements. The game tests teens’ understanding of programming concepts. It also unleashes problem-solving skills as teens progress through 40 challenges that range in complexity and difficulty.

Evo App-Connected Coding Robot

The Evo robot’s simple appearance belies strong performance, as evidenced by top reviews from publications like TechCrunch, Wired, and PC Magazine. It features Bluetooth Smart, LED lights, and a variety of sensors. Teens can affect those items through OzoBlockly, Evo’s programming platform.

Meccano-Erector M.A.X.

M.A.X. combines robotics and a programming platform. Teens can use the platform, plus the robot’s built-in artificial intelligence (AI), to create a one-of-a-kind robot that responds to their prompts. When they tire of the traditional M.A.X., they can reassemble its 332 parts into another robot.

Sphero SPRK+ Robot

An Amazon’s Choice product, the Sphero SPRK+ aims to entertain and educate. The robot comes equipped with the Sphero Edu application, which allows teens to improve their coding skills. Teens begin with simple commands before moving onto block-based programming. Eventually, they move from coding blocks to writing in JavaScript.

Wonder Workshop Cue

The Wonder Workshop Cue looks like an alien robot with its glowing lights, tripod base, and head. Teens first get acquainted with the robot through its emotive AI. They then move into adjusting the robot’s behaviors with games and challenges that start with block-based programming and end with JavaScript.

Coding Clubs for Teens

Coding clubs provide safe and fun learning environments. In them, teens learn about computer science; apply their knowledge to hypothetical problems; and develop relationships with other students. The clubs often feature a mentorship component, too, which encourages teens to persist with their coding studies.

After-School Clubs

Many schools either provide or partner with external organizations to offer after-school clubs, including ones specific to coding and computer science. To find out what’s available at your teen’s school, visit with the school office. Its assistants and secretaries usually have a running list of after-school clubs open to students.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Many Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) provide computer science and coding activities thanks to Google’s CS First. Google designed CS First for youth ages 9 to 14, with the goal of teaching them to express their ideas through computer code. CS First includes everything BGCA volunteers need to host the class, from lessons plans and instructional videos to physical awards like stickers and certificates.

Price: Free

CodeDojo

CoderDojo, an international club, provides a relaxing and safe environment in which kids can learn to code. Dojos are free to attend and open to kids ages 7 to 17. At the dojo, participants learn to build websites, develop applications and games, and explore opportunities in the tech field.

Price: Free

Local Library Clubs

Many local libraries offer computer science classes. Parents interested in such opportunities should visit with their local library to find out what’s available. Many libraries also allow cardholders to check out computer equipment, such as Raspberry Pi kits.

The Clubhouse Network

The Clubhouse Network is an international community of clubhouses. These clubhouses entail a safe and free learning environment where teens from underserved communities can learn about technology. Participating teens also work with mentors, which builds confidence, develops new skills, encourages creativity, and motivates them to seek out new career opportunities.

Price: Free

Coding Competitions for Teens

Coding competitions deliver inspiration, motivation, and collaboration. The third quality might seem odd, but most coding competitions require a team, rather than individual, effort. As a result, teens learn to work together even as they push toward the completion deadline and a potential prize.

Carnegie Mellon CS-STEM Network

The Carnegie Mellon CS-STEM Network hosts competitions semi-regularly. These contests typically combine computer science and robotics, a timely integration as job opportunities in artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to rise. Some of the competitions emphasize other intriguing technology applications, such as urban planning.

Price: Free

eCYBERMISSION

The U.S. Army hosts the eCYBERMISSION challenge, a competition for 6^th, 7^th, 8^th, and 9^th grade students. Participating students form teams of three or four individuals from the same grade-level and state, with an adult team advisor, usually a teacher. The team studies a problem in the local community; selects a Mission Challenge that addresses the problem; and submits the completed challenge in a Mission Folder. Exceptional Mission Folders typically receive state, regional, and national awards.

Price: Free

Google Code-in

Google Code-in is an annual, global competition in which teenagers ages 13 to 17 are introduced to open source software development. Google partners with select open source organizations, and they determine a list of tasks for teens to complete during the contest period. Successful completion of tasks rewards different prizes, along with practical knowledge about coding, documentation, research, and user interface design.

Price: Free

Imagine Cup

The Imagine Cup, put on by Microsoft, is a global competition. Teens form teams and devise technology solutions that shape how people live, work, and play. Teens compete for prizes and, of course, the prestigious Imagine Cup.

Price: Free

Technovation Challenge

The Technovation Challenge forms teens into teams that ideate, build, and sell an app that solves a problem in the local community. The competition occurs every year and is open to girls between the ages of 10 and 18.

Price: Free

Teen Hackathon

Teen Hackathon encourages teens to learn about and apply technology to the real world. Teen participants usually visit with companies to learn about a specific technology. They then apply that technology to their proposed solution. In the final phase of the hackathon, the teens present their solutions; receive feedback, a little like Shark Tank; and earn prizes.

Price: Free

University Interscholastic League (UIL)

The University Interscholastic League (UIL) at the University of Texas at Austin holds annual computer contests on a regional level. The contests comprise two parts, a 45-minute written exam and a two-hour programming contest. The first focuses on the individual’s grasp of computer science concepts while the second emphasizes shared knowledge and team collaboration. First-place teams move onto the next level of competition, usually a statewide meet.

Price: Free

USA Computing Olympiad

The USA Computing Olympiad runs contests throughout the year. Participating teens receive four hours in which to complete the current contest. Those who successfully complete the contest can move onto more advanced competitions, including the US Open and the annual International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI).

Price: Free

Coding for Teens With CodeWizardsHQ

CodeWizardsHQ offers coding classes on various days and times, making it easy to find a class that fits your schedule. Teens log into the class at the appropriate time to receive instruction from a live instructor. They then work through several problems together before working independently. The lessons build progressively, ultimately leading to internship opportunities.

The post The Comprehensive Guide to Coding for Teens appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Coding has become an important and relevant skill for kids today. Whether you want to help your child become a computer programmer or simply expand their computer science knowledge, you probably know there any many benefits to coding for kids. While the benefits are exciting, learning how to actually code may seem like more of a chore to kids than a great opportunity. 

Prepare your child for success: If you are looking for your child to learn to code, explore our live, teacher-led coding classes. View Programs.

That’s where coding games come in. In our coding classes for kids, our philosophy is to help kids learn to code in a fun way. Kids play and build games in every class which keeps them engaged and learning.

To get your child excited about coding, we’ve put together a list of the best coding games for kids. These games teach programming skills and make it fun too. They’re organized by grade and age level, so your child is sure to find the perfect game for them.

Best Coding Games for Kids in Preschool

1. Code Karts

Platforms: iOS, Android

Pricing: Free

Ages: 4+

Best Because: Code Karts introduces coding concepts to young children through the use of logical puzzles in the form of a fun racetrack. With over 70 different levels and two different game modes, kids will have no shortage of entertainment or variety when it comes to this app.

The objective of this coding game is to use directional bricks to get their race car to the finish line, providing a stimulating coding environment.

Code Karts also comes in more than 20 different languages, bringing the fun to a wide audience, and young children will easily learn the fundamentals of code as well as directions and logic.

2. CodeMonkey Jr.

Platforms: Browser

Pricing: Free trial ($7/month)

Ages: 4-8

Best Because: CodeMonkey Jr. is a block-based coding game for kids in Pre-K and Kindergarten. Drag and drop coding is perfect for kids at this age to learn the basics of programming. In this game, they’ll join a monkey on a mission to collect bananas in a world of fun colors and characters. Kids can start with no experience, they don’t even need to know their ABC’s. The challenges progress as they learn about logic, loops, sequencing, algorithms, and more!

3. Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set

Platforms: Board game

Pricing: $98.95

Ages: 4+

Best Because: Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set is a screen-free way to teach foundational coding skills to even the youngest of programmers. It includes double-sided coding cards, a Programmable Robot Mouse, cheese wedge, and a special Activity Guide that allows kids to create endless maze paths for their mouse.

Once their specific maze is created, kids set up the coding cards to instruct their mouse where to go. The mouse can even light up, make sounds, and features two different speeds, keeping the game interactive and engaging.

Recommended: Ultimate Guide to JavaScript Game Development

4. Bee-Bot

Platforms: iOS

Pricing: $74.95

Ages: 3+

Best Because: The Bee Bot app was designed specifically to help young children grow their programming skills and sequencing abilities through the use of a fun and interactive game. Based on the lovable floor robot, the app features 12 different levels which progressively get harder as the user advances. Each level is timed and gives exciting rewards, providing incentives for even the youngest of coders.

Kids can also enhance their directional language as Bee Bot moves forwards, backwards, left, and right. Set in a relaxing garden setting, this will be the perfect game for young ones ages four and up.

5. Cubetto

Platforms: Wooden robot

Pricing: $227.64

Ages: 3-9

Best Because: In a world full of technology and screens, finding a game that is free of these yet still teaches your child the basics of coding may seem like an impossible task. That’s where Cubetto stands apart. Cubetto is a friendly wooden robot that teaches children the basics of computer programming through a real-world, tangible object.

Through adventure and hands-on play, Cubetto allows kids to manipulate and touch its blocks in order to tell the robot where to go. It can also be used with special books and maps, providing a positive and all-encompassing experience without the need for an app or device.

6. Osmo Coding Jam

Platforms: iOS + board game

Pricing: $49.60

Ages: 5-12

Best Because: There is no shortage of research that proves music is beneficial for a child’s development. Combine that with the advantages of programming and you are sure to have a unique and positive game on your hands.

Osmo Coding Jam is an engaging board game that connects to an iOS app and allows kids to create their own music with hands-on coding blocks. By being able to physically change the coding blocks on the board game, even the youngest coders are learning how to sequence and problem-solve. Through the use of music, kids can also develop rhythm, melody, and harmony.

Recommended: Python for Kids

Best Coding Games for Kids in Kindergarten

7. CodeSpark Academy

Platforms: iOS/Android/ Kindle Fire/ Windows

Pricing: Free Trial, $15/mo

Ages: 5-9

Best Because: CodeSpark Academy is an award-winning app that has introduced the concepts of coding to over 20 million children in more than 200 different countries. Using a “no words” interface, this app teaches all of the fundamentals of computer programming for kids through puzzles, games, printables, and even projects, bringing the fun from the screen to life.

With personalized daily activities based on your child’s progress, engaging curriculum developed by research from MIT, Princeton, and Carnegie Mellon, and new subscription app content every month, your child will have a hard time putting this one down.

8. Kodable

Platforms: Browser, iOS

Pricing: Free Trial ($24.99/mo)

Ages: 4-10

Best Because: Kodable is an online resource utilized by parents and educators all over the globe. The lessons combine both on-screen and off-screen components. Kodable breaks down computer science topics into basic concepts that kids can use for life including JavaScript and robotics.

Through interactive games, your child can foster a love of learning, and through carefully crafted standards, you can ensure their fun will help them be prepared for higher educational concepts. It also connects with an app that has custom-built games. 

9. Cork the Volcano

Platforms: PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Steam 

Pricing: $8.99

Ages: 6-10

Best Because: Cork the Volcano teaches kids to code through programming puzzlets. Set up sequences of actions for the characters to reach the Puzzlet Piece, collect raindrops along the way for bonuses, and avoid dangers from the island along the way through this programming puzzle platformer. Kids can practice computational and algorithmic thinking with each challenge. They’ll learn to come up with logical steps and strategies to win the game.

10. Robot Turtles

Platforms: Board game

Pricing: $43.48

Ages: 4+

Best Because: Robot Turtles is a STEM board game for preschoolers. While providing a fun and engaging hands-on game for them to play, your kids will feel in control and get to learn all of the basic concepts of programming at the same time. Through simple commands that are used to program the Robot Turtle, your little one will learn what it means to write code, debug, and use basic functions. As they play, they unlock new challenges, giving the game new life and growing with them. It’s a time for the whole family to be silly and play together, spending meaningful time away from the screen.

11. ScratchJr Coding Cards: Creative Coding Activities

Platforms: Card Game

Pricing: $24.99

Ages: 5-9

Best Because: ScratchJr Coding cards are an easy and fun way to introduce young kids to programming concepts and the Scratch language. It gives step-by-step instructions on how to use the programming blocks. They can create their own games, stories, and animations as they work through each card in ScratchJr. This collection of coding activity cards is perfect for working one-on-one with your child or sharing among small groups.

12. ScratchJr.

Platforms: iOS/Android/Kindle Fire/ Chromebook

Pricing: Free

Ages: 5-7

Best Because: Scratch, Jr. teaches young children important new skills as they begin to program their own interactive games and stories. This novice version of Scratch allows younger children to snap together programming blocks in order to make their characters move, jump, sing, and dance.This app was designed by leading experts to better fit younger children’s cognitive, personal, social, and emotional development, so you can feel confident it is appropriate for your little one.

13. CoderBunnyz

Platforms: Board game

Pricing: $29.78

Ages: 4+

Best Because: Designed and created by a 9-year-old, CoderBunnyz is a unique board game that teaches a range of coding topics. It’s a highly interactive way to introduce coding, with 13 levels of kinesthetic learning that grows with your child and their skill levels.

The game involves programming robot bunny game tokens with code cards. The goal is to eat the carrot and reach the destination before others do! CoderBunnyz covers a variety of basic and advanced programming concepts, including sequencing, looping, functions, branches, debugging, and inheritance.

14. Dash Robot

Platforms: Robot and app

Pricing: $179.99

Ages: 6+

Best Because: Dash Robot is a real robot that is charged and ready to play with right out of the box. Through the use of a connected app, your child is able to help Dash perform new behaviors, like dancing and singing, as well as move and navigate around objects. What makes Dash stand out from other games is that there are multiple apps available that align with various age groups, learning levels, and play styles. You can tailor the program to your specific child’s needs, giving them fun that is made for them.

15. Move the Turtle

Platforms: iOS

Pricing: $3.99

Ages: 5+

Best Because: Move The Turtle is an educational app for the iPhone and iPad that teaches children the basics of creating computer programs through the use of a friendly Turtle.

By completing tasks, your child will learn how to plan complex activities made of simple elements, how to reuse previously completed work, and how to use graphics and sound within programming. Your child will also become familiar with the concepts of loops, procedures, variables, and conditional instructions while playing an engaging and interactive game.

Recommended: How to Make a Game on Scratch

Best Coding Games for Kids in Elementary School

16. Algorithm City

Platforms: Android

Pricing: Free

Ages: All ages

Best Because: Algorithm city teaches the basics of programming and algorithms. It has a fun, simple interface that young students can easily navigate. Using symbols, kids code functions that guide their character. Kkids learn command sequencing, functions and loops, by guiding the character by collecting golds and solving levels.

17. Tynker

Platforms: iOS/Android/Chromebook

Pricing: Free Trial ($12/mo)

Ages: 5+

Best Because: Winner of a large variety of awards, including Parents’ Choice Gold Award for coding games for kids, Tynker is an interactive game that makes programming accessible and fun for kids, regardless of their prior experience with the content. Using intuitive visual blocks to create games, kids have the ability to also write interactive stories, modify Minecraft, program drones, and explore other STEM topics.

Tynker also can be played offline without internet connectivity, and with your permission, your child could share their creations with the Tynker community and explore projects made by other kids, as well.

18. BitsBox

Platforms: Subscription box

Pricing: $16.95 per month

Ages: 6-12

Best Because: BitsBox stands apart from the other games on the list as it is a monthly subscription box that includes unique materials on different computer science topics. Each month, your child receives a box that contains various coding projects, ranging from simple to advanced. With the materials, they type the given code into the connected app and then revise it to make it their own.

The apps and materials change each month, so there is always something new and exciting. BitsBox runs on any computer, phone, or tablet with a web browser.

19. Scratch

Platforms: Browser, Windows, Mac, Android

Pricing: Free

Ages: 8-16

Best Because: Designed by educators at MIT, Scratch is based on a programming language and an online community where children can learn the basics of coding as well as move on to more advanced topics and concepts.

Through the use of interactive games, stories, and animations, children are able to not only enhance their skills for programming, but they are also increasing their creativity, reasoning skills, and learning how to successfully collaborate on projects- all essential skills for 21st-century workers.

Recommended: Scratch Games for Kids

20. Botley the Coding Robot Activity Set

Platforms: Robot

Pricing: $50.56

Ages: 5-8

Best Because: Brought to you from educational leader Learning Resources, Botley is an interactive robot that introduces coding to young kids in a friendly, easy, and fun way. Without requiring a computer or tablet, children are able to program Botley for up to 80 steps, including more advanced programming commands like looping.

With advanced features and steps as well, Botley can grow with your child, becoming more challenging as it goes. Botley also includes black line follow mode where users can draw a line with any type of marker and he will follow along the path.

21. Code Master

Platforms: Board Game

Pricing: $22.08

Ages: 8+

Best Because: Code Master is a programming logic game that teaches kids the basics of coding- all without a computer! In the game, the player gets an Avatar that they have to navigate around the board.

The goal of the game is to help the Avatar travel around the exotic world in search of power Crystals, leading them to collect them all and land at the Portal. Code Master features 60 different levels, so the fun is never the same! It teaches programming basics as well as planning, sequential reasoning, and problem-solving skills.

22. CodeMonkey

Platforms: Browser

Pricing: Free Trial ($7/mo )

Ages: 5-14

Best Because: Originally designed as a classroom resource for teachers, CodeMonkey has expanded beyond the school walls and is available for anyone looking to learn coding skills.

Although you may be using it at home, CodeMonkey provides various insights for you that will help you monitor your child’s progress as well as assess their learning, even if you are completely unfamiliar with computer science. Another benefit? Learning how to code not only teaches children about IT, but it also nurtures logic, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills needed to be successful now and in the future.

23. CODE: On The Brink

Platforms: Board game

Pricing: $16.99

Ages: 8+

Best Because: On the Brink is part of a series of games that were designed to help kids build all of the skills necessary to be successful coders and understand even more advanced programming concepts down the line. Without the use of a screen, kids will be able to guide their robot along a path from start to finish, programming “procedures” which help it move along colored paths.

There are 40 different challenges that kids will come across, and their goal is to find the correct sequence of moves for each colored path. The board game teaches a variety of skills, including sequencing, problem-solving, and planning.

24. Goldieblox: Adventures in Coding

Platforms: iOS

Pricing: Free

Ages: 4+

Best Because: Recognized with The Toy Industry Association’s Toy of the Year and Apple’s iOS App of the Year awards, Goldieblox is shaking up the industry and challenging gender stereotypes with the world’s first girl engineer character. In this game, Goldie and her friend Ruby are trying to deliver cupcakes, but they need help getting directions for where to go.

Kids will have a blast programming the characters throughout town, and will learn all the basics of coding in the process. This game is inspiring for girls and shows them they truly can be anything they dream.

25. PlayShifu Tacto Coding Kit

Platform: Android, iOS, Amazon Fire

Price: $49.99

Ages: 4-10

Best Because: The TacoTo coding kit for young learners does more than direction-based coding. It teaches fundamental concepts of coding – inputs-output, loops, sequencing, decomposition, and branching. The kit comes with a silicone attachment and figurines that combine tactile play with programming in the app. As kids move their characters, they follow along on screen. There are over 200 levels of games, stories, and adventures that kids can try.

26. Osmo Coding

Platforms: iOS, Fire tablet + game system

Pricing: $49.60

Ages: 5-10

Best Because: Winner of both the Parent’s Choice Gold Award and the Oppenheim Best Toy Platinum Award, Osmo Coding is a hands-on game that connects the screen to real-life coding blocks. Through the use of the interactive gaming system, children can put their iPad in the Osmo base which senses what is placed in front of it.

They then use the coding blocks to map out commands, bringing the playful characters in the app on a fun adventure. Teaching logic and problem-solving skills as well as programming, Osmo Coding is an easy and engaging way to learn the basics.

27. LEGO Mindstorms

Platforms: iOS, Android

Pricing: Free

Ages: 7+

Best Because: Brought to you by the entertainment and toy giant, LEGO Mindstorms: Fix the Factory is an addictive puzzle game full of unexpected obstacles and unique challenges, pushing kids to expand their logical thinking skills, spatial intelligence, and their robot commanding skills.

Faced with the task of helping a robot make its way through a factory, your child will learn all of the basics of how programming works while trying to beat the clock. There are also incentives for completing the mission with the highest score, making it an exciting game more than an educational tool.

Best Coding Games for Kids in Middle School

28. Minecraft

Platforms: PC, Android, iOS, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Wii, PlayStation, Wii, Amazon Fire, Oculus

Pricing: $6.99 (Android & iOS), $29.99 (PC and Mac)

Ages: 10+

Best Because: Minecraft is one of the most popular programming games for kids out there, with currently over 100 million registered users. At its core, Minecraft is a game about placing blocks to make objects and going on adventures. But in reality, it is so much more than that.

Although the game’s visuals may look dated to us adults, children are drawn to its simple looks and unique graphics.

The beauty of Minecraft is that it truly gives children the freedom to create and explore almost limitlessly, while also giving them missions and goals, inspiring their problem-solving, creativity, and logical thinking at the same time.

29. Swift Playgrounds

Platforms: iOS

Pricing: Free

Ages: 11+

Best Because: Swift Playgrounds is an innovative game for the iPad that helps children learn and experiment with code through interactive puzzles. Based on the powerful programming language created by Apple and used by most professionals to create mobile applications, Swift Playgrounds provides a platform for experimentation and creativity while teaching the basic definitions, terms, functions, and directions of coding.

Players can use their own photos, images, sounds, and files within the program to make it uniquely theirs, while new coding challenges are regularly released to keep it evolving and changing.

30. Hopscotch

Platforms: iOS

Pricing: Free

Ages: 9-15

Best Because: With over 10 million downloads and more than 26 million games created and counting, Hopscotch is a platform for kids to explore projects and learn how to code and make their own games. Users also have the ability to access other people’s projects and play, tweak, or remix it, providing inspiration and collaboration through Hopscotch’s fully moderated community.

The app also has detailed video tutorials that teach them how to make popular games, increasing in difficulty as they become a better programmer.

31. Code Car

Platforms: Mac, Windows

Pricing: $48.99

Ages: 8-12

Best Because: Shaped like a car, Code Car is actually a computer that allows kids to program and control it. Whether it be turning on the headlights and taillights, or sounding the siren and brakes, all functions of the car can be programmed to perform in a certain way.

There is even a speaker in the middle of the car that can be coded to play horn sounds, car alarms, or ice cream truck songs. As these tasks are added to the Code Car, kids will be learning the real, typed coding language C++. The kit connects to a simple coding editor which works on Mac, Windows, or Chromebook.

32. Mimo

Platforms: Android, iOS

Pricing: Free

Ages: 11+

Best Because: Mimo is a convenient platform that provides bite-sized coding lessons, projects, and challenges in an engaging and interesting way. With Mimo, your child can learn to code, build websites, automate tasks, make apps, and more.

With daily goals, streaks, and achievement badges, kids will feel like they are playing a game more than taking an educational lesson. Mimo also features continuous extensions and updates, giving it a fresh face as your child progresses.

33. Lightbot

Platforms: iOS, Android, Kindle Fire

Pricing: $2.99 (iOS/Android)

Ages: All ages

Best Because: Featured by Apple in over 100 countries and winner of multiple awards, Lightbot is an exciting game that gets kids hooked on coding within minutes.

Categorized as a programming puzzle game, Lightbot requires the user to guide a robot to light up tiles and solve different levels using commands, all while cultivating a real understanding of basic programming concepts like procedures, loops, and conditionals. With 50 levels and 20 challenge stars to collect, kids will have a blast competing and learning in this game.

34. CodeMancer

Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iPad, and Kindle

Pricing: Free

Ages: 6-12

Best Because: CodeMancer uses a fantasy theme to teach the magic of coding. Kids code their way through a world of sorcerers and their minions. While learning about loops, functions, algorithms, and debugging, kids solve ancient puzzles and explore the world of magic! Kids will never experience syntax errors and they don’t have to read to play. This game has over 50 levels to keep the learning going.

35. Code Combat

Platforms: Browser

Pricing: Free

Ages: 9+

Best Because: Built for high school students, CodeCombat is a platform for students to learn computer science and programming skills while playing through a stimulating and real game. It’s an excellent coding game for kids and parents alike who have little to no coding experience, providing a medium that rewards productive struggle which results in successful learning.

Proven as a gaming challenge that encourages interaction, discovery, and trial-and-error, teens are sure to have hours of fun while figuring this one out.

36. Cargo-Bot

Platforms: iPad

Pricing: Free

Ages: 9-11

Best Because: This puzzle app requires teens to “be logical.” The game features a programmable robot and 36 puzzles. Teens must program the robot to move crates within each puzzle, with the puzzles ranging from easy to difficult. By playing the game, teens learn how to approach problems in order to solve them quickly and efficiently.

Recommended: Python Games Development for Kids

Best Coding Games for Teens (High School & Up)

37. CodeWars

Platform: Browser

Pricing: Free

Ages: 14+

Best Because: CodeWars uses the idea of small coding exercises called “kata”. Each kata is crafted by the community to help you strengthen different coding skills. Kids can master a current language of choice, or learn any of the 55+ programming languages supported.You can earn ranks and honors to level up and be seen on the leaderboards. It’s a great way to see new coding perspectives, learn new language, and challenge your peers.

38. Check Io

Platforms: Browser

Pricing: Free

Ages: 14+

Best Because: CheckiO games for beginners and advanced programmers where you can improve your coding skills by solving engaging challenges and fun task using Python and TypeScript. This game is played in the browser and organically integrates coding and learning as you complete missions. You can learn from other developers by seeing clear solutions to the same problem. This game does require solid reading and typing skills, so I recommend it for older students.

39. CodinGame

Platforms: Browser

Pricing: Free

Ages: 14+

Best Because: CodinGame is a great place to practice, but doesn’t provide any tutorial to learn the basics of programming from scratch. You can play with friends or compete internally. Practice and learn coding by solving fun challenges in 25+ languages addressing all the hot programming topics. CodinGame also has recruiters to help users find a job and practice programming interviews. This is great for older students who are interested in an internship or career in coding.

40. Codea

Platforms: iOS

Pricing: $14.99

Ages: 14+

Best Because: Codea is a code editor that allows you to create games and engaging simulations, turning your thoughts into interactive creations. Designed to teach coding for teens and older students, Codea is a visual code editor that actually lets one touch the code to alter or edit it.

Built on the Lua programming language, kids can type their code, press play to watch it run, then interact with it to see what happens, including changing the colors, adding images, and adjusting the sounds. Codea also allows sharing code across the community, so they can see other kids’ projects and explore or get inspired by them.

41. Hack ‘n’ Slash

Platforms: iOS

Pricing: $13.37

Ages: 14+

Best Because: This fun coding game combines programming and puzzles, all set within an engaging story. A wizard, presumably evil, has ordered everyone to stay in the village. Teens act as the villagers in the game, looking for ways to escape and overcome the wizard by reprogramming objects, changing story variables and creature behaviors, and rewriting the game’s code.

42. SpaceChem

Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Steam

Pricing: $9.99

Ages: 14+

Best Because: In this game, students act as a reactor engineer for SpaceChem, “the leading chemical synthesizer for frontier colonies.” This coding game employs puzzles and programming with an exciting story. The challenges vary, from constructing functional laboratories to meeting production quotas—all while surviving encounters with the “things” that haunt the SpaceChem facility.

Recommended: Coding for Kids, Free Resources

Kids Can Start Programming Games at Any Age

No matter what age your child or student is, coding is a skill that will benefit kids for the rest of their lives. Kids can even build and code their own games in our 12-week online coding classes. We teach coding for elementary school (grades 3-5), middle (grades 6-8), and high school (grades 9-12) students and no experience is necessary. In the summer, take an accelerated version of our classes in 3-week summer coding classes. Kids learn to code fun games and projects in every class using real-world languages like Python, JavaScript, and more!

By introducing and practicing coding concepts through entertaining games, kids will view learning as a treat instead of homework. With our list of top coding games for kids, your young engineer is on his or her way to a lifetime of learning.

The post 39 Best Coding Games For Kids 2024 appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.