Programmers use a specialized text editor called an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) when writing code. At CodeWizardsHQ, our Python classes use a custom IDE that make it possible for instructors to view their students’ code.

Choosing a Python IDE for kids is a mix of personal preference and performance. IDEs differ from rich text content authoring tools, like Microsoft Word or Google Docs. They focus solely on writing and running programs. The content’s margins, text formatting, and other presentational aspects are not the focus. 

[Download] Free Python Lesson Plans Get free 1-week Python lesson plans and slides for kids ages 11-13 to start learning about Python coding. Download Now

IDEs instead focus on syntax highlighting, error detection, IntelliSense, and running/debugging programs, among many other features. For a new Python programmer, choosing the right IDE can be a daunting task because there are hundreds of options! In this article, we’ll cover five Python IDEs that are kid-friendly and powerful enough for professional Python programmers.

Why Learn Python? 

When learning to code, picking a programming language is often the first step in a new programmer’s journey. There are many great options, but Python is a great choice for many new programmers (especially kids). Its simple syntax, abundant learning resources, and impressive extensibility through built-in and 3rd-party libraries make it easy to learn. 

Python programs are also cross-platform (meaning they run on Windows, Mac, and Linux) by default. They are executed directly from an IDE without an intermediate compilation step (required in languages like Java, C++, or C#). Get more information on why Python is a good choice for new programmers in our Python for Kids article!

What is a Python IDE for kids?

An IDE (Integrated Development Environment) is a powerful tool that programmers use to write, edit, debug, and execute programs. There are hundreds of IDEs to choose from, varying in complexity, pricing, and language focus. 

Kids learning Python programming should focus on IDEs that are simple to use and install and allow writing and executing Python programs with ease. In addition to IDEs, there are also dedicated coding text editors for writing and editing programs. These usually have a limited feature set and often expect programmers to debug or execute their programs in another environment. 

A full-featured IDE can be better for beginning Python programmers than a text editor. That’s because all programming tasks can be performed in a single place. This article has a detailed comparison, although the conclusions differ from our opinion). Once you’ve settled on an IDE, consider practicing your skills by working through our Python Projects for Kids or Python Game Development articles!

5 Best Python IDE for Kids

• Mu
• Visual Studio Code
• PyCharm
• IDLE
• Replit

Mu

Mu is a Python IDE that makes Python programming easier for beginners. There are helpful tutorials and how-to guides which aim to answer common questions. They also help prevent common roadblocks that beginner programmers often face when learning to code with an IDE. 

The Mu team is constantly refining the IDE based on feedback from teachers and learners. So, it should be the first choice for kids looking for the easiest option to begin learning Python. 

Download Mu

Visual Studio Code

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is one of the most popular general-purpose IDEs for programmers from beginners to professionals. Microsoft backs the team that builds VS Code and it’s led by a core contributor to the Python programming language, so the Python experience in the IDE is top-notch. 

You can bootstrap the IDE with dedicated Python resources for an enjoyable Python programming experience. In addition to official resources, many new Python tutorials will focus on using and configuring VS Code because it’s so popular.

Download VS Code

PyCharm

PyCharm is a dedicated Python IDE and is an industry-standard for professional Python developers. While not as beginner-friendly as the other IDEs in this article, PyCharm can be a good choice for kids who wants to get their hands dirty with a professional development experience while learning to code. 

Get to know the IDE’s many features in the dedicated knowledge base. It’s packed with tutorials, user guides, and other content. There is a paid version, but the community edition is more than adequate for someone beginning their programming journey. 

Download PyCharm

IDLE

IDLE is an IDE packaged with the Python programming language. If you download Python on your machine (for your operating system here), you also have IDLE installed. While it is the official IDE released by Python’s maintainers, the user interface is basic, and the feature set is minimal. This lack of features means that using IDLE is easy and requires almost no additional learning beyond some basic instructions. 

Because it lacks most mainstream IDE features, IDLE probably won’t be suitable as a student progresses in their programming journey. However, it’s a fine choice for someone learning Python for the first time. The folks at Real Python have a fantastic getting-started guide for working with IDLE.

Download Python (IDLE is packaged with the language)

Replit

Replit is a free online IDE that makes authoring, editing, and collaborating on Python projects easy. Unlike the other IDEs in this article, Replit runs in your web browser, so there’s nothing to download! Since the IDE is hosted online, you can easily share and collaborate on projects with anyone worldwide. 

An account is required, but it is free to sign up (although there are upgrades for paying customers). There are helpful learning resources and documentation to explain the wealth of features Replit provides, and the team is constantly improving the IDE based on user feedback.

Features of an IDE

Most IDEs have standard features like IntelliSense, linters, formatters, code runners, and debuggers. This section will discuss these key features all IDEs share, but this is not an exhaustive list! Explore your chosen IDE’s documentation to learn about all the features they offer. 

IntelliSense

IntelliSense is like auto-complete on steroids. It will give you suggestions as you type based on the programming language and any external libraries you’re using. Most IntelliSense implementations will suggest possible functions, variables, etc. Then it will show you helpful documentation once you’ve picked the appropriate programming structure. It saves a lot of time since you don’t have to constantly jump to the documentation for a particular language or feature while writing code!

Linters

A linter in an IDE is akin to a spelling or grammar checker in a program like Microsoft Word or Google Docs. Linters will check that your code conforms to common standards for the language you’re working in and will point out errors or make suggestions for improvement. Some programmers prefer to leave linters on while writing code; others like to run linters periodically to check their work. No matter which method you choose, use a linter to ensure you catch bugs before running your program!

Formatters

A formatter is an opinionated tool that deals with things like horizontal/vertical spacing, line length, brace/bracket placement, and other nitpicky details that affect the “look and feel” of the written code but not the program itself. Most languages have several options, and many large companies release their internal formatting standards (usually as a style guide), which programmers and programming teams adopt in their IDE’s formatter to ensure everyone follows similar patterns when writing code. If you’ve ever had to write a paper following a specific style guide (font size, font family, margins, etc.), think of formatters as performing the same role but for code.

Code Runners

While writing your program, you’ll want to run it constantly. IDEs allow you to author and execute code in the same place, which is a great time-saver. It’s also possible to write your program in an IDE and run it from another source (the command line is the most common). This can sometimes be advantageous depending on the steps you want to happen as before the program is executed (for example, if you need to pass command line arguments). Depending on your IDE choice, you may need to install dedicated language packs to execute programs in various languages from the IDE’s code runner.

Debuggers

A debugger allows you to set breakpoints at specific areas in your program and pause program execution to examine the state of variables or other entities in real time. Using a debugger can make bug-hunting much easier for a beginning programmer, but there is a bit of a learning curve. If you’re too intimidated to use a debugger when first learning, that’s OK! There’s always “print debugging,” where you print values in your program to ensure they hold what you expect.

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Kds ages 11-13 can start learning Python in a structured way. Download a FREE 1-week lesson plan with activities and slides. Enter your name and email to receive the free lesson plans in your inbox today.

Python Classes for Kids

Choosing an IDE is essential to learning to program, but it’s only the first step! Once you’ve found the IDE that fits your needs, the next step is learning to program in a structured environment and practicing your skills daily. 

CodeWizardsHQ has a structured curriculum for kids ages 8-18 that exposes them to various programming languages and application development patterns. In addition to our industry-leading curriculum, we also have a feature-rich browser-based IDE which students can use to work through our curriculum and build their own projects. There are many Python courses to choose from if you’re interested in learning to program with us!

The post Python IDE for Kids appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

While there are many different coding languages out there, few make as great of a starting point as Python for kids. In part, that’s because it is a fairly easy coding language to pick up. It’s also because it’s a powerful and flexible language. It can be used for a wide variety of projects, including some really fun Python games for kids! 

That’s really useful because while it’s technically possible to learn a coding language by memorizing all its different parts, it is far easier and way more fun to learn Python by working to build your own project. 

[Download] Free Python Lesson Plans Get free 1-week Python lesson plans and slides for kids ages 11-13 to start learning about Python coding. Download Now

Working through real problems and finding real solutions engages kids’ brains in ways that simple rote memorization just doesn’t. As Brian Tracy puts it, “Goals are the fuel in the furnace of achievement!”

There are several platforms that utilize gamification to teach Python. Sometimes it can be more helpful to simply choose a project you want to work on and jump right in!

If your child is just beginning their coding journey, coming up with a project idea that is both engaging enough to hold their attention and simple enough to be feasible can be tricky.

That’s why we’ve organized this list of 10 fun Python games for kids to code and play themselves.

10 Fun Python Games for Kids 

All games on this list were created using Python but they vary in how well the coding process is explained. Some of them have detailed step-by-step tutorials. Others lean more heavily on their student’s ability to do research on their own. Even so, any of these Python games could make a great coding project for kids learning to code!  

1. Pig Dice Game

Pig is a simple dice game played with a single die. Players take turns rolling the die to increase their score, and the first person to 30 wins. But watch out, if you roll a 1, you have to start over!

This is a perfect project for a beginner to tackle. The game itself only explores basic Python concepts like setting variables and generating random integers. Also, the Python code is very well documented in this tutorial.  

The code for the Pig Dice game doesn’t need elements from any external libraries, either. So, it’s a great game for kids looking for a beginner Python Project.

Play Pig Dice Game

2. Traffic vs. Zombie game 

The Traffic vs. Zombie game is essentially a clone of popular games like Frogger or Crossy Road, but built with Python. The tutorial breaks down the entire game-building process from start to finish. The article starts out with a great explanation of why you might choose to make a game using Python code. Even if your kid chooses a different game to build, the article is worth a read to get some inspiration!

This project is helpful for learning about skills like taking user input and coding collision logic. The end project is a great-looking game that doesn’t require a ton of advanced coding skills. This makes it perfect for kids early on in their coding journey!

Play Traffiv Vs. Zombie Game

3. Rock Paper Scissors Game 

Rock, Paper, Scissors is another classic game of chance and skill that can be replicated using Python. This project allows players to challenge the computer to throw hands. At the same time, they learn about accepting player input and using loop functions. 

Play Rock, Paper, Scissors Game

4. Asteroids Game 

Asteroids was one of my favorite games when I was a kid. I ended up playing different versions of it throughout my childhood. Taking it on as a Python project is a larger undertaking than some of the other games on this list. However, the end result is a game that your kid can be proud of! 

The Asteroids project is a bit more complicated than some of the others, but the tutorial is detailed enough to follow along.  

As an added bonus, the Asteroids game tutorial also makes use of the Pygame library. It’s a popular library used in the making of many different Python-based games. Since so much of coding in Python requires the use of libraries, learning how to use them well is an important coding skill.  

Play Asteroids Game

5. Color Game 

The rules of Color Game are pretty simple: type the color you see, not the name of the color that is written. However, it’s way trickier than it sounds at first because it challenges your logical brain to rely on your ability to sense color while ignoring the words you read! Luckily, coding the game is a lot more straightforward than playing it is. If your kid needs a little help making this project work, the code for a working version of Color Game is well-documented on its tutorial page. 

This game is a great way to explore skills like changing the colors of elements using Python code and adding a countdown timer to a project. 

Play Color Game

6. Tic Tac Toe Game 

There are few games as iconic as the classic game of Tic Tac Toe. It’s a battle of wits between two competitors, played out on a 3×3 square grid. The main goal is to place 3 of your own markers in a straight line before your opponent can do the same. 

This particular tutorial helps young coders to build a tic tac toe game that can be played either against the computer or against a second human player if you’re looking for a multiplayer experience.  

Tic Tac Toe is a perfect project for teaching how to use Python code to check if specific conditions have been met or not, and allow or disallow user inputs based on the results of that check. It is a little more complex than some of the other projects on this list, but a ton of fun to code, and even more to play!   

Play Tic Tac Toe Game

7. Snake Game 

In the era before smartphones, I’m afraid that I logged an embarrassing number of hours playing the game of Snake. And now, thanks to the power of Python, so can your kid! 

For those who are unaware, Snake is a game where the player moves a snake across their screen on a mission to eat as many apples as possible without accidentally biting its own tail. Each apple makes the snake’s tail longer, and therefore more difficult to avoid. 

Snake is a great game for practicing setting and checking xy coordinates using Python. The tutorial for this game is a bit less in-depth than some of the others on this page, but the entirety of the code is there in case your kid needs some help. 

Play Snake Game

8. Dot Connect Game 

The Dot Connect game is another classic pencil-and-paper game. It gets a whole new electronic lease on life through Python coding.

The code for this one lays out a 9×9 grid of dots for two players to draw their lines on, one at a time. Players score points by completing squares and the game ends when there are no longer lines to draw on the grid. 

It’s a surprisingly strategic game for such a simple concept. It is a great way to learn more about using Python to check for objects within set distances.   

Like with the Snake game, the code is all listed out for your kid to see. However, there’s not a lot in the way of guidance provided on the different lines of code. It’s a bit complex but makes a great coding project for motivated kids to do their own research. 

Play Dot Connect Game

9. Egg Catcher Game 

In Egg Catcher, players move a basket back and forth and attempt to catch eggs falling from the sky. Where are these eggs coming from? From the code, of course!

Coders can see the source code for the game but will have to figure out what the different lines of code actually do on their own or with the help of a quick internet search. It can be a bit challenging as a first project, but with a little practice, reading the lines of code should begin to seem natural! 

This a great project for learning how to make it look like objects are falling and for practicing with collision logic to check if the eggs were successfully caught!

Play Egg Catcher Game

10. Fidget Spinner 

Fidget Spinner is slightly different from the other games on this list. While there is an interactive element to it, there’s not really a condition for winning or losing. The finished code ends up being more of a toy to play with than a game. 

This project explores concepts of increasing and decreasing the speed of different elements based on the presence or lack of user input.  

Of course, the real fun in learning to code the spinner is in getting to see the code you wrote working as intended! 

Play Fidget Spinner Game

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Python Classes for Kids

Any one of these fun Python games for kids would make a great project to work towards at the beginning of a Python coding journey. However, it should be noted that learning Python on your own can be significantly more difficult than learning from a live teacher who already knows how to code. 

That’s what’s so great about CodeWizardHQ’s Python classes for kids! The classes are done in a virtual classroom with a live teacher, so there’s always someone for kids to turn to when they need a hand. It really gives young coders a leg up and helps them learn how to code more effectively from the get-go, without needing to learn it the hard way. 

Plus, CodeWizardsHQ’s classes cover a lot more than just coding in Python. They give students a wider, more well-rounded picture of what coding looks like in the real world. 

If you’re interested in providing your kids with the best possible coding education around, I highly recommend enrolling them in CodeWizardsHQ’s Python classes for kids. 

The post Python Games for Kids to Code appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Whether you love them or hate them, dads always have them at the ready. It’s the classic dad joke. 

We’ve turned dad’s favorite jokes into a Python app, so anyone can tell a great dad joke at any time. The Random Dad Joke App picks an awesome dad joke from a database and shows it to you so you can deliver the punchline. These jokes are so bad and corny, they might actually make you laugh! 

[Download] Free Python Lesson Plans Get free 1-week Python lesson plans and slides for kids ages 11-13 to start learning about Python coding. Download Now

Complete this Python coding tutorial to build your own Random Dad Joke App.

Make your friends and family laugh with a few funny dad jokes.

See the completed Random Dad Joke App.

What you need:

1. Text editor

We’ll be using the CodeWizardsHQ editor to write and run our Python code. If you’re a CodeWizardsHQ student, download the x_hour_of_code_2022 project for the completed code. 

You can also use an online text editor like replit that allows you to author and run Python programs in a web browser.

2. An empty Python file

Create a new empty Python file and add your code there. 

Our file is named main.py, and if you’re a CWHQ student you must use this name. If you’re using another platform to write and execute your code, you can choose whichever name you like.

This tutorial is for beginner Python programmers ages 11+. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Display a welcome message to the user

Display a message to the users that explains how the Random Dad Joke app works.

• Create a variable called welcome_message that equals a multi-line string. This string contains your welcome message and instructions.

welcome_message = """
    Welcome to the 'Random Dad Joke' app!

    This app uses an API to fetch a random setup
    and punchline to a dad joke. The setup will
    be displayed to you, and if you guess the punchline,
    a message like "That's correct!" will be displayed.
    Otherwise, you'll be shown the punchline.
"""

• Use the print() function to display this message on the page. Note, the ... symbols are just there to make the code easier to read. Don’t type that!

welcome_message = """
  ...
"""

print(welcome_message)

Hint: Change the message inside the “”” to personalize your welcome message.

Step 1 Output:

Step 2: Display the options the app accepts

Show the user the possible options the app accepts and prompt them for their choice.

• Create a Python string representing the options for your user: 1) get a dad joke or 2) exit

welcome_message = """
  ...
"""

options = "(1) Get Dad Joke (2) Exit: "

print(welcome_message)

• Add a while loop that shows the user the options.
• Convert the user’s response to an int (integer) data type so we can easily process their choice. It’s much easier to compare integers versus string values that may have spaces, different casing, etc.

print(welcome_message)

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))

• Add a break statement to exit the loop after the options are displayed. This stops the options from being continuously presented.

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))
    break

Hint: Create more options as an additional challenge.

Step 2 Output:

Step 3: Process the user’s choice

Next, we want the users to choose an option by entering the number 1 or 2 and we will execute their choice. 

• Create named constants for each option: GET_JOKE if they select 1 and EXIT if they select 2

options = "(1) Get Dad Joke (2) Exit: "

GET_JOKE = 1
EXIT = 2

print(welcome_message)

while True:
    ...

• Now we can add logic for each choice and remove the break statement from the while loop.

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))
    break  # Remove this!

• Add an if...elif conditional statement to handle both user options. 
• If the user selects 1, we’ll want to show a joke. For now, use the pass statement in the GET_JOKE condition. We’ll implement the logic for that statement at a later time. 
• If the user selects 2, they exit the game. Make sure the EXIT option exits the loop with the break statement! 

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))

    if user_choice == GET_JOKE:
        pass
    elif user_choice == EXIT:
        break

Hint: Create more options as an additional challenge.

Step 3 Output:

Step 4: Get a random dad joke from the Dad Jokes API

Now, let’s get retrieve some hilarious dad jokes! We will be connecting to a CodeWizardsHQ API that holds a database of jokes.

• Define a function called get_random_joke(). Function definitions go at the top of your file, before any variable declarations or other statements in the main area of your program.
• Inside the function, create three variables: BASE_URL, endpoint, and request_url using the values listed below. The BASE_URL represents the location on the internet where the API lives. The endpoint is a special URL path that the API provides to get a random joke. The request_url combines the BASE_URL and endpoint into a single str representing the full URL that we’ll request data from.

def get_random_joke():
    BASE_URL = "https://dad-joke-api.apps.codewizardshq.com"
    endpoint = "/random/jokes"

    request_url = f"{BASE_URL}{endpoint}"

welcome_message = """
    ...
"""

• Use from to import the urlopen() function from the urllib.request module. This is a built-in Python module for making requests over a network. Import statements always come first, at the very top of your file.

from urllib.request import urlopen


def get_random_joke():
    ...

• Use a with statement and the urlopen() function to make a request to the Dad Jokes API (at the request_url) and save the API’s response in a response variable. The with statement is a context manager, and it allows us to safely deal with opening and closing a network request. 

from urllib.request import urlopen


def get_random_joke():
    BASE_URL = "https://dad-joke-api.apps.codewizardshq.com"
    endpoint = "/random/jokes"

    request_url = f"{BASE_URL}{endpoint}"

    with urlopen(request_url) as response:
        joke = response.read()

• After the with statement, display the contents of the joke variable with the print function.

def get_random_joke():
    ...
    with urlopen(request_url) as response:
        joke = response.read()

    print(joke)

• Going back to the while loop, call the get_random_joke() function when the user chooses GET_JOKE.

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))

    if user_choice == GET_JOKE:
        get_random_joke()
    elif user_choice == EXIT:
        break

Hint: If you see a really long response when trying to get a dad joke, wait about 10 seconds and then try again. The API has to “wake up” from being asleep if it hasn’t been used recently!

Step 4 Output:

Step 5: Correctly format the data from the Dad Jokes API

Now we have the information (the joke) from the API, we need to format it in a way users can read it.

• At the top of your file, import the loads() function from Python’s built-in JSON module.

from urllib.request import urlopen
from json import loads


def get_random_joke():
    ...

• In the get_random_joke() function, use the loads() function to ensure the response is converted to a dict. The dict data structure maps keys to values and will make it easy to get the setup and punchline from the API response.

def get_random_joke():
    ...

    with urlopen(request_url) as response:
        joke = loads(response.read())

    print(joke)

Hint: An API is an application programming interface which allows interactions between multiple software programs. Programmers (you!) then have access to data and info from external software (CodeWizardsHQ’s dad joke database).

Step 5 Output:

Step 6: Return the setup and punchline from the get_random_joke() function

Now, let’s separate the setup and the punchline as we will want to present them independently later. 

• Remove the print() statement from the get_random_joke() function. 

def get_random_joke():
    ...
    with urlopen(request_url) as response:
        joke = loads(response.read())

    print(joke) # Remove this!

• Use the return statement to send the setup and punchline out of the function. Separating return values with a comma (,) allows you to send multiple values out of a function easily. The [] allow you to pull the values from the dict based on a key (the “setup” and “punchline” strings are the keys).

def get_random_joke():
    ...
    with urlopen(request_url) as response:
        joke = loads(response.read())

    return joke["setup"], joke["punchline"]

• In the while loop, create the setup and punchline variables. You can use multiple assignment to store both the setup and punchline returned from get_random_joke(). Whenever a function returns multiple values, you can use this syntax to assign the values to variables in one line. You just need to make sure to have variables for every value and place them in the same order that the values are returned from the function.

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))

    if user_choice == GET_JOKE:
        setup, punchline = get_random_joke()
    elif user_choice == EXIT:
        break

• Use f-strings and the special f"{variable_name=}" syntax to ensure each variable represents the values you expect.

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))

    if user_choice == GET_JOKE:
        setup, punchline = get_random_joke()
        print(f"{setup=}")
        print(f"{punchline=}")
    elif user_choice == EXIT:
        break

Hint: An f-string is a formatted string literal. It lets you include the value of a variable inside a string with the prefix “f”.

Step 6 Output:

Step 7: Ask the user to guess the punchline and tell them if they’re right or wrong

After the user selects 2, we will prompt them to guess the punchline and also check if they guessed correctly.

• In the while loop, remove the f-strings that displayed the setup and punchline with the f"{variable_name=}" syntax.

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))

    if user_choice == GET_JOKE:
        setup, punchline = get_random_joke()

        print(f"{setup=}")      # Remove this!
        print(f"{punchline=}")  # Remove this!

    elif user_choice == EXIT:
        break

• Use print() to display the setup and prompt the user to guess the punchline.
• Create a variable called user_guess that stores the user’s response.

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))

    if user_choice == GET_JOKE:
        setup, punchline = get_random_joke()
        print(setup)

        user_guess = input("Guess the punchline: ")
    elif user_choice == EXIT:
        break

• Using an if...else conditional statement, display a message like “That’s correct!” if the user guessed the punchline correctly. Otherwise, display a message like “Sorry, that wasn’t the punchline.” and then display the punchline.

while True:
    user_choice = int(input(options))

    if user_choice == GET_JOKE:
        setup, punchline = get_random_joke()
        print(setup)

        user_guess = input("Guess the punchline: ")

        if user_guess == punchline:
            print("That's correct!")
        else:
            print("Sorry, that wasn't the punchline.")
            print(f"The punchline was: {punchline}")

    elif user_choice == EXIT:
        break

Hint: Change the text inside the print() function to customize your user message.

Step 7 Output:

Your app is complete!

Check out the finished Random Dad Joke App.

Download the project files and open main.py to view the completed project.

Now, you’re ready with a great dad joke in every situation. 

Download 1-Week Python Lesson Plans

Kds ages 11-13 can start learning Python in a structured way. Download a FREE 1-week lesson plan with activities and slides. Enter your name and email to receive the free lesson plans in your inbox today.

If you want to build games and apps in Python, join CodeWizardsHQ’s live coding classes for kids. It’s the most fun and effective way for kids to learn Python and advance to a real-world coding internship. 

Students in our middle school and high school core track start by learning fundamental coding concepts in Python. They work with a live, expert instructor who supports them every step of the way. Classes are engaging and you’ll build personalized projects and applications in every lesson. 

No matter how you do it, we encourage you to keep practicing your Python!

The post Python Tutorial for Kids: Random Dad Joke App appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

“Pig” is an easy and fun dice game that anyone in the family can play. You only need one die in hand and know basic arithmetic to play the game. It’s an entertaining way for kids to practice adding and learn about probability.

[Download] Free Python Lesson Plans Get free 1-week Python lesson plans and slides for kids ages 11-13 to start learning about Python coding. Download Now

If there’s no one around to play with, you can challenge the computer! Build your own “Pig” game using Python that you can play anytime. This simple app will roll the dice for you and the computer and add up your points too. All you have to do is click.

Complete this Python coding tutorial to make your own “Pig” Dice Game.

This is a beginner Python tutorial that will walk you through all of the code from start to finish.

Play the completed “Pig” Dice Game. 

What you need:

1. Text editor

We’ll be using the CodeWizardsHQ editor to write and run our Python code. If you’re a CodeWizardsHQ student, download the x_hour_of_code_2022 project for the completed code. 

You can also use an online text editor like replit that allows you to author and run Python programs in a web browser.

2. An empty Python file

Create a new empty Python file and add your code there. 

Our file is named main.py. If you’re using another platform to write and execute your code, you can choose whichever name you like.

This tutorial is for beginner Python programmers ages 11+. It assumes you understand basic Python code. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Create and display a welcome message with the game rules

We’ll begin by displaying a welcome message to the user that explains the rules of “Pig”, the dice game we’ll build in this project.

• Create a multi-line string representing the game rules of “Pig” and store this string inside a variable called welcome_message.

welcome_message = """
          Welcome to 'Pig', a dice game!
   
    In this game, a user and a computer opponent
    roll a 6-sided die each round. If the value of
    the die is a 1, the player that rolled the 1 loses
    all of their points. Otherwise, the player gets the
    value of the die added to their points. The first
    player to reach 30 points wins!
"""

• Use Python’s built-in print() function to display the welcome_message. Note, don’t type the … characters, those are used to hide unnecessary code from an example!

welcome_message = """
        ...
"""

print(welcome_message)

Step 1 Output:

Step 2: Get the user’s name and create the game loop

Prompt the user for their name, create a game loop, and allow the user to roll the dice.

• Create a variable called username.
• Use the input() function to prompt the user for their name and store it in the variable.

welcome_message = """
        ...
"""

print(welcome_message)

username = input("What is your name? ")

• Create a while loop to represent the game loop.
• Inside the while loop, use the input() function to prompt the user to press “Enter” to roll the die.

username = input("What is your name? ")

while True:
    input(f"Press 'Enter' to roll the die {username}!\n")

• Add a break statement to ensure the loop only runs once. We do this while building a game to make it easy to test out our game logic once and then exit.

while True:
    input(f"Press 'Enter' to roll the die {username}!\n")

    break

Hint: Ask any question you like and get the input from the user. The \n notation adds an additional new line which makes our output look a little nicer.

Step 2 Output:

Step 3: Simulate rolling dice

Simulate rolling a six-sided die and display the player’s and computer’s roll.

• Import the randint() function from Python’s built-in random module. This function allows us to generate random numbers, which we’ll use to “fake” rolling a six-sided die. Imports should always appear at the top of your file, before any other code.

from random import randint


welcome_message = """
    ...
"""

• In the while loop, use the randint() function to generate a random number between 1 and 6. Store this number in a player_die_value and use an f-string to display the username and player_die_value.

while True:
    input(f"Press 'Enter' to roll the die {username}!\n")

    player_die_value = randint(1, 6)
    print(f"{username} rolls a {player_die_value}")

    break

• Use the randint() function to generate another random number between 1 and 6. Store this number in a computer_die_value and use an f-string to display the computer_die_value. Note that the break statement still needs to be the last thing in the while loop.

while True:
    input(f"Press 'Enter' to roll the die {username}!\n")

    player_die_value = randint(1, 6)
    print(f"{username} rolls a {player_die_value}")

    computer_die_value = randint(1, 6)
    print(f"Computer rolls a {computer_die_value}")

    break

Step 3 Output:

Step 4: Create a function to update the scores of each player

Now, let’s calculate and track the player’s and computer’s score after each roll. We’ll create a function to determine whether each player gets points added to their score or gets their score reset to 0.

• Create two variables to hold the scores of our players: player_score and computer_score. Each variable should initially be set to 0 because our players start with no points.

player_score = 0
computer_score = 0

welcome_message = """
    ...
"""

• Define a function at the top of your file called update_score(). It should take two parameters: score and die_value. We’ll use this function to return 0 if the die_value is 1 and the sum of the score and die_value for any other die_value. Function definitions always go at the top of your file, after any import statements.

from random import randint


def update_score(score, die_value):



player_score = 0
computer_score = 0

• In the body of the update_score() function, add an if…else conditional statement. We’ll return 0 if the die_value is 1, and the sum of the score and die_value for any other case. The return statement lets us send a value out of a function that can be used by the function caller.

def update_score(score, die_value):

    if die_value == 1:
        return 0
    else:
        return score + die_value

• In the while loop, use update_score with the player and computer’s score and die values. Store the return values in player_score and computer_score variables.

while True:
    ...

    computer_die_value = randint(1, 6)
    print(f"Computer rolls a {computer_die_value}")

    player_score = update_score(player_score, player_die_value)
    computer_score = update_score(computer_score, computer_die_value)

    break

• Use the f-string syntax f”{variable_name=}” syntax to test that the player_score and computer_score take on the value you’d expect based on the die value of each player. That special syntax prints the variable name along with its value, and is a handy debugging tool when you’re developing a program and want to confirm a variable’s value! Note that the break statement still needs to be the last line of the while loop.

while True:
    ...

    player_score = update_score(player_score, player_die_value)
    computer_score = update_score(computer_score, computer_die_value)

    print(f"{player_score=}")
    print(f"{computer_score=}")

    break

Step 4 Output:

Step 5: Display a formatted scoreboard

In this step, we’ll make our game feel a bit more realistic by creating and displaying a scoreboard each round that holds the current score.

• At the top of your file, create a function called display_scoreboard() that takes two parameters: player_score and computer_score. 

def update_score(score, die_value):
    ...


def display_scoreboard(player_score, computer_score):

• In the body of the display_scoreboard() function, use print() statements to display a formatted scoreboard. Empty print() statements give us some newline padding between calls to display_scoreboard().

def display_scoreboard(player_score, computer_score):

    print()
    print("#" * 20)
    print(f"Player Score: {player_score}")
    print(f"Computer Score: {computer_score}")
    print("#" * 20)
    print()

• In the while loop, remove the print() statements that displayed the player_score and computer_score.

while True:
    ...

    player_score = update_score(player_score, player_die_value)
    computer_score = update_score(computer_score, computer_die_value)

    print(f"{player_score=}")    # Remove this!
    print(f"{computer_score=}")  # Remove this!

    break

• Use the display_scoreboard() function to display your formatted scoreboard. The break statement still needs to be the final statement in your while loop.

while True:
    ...

    player_score = update_score(player_score, player_die_value)
    computer_score = update_score(computer_score, computer_die_value)

    display_scoreboard(player_score, computer_score)

    break

Hint: You can create multiple copies of a string in Python using the star (*) operator, which is a handy tool for building our scoreboard banner.

Step 5 Output:

Step 6: Determine the game winner

In the final step, we’ll check the scores of each player at the end of our game loop and determine who wins! The first player to reach 30 points is the winner.

• At the end of the while loop, remove the break statement.

while True:
    ...

    player_score = update_score(player_score, player_die_value)
    computer_score = update_score(computer_score, computer_die_value)

    display_scoreboard(player_score, computer_score)

    break  # Remove this!

• Add an if…elif conditional statement to determine the winner. Each conditional body should display the respective winner and exit the while loop with a break statement.

while True:
    ...

    display_scoreboard(player_score, computer_score)

    if player_score >= 30:
        print(f"{username} wins!")
        break
    elif computer_score >= 30:
        print("Computer wins!")
        break

Step 6 Output:

Hint: We didn’t handle ties in this version, but challenge yourself to do that with another “if” statement.

Your game is complete!

Check out the finished project.

Download the project files and open main.py to view the completed project.

We’ve built a simple version together, but there’s plenty more you can do to customize and upgrade your version of “Pig”. 

Download 1-Week Python Lesson Plans

Kids, ages 11-13, can start learning Python in a structured way. Download a FREE 1-week lesson plan with activities and slides. Enter your name and email to receive the free lesson plans in your inbox today.

If you want to build more games and apps in Python, join CodeWizardsHQ’s live coding classes for kids. It’s the most fun and effective way for kids to learn Python and advance to a real-world coding internship. 

Students in our middle school and high school core track start by learning fundamental coding concepts in Python. They work with a live, expert instructor who supports them every step of the way. Classes are engaging and you’ll build personalized projects and applications in every lesson. 

Enjoy this project!

The post Python Tutorial for Kids: “Pig” Dice Game appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Building Python projects for kids is one of the best ways to solidify programming fundamentals and learn new techniques if you’re beginning your journey as a Python programmer. 

In programming, as in many other disciplines, practice makes perfect. Programming is about doing and, for programmers, that means sitting at the keyboard writing code.

View 10 Beginner Python Projects for Kids

Once you gain confidence following step-by-step tutorials to code projects, you can start to modify these projects to your liking or create projects from scratch without instructions. 

Don’t be afraid to work on projects; that’s how you’ll learn and grow as a programmer!

Fun Python Projects For Kids and Beginners

At CodeWizardsHQ, we focus on learning fundamental programming concepts through building simple projects. Our coding classes take a project-based approach (as opposed to an exercise-based one) that helps to keep kids engaged and see the practical use cases of each new programming concept as they learn them. Kids will have many projects to showcase and reference after completing each course. Using something you’ve programmed is much more satisfying than pointing to a bunch of stale exercises you finished!

If you’re hitting a roadblock on what to build, try one of these fun Python projects for kids and beginners. You’ll practice core Python skills while also creating something useful, or at least fun. These projects will get your creative juices flowing and inspire your own Python project ideas.

10 Beginner Python Projects for Kids

[Download] Python Projects Source Code Get the full source code for all ten Python project examples. Download Now

1. Mad Libs

Mad Libs is a popular game where you fill in the blanks in a sentence with a type of word (verb, noun, adjective, etc.) and the sentence changes depending on which word you pick for each type. This app allows you to create the Mad Lib (or use the one we’ve provided) and prompt a user to fill in the blanks.

Mad Libs

Python Skills:

• Multiline strings
• Getting user input
• f-strings
• Printing data

2. Guess The Number

Working with randomness and loops is important when programming, and a “Guess The Number” app allows you to practice both concepts. In this app, you’ll ask a user to repetedly guess a number between 1 and 10 and tell them if they are too high or too low. The user can keep guessing the number until they get it right. At the end, the user is told how many turns it took them to guess the number.

Python Skills:

• Random numbers
• Boolean values
• Counter-controlled repetition with for loops
• Conditional logic
• Incrementing a value in a variable
• Converting user input to int

Guess The Number

3. Random Nickname Generator

In this project, you’ll prompt a user for their first and last names and then you’ll insert a random nickname between their first and last names. Although it sounds simple, you’ll be using many core programming concepts to get this app to work!

Python Skills:

• Modules
• Variables
• Multiline strings
• Getting user input
• Using f-strings
• Lists
• Getting random values from a list

Random Nickname Generator

4. Quiz App

This project allows users to take a quiz to test their knowledge of different programming langauges. The number of correct/incorrect answers are tracked and the user recieves different messages depending on how well they did on the quiz.

Python Skills:

• Dictionaries
• Looping through dictionaries
• Using len() to get the length of a sequence
• Incrementing a numeric value
• Conditional statements

Quiz App

5. Strong Password Generator

When browsing the internet, you’re often asked to create a user account with a strong password to protect your account from hackers. In this app, you’ll learn how to create strong, secure passwords using Python!

Python Skills:

• The string module
• Generating random integers
• Creating named constants for options
• for loops and counter-controlled repetition
• Conditional statements
• Building str with +=
• Converting user input to int with int()

Strong Password Generator

6. Python Chatbot

Chatbots are very common these days, and Python can be used to program a simple or sophisticated chatbot. The chatbot in this app will respond to a few standard commands and do things like give users a random fact and perform simple math operations.

Python Skills:

• Conditional statements
• Selecting random items from a list
• Indefinite looping
• Ending a loop with the break statement
• str methods
• Lists

Python Chatbot

7. Atbash Cipher

Python is a popular language for cybersecurity professionals, and a cipher app is a good way to practice some basic cryptography skills. In this app, a user can encrypt or decrypt a phrase using the Atbash cipher, which is one of the oldest substitution ciphers in existence. 

Python Skills:

• User-defined functions 
• Function parameters, return values
• Looping through a sequence with for loops
• Complex conditional statements
• Membership testing with the in operator
• str methods
• Indexing str
• Method chaining

Atbash Cipher

8. Video Game Browser

Python excels at sifting through large datasets. In this app, a user can browse a large dataset of video game data and search through the data using a keyword to pull relevant results matching that keyword.

Python Skills:

• Reading CSV files
• Multiple assignment
• Building a list by iterating through a sequence
• Indefinite loops
• Conditional statements
• f-strings

Video Game Browser

9. Random Dad Jokes

Everyone loves a good dad joke, right? In this app, you’ll see how Python is can be used to pull data from an external API (Application Programming Interface) and use that data to make something goofy like a random dad joke generator. 

Python Skills:

• Requesting data from an API
• Parsing JSON data
• Dictionaries
• User-defined functions
• Indefinite loops
• Conditional statements
• User input

Random Dad Jokes

10. Current Weather App

Have you ever left the house without your umbrella, only to get covered in rain? In this app, you’ll see how Python can be used to pull weather data from an API based on a user’s current location. 

Python Skills:

• Requesting data from an API that requires an API key
• Parsing JSON data
• Dictionaries
• User-defined functions
• Indefinite loops
• Encoding query parameters

Current Weather App

Download Python Projects Source Code

If you want to see the source code behind these 10 Python projects, download the full code for free. These code examples are great for practicing skills you’ve learned and inspiring your own custom projects. 

What can a kid do with Python?

Python is a versatile, general-purpose programming language. You can build nearly any kind of app in Python, but the most common uses are web development, data science, AI/ML, cybersecurity, scientific computing, and automation. 

Here are some types of apps you’ll often see Python used to create:

• Server-side logic of web applications
• Visualizations based on large datasets
• Using AI/ML to assist physicians as they diagnose diseases
• Analyzing malware that hackers use to attack vulnerable users
• Determining ancient weather patterns through analysis of climate patterns
• Automating repetitive tasks to improve productivity

Free Python Project Resources

Due to its popularity, there are hundreds of free resources on the web for learning Python. Some are interactive and proceed in small chunks, while others are more academic-focused and go very deep into the language. Whatever your level of experience or interest, there’s something for you in the Python learning ecosystem! Here are some excellent resources for learning Python:

• The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Python
• Exercism
• The Python Tutorial
• Real Python
• FreeCodeCamp
• Coursera
• Python Basics
• Invent Your Own Computer Games with Python
• Think Python
• Codecademy

Kids Can Learn to Code in Python

You can learn to code Python apps like those shown above at CodeWizardsHQ. We teach Python (and HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and SQL) throughout our structured coding classes (in elementary, middle, and high school). We even have a three-course track devoted solely to learning Python if you only want to work in one programming language. 

Our online classes for Python meet weekly and are taught by a live instructor in a small group setting (typically 4 to 6 students per class). We believe everyone can be a programmer, and we’re excited to show you how much you can learn!

The post 10 Beginner Python Projects for Kids appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

One of the most common reasons that our students enroll in our coding classes for kids is because they are interested in game development. And why not? The gaming industry as a whole is projected to reach 285 billion U.S. dollars in 2027 and that number is only going to increase over time. Without a doubt, the gaming industry has viable job opportunities for teens looking to get into coding.

[Download] Free Python Lesson Plans Get free 1-week Python lesson plans and slides for kids ages 11-13 to start learning about Python coding. Download Now

But games can be coded in many different programming languages, which can make it difficult to know which one to start with. 

With its easy-to-read syntax, a variety of useful code libraries, and its use in a number of popular games, Python is a great starting point for coding a game.   

Is Python Good for Game Development?

So, let’s get down to the heart of the subject!

Is Python even any good for game development? For beginner game developers, Python is a great coding language to start with for a few reasons:

• Easy to understand syntax
• Ability to reuse code
• Easy to debug

While large game studios use languages that offer more speed and allow for better graphics, Python has a lot going for it that makes it an especially useful language for game development. Python is very commonly used by large game studios for game prototyping, which means the original version of some of your favorite games may very well have been written in Python before getting re-made in a faster language. 

In addition, large games may supplement their codebase with Python for specific components of their game. Battlefield 2 uses Python for the implementation of scorekeeping and team balancing while Civilization 4 has its inner logic and AI written using Python. Games with large databases like these can schedule Cron jobs to automate Python scripts that back up essential game data.

Interestingly, the same properties that make Python a great starting point for the pros are what make it such a great language for beginners taking their first steps into game-making. 

Easy to Understand Syntax

Possibly the best reason for developing games using Python is the relative ease of the language because it is written much like English. 

Python is one of the simplest coding languages to write and to read, making it a great starting point for all sorts of coding activities. Having an easy to write language is super helpful for tasks where the speed of development matters. 

For large game studios, this means being able to quickly make a prototype of a game to see if it’s worth developing further. It saves a ton of time compared to starting in a language like C++, which means that that time (and money) can be used where it matters. 

For beginning coders, development speed can matter even more. Using a simpler language to make a game can be the difference between development taking days or taking weeks. Especially when learning, being able to see results quickly can be just the encouragement needed to keep going!

Ability to Reuse Code

Another major point in favor of writing a game in Python is its ability to reuse large chunks of code. 

Python is an object-oriented coding language, which means that it can take a piece of prepared code and use it wherever it’s needed. This is incredibly useful and results in many fewer lines of code in the finished game. Fewer lines of code means less time re-writing the same code throughout the project and less time spent in development overall. 

More importantly, it also gives you the ability to use code written by other developers through the use of Python’s extremely large ecosystem of code libraries. 

Lots of different coding languages are object-oriented. However, the depth and breadth of Python’s libraries mean that for any problem you’re trying to solve, there’s a great chance that someone else has already written code that can handle it! 

This is great not only for lowering the overall amount of work going into the game but also for learning the skills needed to deal with all sorts of problems.

Easy to Debug

A third major reason for using Python for game development is how it makes the debugging process easier. Debugging is the process of looking for and fixing errors in your code.

Since Python is already one of the easier coding languages to read and write, it makes sense that it would be simpler to debug than other languages, but there’s more to it than just that. 

Python is what is called an interpreted language. That means that instead of being compiled before being run, the code is executed directly. There are pros and cons to that, but one of the major benefits is that an error in the code will stop the code’s execution and provide a single error message. 

Being able to focus on a single error, solve it, and move on is a huge help in keeping debugging manageable. 

Recommended: Python for Kids

Popular Games Made with Python

Learning why Python is useful for coding games is all well and good, but being able to see how those advantages have been used in the real world is even better. 

While tons of studios use Python for prototyping, there are a number of great games that use Python as an integral part of their game. Here are some fan favorites.

EVE Online

EVE Online, for those not familiar, is a space-based MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game) with an emphasis on the “massive.” Players in the EVE universe can engage in trade-based gameplay like mining, manufacturing, and a player-driven market, or they can focus on exploration, combat, and even piracy! 

This game depends heavily on a fork of Python called Stackless Python. 

Disney’s ToonTown Online 

Disney’s ToonTown Online was developed with Python and uses the Panda3D game engine for its graphics. It’s an MMORPG set in a cartoon-based world where you get to explore and fight.  You can tell that it’s aimed at a younger demographic, but it is also a well-made game and a great example of the flexibility possible using Python. 

Battlefield 2

Battlefield 2 is a great example of a game developed by a large gaming company that is dependent on Python to run. It was a major first-person shooter type game exploring a fictional world war. It’s an older game at this point, and no longer has operational multiplayer servers, but much of the game’s functioning depended on Python code. 

Sid Meier’s Civilization IV

The Civilization games are the shining standard for what strategy games should be, and Civilization IV is no exception. These games are chock-full of interesting components, but one of the best parts is the ability to design and play your own maps with friends. 

The map editor used to make that experience possible depends on Python. 

Frets on Fire

Frets on Fire is an open-source musical video game similar to Guitar Hero. The basic idea is to time specific button presses to the action on the screen to perform music. 

This game was written in Python and is an excellent example of what can be done with the language. The game itself is available under the GNU license as free software, and you can look directly at the code used to write it on Sourceforge. 

What Are the Best Python Game Engines

Ready to take Python for a spin? 

The first step in developing a Python-based game is deciding which game engine you want to use. Game engines provide the software framework to build and run video games and often include development tools as well. There are many different game engines to choose from, so it’s not a simple decision. Since each one does different things better or worse than others, choosing the right engine is a big part of making games with Python. 

Here are some of the best options for some of the more common development situations. 

PyGame (for 2D games)

PyGame is nearly a one-stop shop for all the resources needed to build a 2D game using Python. It is a low-level graphics library built around the SDL open-source 2D graphics library. 

It isn’t the platform you need for making extremely complex, graphics heavy games, but it is an excellent choice for building out a simple Python game. 

Panda3D (for 3D games)

Panda3D is the graphics engine used to make Disney’s ToonTown, which is great proof that it’s a solid choice for using Python to make a 3-dimensional game. The core of Panda3D is actually written in C++ in order to boost its speed, but the majority of the APIs can be called through a Python interface so you can feasibly create an entire 3D game using Python coding!   

Recommended: Free Coding Programs for Kids

Guide to Creating Your Own Game Using Python

Now that you’ve gained some background knowledge in Python’s capability to create great games, it’s time to think about taking the leap and creating your first game. But how do you start making your dream game from nothing? While this task can seem daunting at first, if you tackle it like a programmer and break it down into multiple steps, you will be surprised at how easy it can be. 

While specifics of each step may vary for each game and programmer, general guidelines to use are as follows:

1. Brainstorm ideas until you have a type of game in mind. 
2. Break your big idea up into multiple pieces and tackle each piece one at a time
3. Write pseudocode for each piece
4. Add assets to your game such as images and music
5. Write the logic for each piece until it’s working as intended
6. Test and refactor as needed
7. Deploy your game

To show you how these steps work, we’ve created a Traffic vs. Zombie game. Play Traffic vs. Zombie.

1. Brainstorm ideas until you have a type of game in mind

You will need to look at this part as a designer, programmer, and player. How do you want your game to look? How do you want your game to behave? And most importantly, what is the purpose of the game.

While it may be fun to come up with a brand new idea, I find it easier to mix and match games you have played before into your own unique game. My game is called Traffic vs Zombie which is a mash-up with Frogger and Plants vs Zombies. With this idea, I can answer the three questions listed above. I want my game to have one zombie and three roads with cars. The cars will drive along the roads blocking the zombie from a finish line. The player controls the zombie and tries to cross the road to get to the finish line. 

2. Break your game up into multiple pieces and tackle each piece one at a time

Many games have a lot of different functionalities that can be tackled separately. It’s a good idea to identify these components so they are more manageable when you start working. For example, in Traffic vs Zombie, I broke the overall design into these separate parts.

1. Design the main backdrop of the game such as the sky, roads, cars, one zombie, and a finish line.

2. Write logic to make the cars move continuously along the roads

3. Allow the zombie to move using WASD keys.

4. Add collision detection when a zombie touches a car and causes a game over.

5. Let the player win the game when the zombie touches the finish line.

6. Spice up the game with extra sprites and designs!

3. Write pseudocode for each piece

Pseudocode is the process of writing code down, but in your native language instead of a programming language. For example, instead of writing the python code for making vehicles move, you may write down what you want to happen. Pseudocode for adding a vehicle and making it move across the screen looks something like this:

Add vehicle image

Place vehicle image on the screen

Animate vehicle image from left to right, then right to left

Writing pseudocode will help organize your thoughts and the logic that the game will need, making the programming part much more manageable. 

Then when you’re ready to write Python code, you can translate your pseudocode into a language that the computer can understand. The above pseudocode translates to the following in Python:

def drive_vehicle():

    image = add_image(choice(vehicle_options), size=vehicle_size)

    position_element(image, vehicle_x_position, vehicle_y_position)

    animate_right(image, 2200, time=randint(10, 12), loop=True)

4. Add assets to your game such as images and music

If you’re a graphic designer and musician as well as a programmer, then go ahead and create everything from scratch. However, if you’re like most programmers, you’ll realize that it helps to re-use stuff created by other people. However, ensure you get permission before doing this in your own games!

Here are examples of assets we are using in our game:

If you’re looking for some royalty-free game assets and sounds, I highly recommend https://www.kenney.nl/assets. Kenney provides a plethora of free assets that you can use freely without payment, permission, or attribution. However, I always recommend at least attributing when possible. 

5. Write the logic for each piece until it’s working as intended

By this point, you’re staring at an awesome background of beautiful assets, but nothing is happening yet. This is when you take out the pseudocode you wrote earlier and start programming. 

You know what needs to be done, so now use the knowledge you’ve gained with Python and write the game logic.

6. Test and refactor as needed

If you’re like 99.9999% of other programmers out there, the first time you run your game it will not be perfect. That’s normal and it’s okay to be in a perpetual state of wanting to make improvements. 

If you’re planning on sharing this game with friends, ask yourself questions such as, is this game too easy or is this game too difficult? How can you balance the strategy of the game to encourage people to play the game without rage quitting (I’m looking at you Dark Souls!) or stopping after 10 seconds because they’ve already beaten your game? A good idea to manage this is to add difficulty levels.

7. Deploy your game

Happy with the final product? Share your game with your family and friends! If the game is created on our CodeWizardsHQ editor, you can just copy and paste the link to anyone and they can play your game for free! If you’d like to check out Traffic vs Zombie you can do so by going to https://mediap-tr-056d626.apps.codewizardshq.com/traffic_vs_zombie_py. 

Download 1-Week Python Lesson Plans

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Learn Programming with Python Classes for Kids

Whatever kind of game you’re wanting to build, it’s a lot easier to build it when you’re working with experienced teachers who have already done it themselves. CodeWizardsHQ offers fun and effective Python classes for kids and teens designed to get your Python skills where they need to be to become a real game developer. 

CodeWizardHQ’s coding for middle school students and for coding for high school students both start out with the basics, but quickly dive into all you need to know in order to be a great Python developer. Since one of the larger benefits of coding a game in Python is being able to see and use code that has already been written, adding in the chance to learn from our teachers’ previous experience in Python is a great way to increase those benefits!

The post Guide to Python Game Development: Best Python Games, Engines, and How to Code Your Own appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Imagine meeting a friend, but when they open their mouth to speak to you, all you hear is gibberish. When you ask them to explain, the explanation sounds like gibberish too. 

When you’re hearing new programming terms for the first time, it can easily feel like that! Command-line? An array? Huh?

Kids who learn coding are learning a new language that is complete with its own syntax and vocabulary. While not exactly gibberish, it probably seems like it from the outside. Many of these coding terms, definitions, and concepts can feel as foreign as being on a new planet. So, it’s important to understand and feel comfortable with coding jargon before diving into the written portion.

Code documentation and terminology gives a foundation for how a language works and how specific parts of your code will function. By learning the most common programming terms and concepts, kids can feel confident as they read and learn more about specific languages.

This list of the 200 common programming and coding terms is simplified for kids to be easy to understand. Kids can use it as a reference if they are learning or as a refresher if they’ve already started coding.

A

Abstraction

Simplified code or technology that’s easy to use without knowing how it works.

Active Record

Information in a database that’s presented to a user. This term is common in MVC (Model, View, Controller) development.

Agile Software Development

A process of building software in stages. Work is divided into short bursts called sprints. Separate teams may work on different parts of a project.

AJAX

A method for getting data from a web server that uses XML, JavaScript, and HTML.

Algorithm

A sequence of problem-solving steps. For example: Add a series of values together, and then divide by the number of values. These steps produce a mean or average.

Angular.js

A JavaScript front end framework for building websites. A collection of templates and pre-written code. 

Apache

Apache, or Apache HTTP Server, is an open-source and free web server software. Apache had a significant role in the initial growth of the internet and is also the “A” in LAMP Stack.

API

An application programming interface (API) allows interactions between multiple software programs so programmers have access to data and info from external software. The Google Maps API lets people use satellite photos and maps in their own programs. 

Apprenticeship

An agreement between an employer and an employee. The apprentice (employee) gets training and pay in exchange for work.

Argument

A number, text string, or other value required for a function to run its code. An argument is the x in f(x) = y.

Arithmetic Operators

These operators are used with numbers to perform basic math, for example “+” for addition. Computers have to add and subtract, multiply and divide to do almost anything. 

Array

A single variable that contains a list of data. For example, myNumbers = [0,1,2,3]. Here, myNumbers is an array of numbers.

ASCII  

American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) is a system for electronic communication. It has 128 numbers that stand for letters and other symbols. ASCII is the same all over the world. 

Assignment Operators

An operator that assigns a value to a variable. For example, “=” in Python assigns a value on the right to the variable on the left. 

Asynchronous Learning

Learning that may take place at a different time for each student. The material is usually recorded or pre-made.

Asynchronous Programming Languages

A programming language that doesn’t have to do things in the order they are written. Instead, it can do many things at once. For example, JavaScript.

Augmented Reality

Software that puts digital objects on images or videos of the real world. AR (Augmented Reality) is popular on smartphones.

Autonomous

Self-guiding and able to work independently without input from a person. Many drones and some cars are autonomous.

Recommended: Coding for Teens

B

Back End

The server side of the internet that the user can’t see. The back end stores, retrieves, and modifies data, it’s essentially the brains of a website. 

Backbone.js

A JavaScript library used mostly for one-page web apps to give structure and handle user input and interactivity.

Binary

A system of two possible states, zero and one. Computers operate in binary, meaning they store data and perform calculations using only zeros and ones.

Binary Alphabet

The numbers 0 and 1.

Binary Numbers

Combinations of zeroes and ones that make up a computer program. 

Bit

A single 0 or 1. It’s the smallest unit of information in computing and digital communications.

Block-based Programming Language

A visual programming language. Block-based programming lets users drag and drop blocks of code to make programs (as opposed to writing text). For example, Scratch is a block programming language.

Blockly

A block programming language created by Code.org. It’s used to teach kids how to code.

Boolean

The “true or false” logic that powers computers. The boolean data type has one of two possible values: it’s either true or false. 

Bootstrap (aka Twitter Bootstrap)

An open-source framework. A group of templates for building the front end of a website. A large set of HTML files, CSS stylesheets, and JavaScript. 

Bug

Broken code that causes a program to malfunction. Bugs often crash a program or make an error message appear.

Build

To build a program is to make it ready for users. Coders may use special tools to create “builds”, or finished applications.  First, coding, testing, and debugging must be completed.

Byte

A byte is eight bits. For example, 0000 0001.

C

C++

A powerful programming language. It’s used to build fast programs. C++ is common in computerized electronic devices. 

Call (a function)

A snippet of code that makes a function begin.

Call (a variable)

To call a variable is to use it somewhere in a program.

Camel Case

A form of capitalization used for naming variables. The first letter is always lowercase, and the first letter of every word after that is uppercase. For example, “thisVariable” is in camelcase.

Char

An abbreviation of the word “character.” It refers to a single letter, number, or symbol.

Class (HTML and CSS)

The class attribute specifies one or more class names for an HTML element. It’s mostly used to point to a class in a CSS page.

Class (Object Oriented Programming)

A template that defines the qualities of everything that belongs to it. Each member of a class is an object. 

Click

To press the button on a computer mouse.

Cloud

A remote data storage location, such as Dropbox. The cloud is a broad term that refers to general internet storage or services.

Code

The written content of a computer program. Code tells the computer what to do, where to store information, and what to show the user. 

Code Review

A process of looking through code for mistakes or bugs. Programmers sometimes do code reviews in teams. This increases their ability to find and fix errors. 

Coding

The process of writing a computer program. Coding is often the majority of what software engineers do. 

Coding Challenge

A problem given to a programmer during a job interview or at school. The programmer must solve it with code, and in the most efficient or effective way possible. 

Coding Languages

A human-readable language used to make computer programs. C, Java, and Python are examples of coding languages.

Command

An order the computer must carry out. Copy, Paste, and Print are examples of commands. 

Command-line

A computer program that works with text-only input from a user. 

Command-line Interface

A text-based way to interact with a computer. There are no buttons, dropdowns, or clickable elements.

Compilation

The procedure that translates code into a format the computer can use. Some programming languages are called compiled languages. They have to be compiled before they can be used. 

Compiler

A program that changes text-based code into the code a computer understands. The result is an application, often a .exe file. 

Computational Thinking

Reformatting a problem so it becomes solvable by a computer. 

Computer Program

A bundle of code that tells a computer what to do. Computer programs do all sorts of things. Some solve math problems. Some play music. Even video games are computer programs.   

Computer Science

The ideas that make it possible to solve problems with computers. A computer scientist knows about bits, bytes, code, and memory. 

Recommended: Computer Science Classes for Kids

Conditional Statements

A statement that helps a computer decide what to do next. A condition statement has an If/Then format. For example, If a = 1, then add a to b.

Constants

A number, text string, or symbol that never changes value while a program is running. Variables can increase or decrease in value. But a constant stays the same.

Crowdsourcing

The act of recruiting big groups of people to work on a project. People may work for free or for pay. But everyone contributes to the final goal.

CSS

The code that controls the appearance of a website. This includes things like font styles, colors, and margins. CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheets. 

Cybersecurity

A field of computing that deals with the safety of anything stored on a computer. The primary goal is to prevent hackers from stealing data or money. 

D

Data

Any information that can be stored or used in a computer program. Names, addresses, and phone numbers are data. 

Data Science

The science of finding patterns in data with computers. Facebook, Google, and even the government rely on data science. It helps them make better decisions and more useful products. 

Data Structures

The formats used to store and organize data in a computer program. Data structures make information as easy to access as possible. 

Data Types

The kind of information that a variable or constant can hold. Examples include strings, integers, and booleans.

Database (dbms)

A digital vault that stores information. Databases look like tables in a spreadsheet. A website stores usernames and passwords in a database. 

Debugging

The process of looking for and repairing coding errors. Debugging is an important part of software development.  

Declaration

A single word or symbol used to describe a function or variable. It defines the type of variable or function so the compiler or interpreter knows what to do with it. 

Decompose

To divide a complex challenge into smaller chunks. The goal is to make it easier to solve.

Define (a function)

To create a function and the code that goes inside it. After defining a function, the programmer can call it when needed.

Deployment

The process of launching an application or releasing it to users. 

Digital Footprint

Any piece of information you leave on a website. A blog post, a comment, or a “like” can be a digital footprint. 

Django

A Python framework for the web. Django makes Python website development easier. It’s a collection of templates and libraries. 

DNS (Domain Name Service)

A computer system that turns a written domain name into numbers. These numbers are called an IP (Internet Protocol) address. Computers need IP addresses to find websites.

Double-click

A quick pair of mouse clicks, usually to open an application.

Drag

To press and hold the button on a computer mouse, then move the mouse before releasing.

Drop

To let up on the mouse button after clicking and dragging. 

DRY

DRY stands for Don’t Repeat Yourself. This principle states, “Every piece of knowledge must have a single, unambiguous, authoritative representation within a system.”

DSL/Cable

A type of broadband (fast) internet service. It uses phone or coaxial cables.

Recommended: Coding Websites for Kids

E

Else Statements

An alternative inside an If statement. It essentially tells the computer, “Do one thing if something is true, or else do another thing if it’s not true.”

Endless Loop

A loop that never ends because the condition it depends on is always true. An endless loop is a bug. Every loop should end, otherwise, the program would be stuck.

Event

An event is something that triggers a response in a program. For example, a mouse click or a button press.

Event Handler

Code that responds to an event such as a mouse click or button press. 

Exception

An error that may be caused by a user or missing piece of data. 

Express.js

The backend framework for Node.js. Express is useful for modules and web apps. Developers can build APIs with Express.

Expression

An arithmetic statement such as 1+2 or x-y.

F

F.A.I.L.

An acronym for First Attempt In Learning. Failure is a regular part of the learning process.

Flask

Flask is a backend web framework written in Python. It’s an API of Python that lets us build up web applications quickly and easily without special tools or libraries.

For Loop

A block of code that repeats several times. The programmer must specify the number of times the code should repeat. 

Framework

A set of “templates” that programmers use to build programs quickly. Frameworks may contain pre-written code, markup, and APIs. Web frameworks exist for the front end and back end. 

Front End

The part of a computer program that a user sees and interacts with. The front end is also called the user interface. 

Full Stack Developer

A developer who works on the back end and front end of a website. 

Function

A chunk of code that takes input, manipulates it, and produces some kind of output. Programmers create a function just once, but they can use it over and over. 

Function Call

A short snippet of code that triggers a function to run. After writing a function, you must call it whenever you want to use it. 

Function Definition

The inner workings of a function. The code inside of a function that makes it work.

Recommended: 26 Reasons Learning to Code Benefits Your Child

G

Git

A version control system that tracks changes to code. Git is open-source, meaning you can access it for free. 

Github

An internet storage hub for code that works with Git. 

H

HAML

HAML (HTML Abstraction Markup Language) is a templating system that cleans and simplifies your HTML. It’s designed to avoid writing inline code in a web document.

Hardcode

Permanent code. Code that a programmer can’t change easily or at all. 

High-level Language

A programming language a person can read and understand. Python is a high level language. Machine code (for example, 00000001) is not.

HTML

HTML (HyperText Markup Language) is a markup language used to build basic websites. HTML determines what shows up on the page. 

HTTP Request

The method a web browser uses to ask for information from a server. HTTP stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol. 

I

IDE (Integrated Development Environment)

A program that developers use to write code. IDEs usually know a language’s keywords and can provide help. They can also run programs. 

If Statement

A conditional statement. It executes a certain block of code if some condition is true. 

Inheritance

The practice of basing a new piece of code on existing code. Programmers use inheritance to create an enhanced version of the original code. 

Input

The information that goes into a computer. User input is one type, which includes text, clicks, and button presses. 

IntelliJ

An integrated development environment (IDE) created for writing and running code. To start writing code in Java, you can use IntelliJ.

Internet

The internet is made of many computers and servers that are connected to each other. The web exists on the internet, but the internet is much larger than the world wide web.

IOS Swift

Swift is an Apple programming language. It combines elements from the C and Objective C languages. 

IP Address

A number associated with a website or a device on the internet. Printers and computers have IP addresses. 

Iteration

One pass of a loop. Each time a block of code is executed counts as one iteration of the for or while loop it belongs to.

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J

Java

A programming language developed by Oracle. Java is popular for web and mobile applications. 

JavaScript

A popular coding language for websites and web apps. JavaScript runs on the client side. That means it runs in the browser instead of the computer where the website “lives”.

JavaScript Framework

A web framework in JavaScript used to build apps and websites.

jQuery

A JavaScript library that makes it easy to change elements on a webpage. 

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation)

A common data storage format used in many web apps. JSON files keep data organized. 

Junior Developer

The first job for many coders. Junior developers work under the guidance of more experienced pros.

K

Keywords

Predefined words in a programming language. These words have a special meaning. In an integrated development environment (IDE), keywords appear in special colors.

L

LAMP Stack

LAMP stack uses Linux operating system, the Apache HTTP Server, MySQL, and the PHP programming language. LAMP stack is a popular open-source web platform used by large web companies like Tesla and Lyft.

Linter

A linter, or lint tool, is a basic static code analyzer that checks your program for potential stylistic and programming errors. You can often find linters in your code editor and they are available for various programming languages today.

Linux

Like Windows, Linux is an operating system. But it’s open-source, so it’s free to use. Linux is popular with developers and runs on most web servers.

Local Environment

A personal computer or a server. This is where coders run programs before launching them. A local environment lets coders see their software in action before showing it to the world.

Loop

A block of code that runs over and over. A loop is an important part of any video game or animation. Loops are present in almost all programs. 

Low-level Language

A programming language that isn’t easy for a human to read. Low-level languages make fast computer programs, but they’re difficult to write. 

M

Machine Language

Long combinations of zeroes and ones that power a computer. All programs have to get turned into machine language in order to run.  

Machine Learning

A form of artificial intelligence where programs have the ability to automatically learn and improve from experience. Image recognition is a common type of machine learning. 

Main Function

The first function called after a C or C++ program starts.

Markup Language

A simple language that determines what appears on a computer screen. HTML and XML are markup languages.

MEAN Stack

A complete framework for web development. MongoDB is the M. Express.js is the E. Angular.js is the A. Node.js is the N.

Micro:bit

A tiny computer used in programming courses for kids. The Micro:bit works with lots of sensors and electronic accessories. 

MongoDB

A database for web applications. Mongo uses a JSON-like structure instead of rows and columns. 

MVC

Used for many kinds of development, MVC is a three-part design pattern. It stands for Model View Controller. Each piece of MVC handles a different part of a program. 

MySQL

The most common language used to put info into and take it out of databases. MySQL is often used with another language, like PHP. 

N

Neural Networks

A computer program modeled after the human brain. Neural networks learn over time, just like people.

Node.js

Node.js is a programming tool that lets you run JavaScript code outside of a web browser. 

Null

Empty or without value. Variables and columns in a database can sometimes be null.

O

Object Oriented Programming (OOP)

Programming with classes and objects. A class is simply a prototype that defines what its objects can do. Every object in the class has the class’s properties. 

Object Related Database Management System (ORDBMS)

Two database models in one. It’s part relational database and part object oriented. It has objects and classes as well as tables with rows and columns. 

Objects

A member of a class. It might help to think about a real-world analogy. For example, every person is an object that belongs to the class called “humans”.

Online

Connected to the internet. Someone can be online with a computer, a mobile phone, or another electronic device.

Open-Source Software Development

Software that is free for anyone to use. The code for open-source software is available to developers who want to work on it. They can make improvements and add features.

Operand

The variable or value that will be used in an operation. For example, x and y are operands in the x+y.

Operator

An arithmetic symbol such as a plus sign or a minus sign. Or a multiplication sign, division sign, greater than or less than sign. 

OS (Operating System)

The software that makes a computer work. It’s responsible for organizing files. An operating system also determines what software can run on the machine. 

Output

The content that comes out of a computer. Output may be text or numbers. It could even be sound or video.

P

Package

An organization tool for classes in Java. A package keeps large collections of files neatly ordered. 

Packets

A block of information that moves from one computer to another. 

Pair Programming

Two coders working together on a project. One person codes while the other watches and checks the code for errors.

Parameter

The input of a function. A parameter gets replaced by an argument when the function is called.

Pattern Matching

The process of looking for identical characters or data in a dataset.

Persistence

When a piece of data, information, or web page remains accessible. Persistent data doesn’t get deleted when you close the program. 

PHP

A scripting language frequently used for websites. PHP uses tags like HTML, but a PHP website can do much more and the content can change with user input. 

Pixel

The basic unit of digital displays. A pixel is a little square that can be one of many colors. Every image on a screen is made up of hundreds or even thousands of pixels.

Pointer

Like variables, pointers store information. But a pointer contains a memory address instead of data. It “points” to the address somewhere in computer memory.

Postgresql

An open-source database. To store or retrieve something, a programmer can write code in SQL.

Program

Written code that runs on a computer. Most programs consist of user interfaces and logic. Adobe Illustrator is a computer program. So is Microsoft Outlook. 

Programming

The process of writing code that will become a computer program.

Programming Language

The keywords and special rules people use to write computer programs. Every language has some of its own rules and keywords, but they also have many things in common.

Project-based Learning

Learning by building real projects. It’s possible to learn just by studying concepts, but project-based learning is designed to be fun and to feel like real development. 

Python

An open-source programming language. Python is popular because it’s somewhat easy to learn. Many big applications were made in Python including YouTube and DropBox.

R

A programming language used in data science. 

React

A JavaScript library built by Facebook. Its main purpose is to help with user interface (UI) development. 

React Native

A type of React that lets developers use the same code for different platforms. 

Relational Database Management System (RDBMS)

A program for making and updating databases that use tables.

Repeat  

To perform an action more than once.

REST / RESTful

A set of rules that makes it possible for computers to communicate with each other. REST (Representational State Transfer) makes the world wide web possible.

Ruby

Ruby is a programming language designed to be readable. It’s object oriented and useful for all kinds of applications. AirBnB and GitHub were built on Ruby. 

Ruby on Rails

Ruby’s full-stack web framework. If you want to build web applications with Ruby, Rails makes it easier. 

Run Program

To start a computer program.

Runtime

Runtime is the stretch of time when a computer program is running. 

S

SASS

SASS (Syntactically Awesome Style Sheets) is a scripting language that is interpreted into Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). It helps you keep your CSS organized and lets you create style sheets faster.

Scratch

The block programming language developed by MIT. Scratch coding is a great first language for young coders. To build a program, all you need to do is click, drag, and drop blocks into place.

Scripting Language

Any language that doesn’t need to be compiled or interpreted. JavaScript is one example.

Scripts

Small programs that do limited steps. Scripts can be part of bigger programs.

Search Engine

Google, Bing, and Yahoo are search engines. They find websites and information based on keywords provided by the user. 

Server

A computer that hosts websites and data. Servers store the information that other people can access on the internet.

Server-side

On the computer that hosts a website instead of on the user’s browser. Sites like WordPress use PHP on the server-side and JavaScript on the client (user) side. 

Source Code

The code written by programmers that becomes software. First, the source code has to get translated into machine code by a compiler.

Source Data

The main location where data is used in a program. Source data can be from a database, spreadsheet, or hard-coded. The program can retrieve the data from this source then use it.

Sprint

A period of several days during which a software team works on specific tasks. For each sprint, every member of the team has a certain amount of work to get done.

Sprites

A character or a moving object in a computer game. Sprites respond to button presses, clicks, or other user input.

SQL (Structured Query Language)

The most popular programming language for adding and retrieving information from a relational database.

Stack

Several programs used to build apps for the web or mobile devices. Example stacks are LAMP, WAMP, and MEAN.

Statement

An instruction to a computer written in code. Statements can include text, numbers, and symbols.

Synchronous Learning

Learning that occurs when a student and teacher are online at the same time. This is the kind of learning that happens in CodeWizardsHQ coding classes.

Syntax

The structure of a language. The rules that state in what order words must appear. Each programming language has its own syntax. 

T

Teaching Language

The language used in a programming course. For young learners, block languages like Scratch are common. In many courses, Python is the chosen teaching language.

Tensor Flow

A library built by Google for creating neural networks. Tensor flow is open-source. 

Terminal

Mac’s text-based user interface. In the terminal, users can open files and folders, move things around, and do many other things.

Token

One word, symbol, or operator in a computer program. A plus sign is a token. In most languages, the word “function” is too. 

Training

In machine learning, programs need training. To train a program, you give it as much data as possible. Usually, the more data the better. 

U

URL (Universal Resource Locator)

The text you type into your browser to get to a website. URL stands for Universal Resource Locator.

Usability Testing

The process of observing users to make sure your software works as they expect. Usable software is easy for people to work with. 

User Experience (UX) Design

The design of interactions between a user and a product. The process of making something fun and easy to use. UX isn’t just for software, but that’s where it started.

User Interface (UI) Design

The process of creating the visual parts of a computer program. This includes the buttons, colors, and icons.

Username

A nickname that you type in when you want to enter a certain website or application. 

V

Variable

A container that holds a value, such as a piece of text or a number. The value can change, which is why it’s stored in a variable.

Variable Types

The kind of information a variable can hold. Strings, ints, and lists are variable types in Python. 

Version Control

Software that lets coders save several versions of their code. This prevents previous work from getting deleted or lost. It also helps programmers keep track of changes.

W

Website

Several web pages that are linked together and stored on the same server. 

While Loop

A bit of code that runs over and over as long as some condition is true. For example, a loop might run while a certain number is less than 6 and stop once it reaches 6.

Whiteboarding

The process of brainstorming collaboratively in person or virtually. Ideas on code, pseudocode, or charts are organized on a physical whiteboard or virtual tool representing a whiteboard.

Wi-Fi

A way to send and retrieve data without wires. Wi-Fi uses radio waves to transfer information.

X

Xcode

An IDE from Apple for developers who want to build software for Apple devices. 

XML

A markup language that looks similar to HTML and controls the way information shows up on a screen. But XML files also work outside of web browsers.

Free Coding Terms Flashcards

Practice these coding terms for kids with a free set of printable flashcards. Just print, cut, and fold to get started. Over 200 programming terms are explained just for kids.

Download free flashcards now.

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Don’t understand a term or have one to add? Join our Facebook group for help from our teachers and coding community. 

There are many free coding programs for kids to start practicing this new coding vocabulary.

When you’re ready to take your learning to the next level, check out our live coding classes for kids!

• Elementary School Coding Classes
• Middle School Coding Classes
• High School Coding Classes

The post Kids guide to 200+ common programming terms and definitions appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Kids with an eye to their future know that learning to code is important, but figuring out which language to learn can be an intimidating task. With a balance of being both easy to learn and widely used in the real world, we suggest learning Python for kids.

[Download] Free Python Lesson Plans Get free 1-week Python lesson plans and slides for kids ages 11-13 to start learning about Python coding. Download Now

Some languages are easier to learn, while others have a wider application. But Python sits right in the sweet spot. That’s why it’s the programming language kids start with in our middle school and high school coding programs.

Python coding is a skill that will benefit kids now and well into the future. This guide gives kids an introduction to Python language and kickstarts your child’s learning with Python video lessons.

What is Python?

Python is a computer programming language created by Guido van Rossum in 1991. 

Python emphasizes readability and simplicity, allowing developers to express concepts in fewer lines of code compared to languages like C++ or Java. 

It’s easy to read and has some similarities to the English language with influence from mathematics.

Python is used in:

• Web Development
• Game Development
• Software Development
• Data Science and Machine Learning
• Automation and Scripting
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) 
• Natural Language Processing (NLP)
• Scientific Computing
• Financial Technology

Python is a preferred choice for kids and teens who want to learn coding. We dedicate most of our core coding tracks to learning Python because of the many benefits it offers.

Why Should Kids Learn Python?

Python is Beginner Friendly.

Python is an ideal starting point for beginners and kids. 

It can be overwhelming for kids the first time they’re reading and writing code. We recommend Python for our students because it reads a lot like English. Even for kids without programming experience, it’s easy to understand.

Python uses new lines to complete a command instead of semicolons or parentheses in other languages. It also relies on indentation, using whitespace, to define scope whereas other programming languages often use curly-brackets for this purpose.

With other languages, the strange combinations of words and punctuation can seem impossible to decipher. 

Learning the basics of Python isn’t nearly as difficult. As a result, kids feel less intimidated and can focus on concepts instead of syntax. 

Kids Won’t Outgrow Python.

A few programming languages designed for beginners are purely graphical. These are called “block” languages. 

Scratch is an example of a block programming language. Although Scratch is good for elementary school children, it’s easy to outgrow because it’s not used in major applications. 

That’s not the case with Python. Python can be used to build anything from simple websites with just a few users to professional and enterprise applications with millions of users. It uses real coding syntax and foundational coding skills that kids can also apply when learning other languages. 

Python language has an extensive library, ecosystem, and community. It’s a popular and relevant language that will grow with your child as their skills improve.

Python Is Applicable In the Real World.

Python is used across various fields and industries, many that we interact with everyday.  

For example, Python powers the world’s second-largest search engine: YouTube. It’s also used in many of the world’s most popular websites like Google, Yahoo, and Instagram. 

Python is often used in:

• web development
• data science
• software development
• artificial intelligence
• machine learning
• game development
• scientific research

Python has its influence in technology, finance, education and many other industries too. Software engineers build neural networks and other forms of artificial intelligence with this versatile language. Scientists use Python to work with large data sets.

Because of its wide range of applications, kids who learn Python will easily be able to use this skill in the real world. 

Tips for Kids to Successfully Learn Python

Gamification Encourages Kids to Learn 

Motivation is a key component of successful learning. Students can get bored and abandon a subject before they become proficient without the proper incentives. This is why gamification, or the use of game design elements, is now so popular in online and live classrooms.

Score-keeping, competition, and rewards are great ideas for holding kids’ attention and teaching them everything from algebra to programming in Python. Studies have shown that gamification can increase classroom engagement and cognitive development.

We use gamification in our coding classes by using points, badges, and competitions to motivate student learning. As a result, overall student grades and passing rates have improved.   

Use Project-Based Learning for Engagement

Many of the biggest names in technology started coding to build simple programs for themselves, friends, or family.

Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Steve Jobs are just a few examples. They got excited about coding by building small but fun personal projects. Dreaming up a game or website, and then figuring out how to build it might be the most effective way to master a programming language like Python.

It’s often necessary to learn the basics before beginning, but it’s possible to be proficient enough to build impressive programs in just a few weeks.

The key is to ease kids into learning Python by working with small chunks of information at a time. If the information is organized into a highly visual format, that’s even better.

The best coding books for kids are divided into short segments with plenty of pictures and small bits of text. Some coding classes offer short lessons that kids can complete in just a few minutes. These are perfect ways to introduce the Python programming language to kids.

Practice is a Must.

Skills stick when we learn them over time, when there is spaced repetition, and when we practice them over and over.

Python programming is just like any other skill, it requires frequent practice and takes time to learn.

Kids who regularly use their Python skills to build projects and solve problems will retain their knowledge. Unless you’re just looking for a one-off class, you want your child to have deep, meaningful learning.

Those who don’t practice regularly are likely to forget most of what they’ve learned in a very short period of time. Our Python classes for kids are year-round so kids can practice every week and build a robust portfolio of projects and skills over time.

Practice is crucial, so make sure your child has regular opportunities to use Python. 

Introduce Kids to Coding in Python

Now let’s dive into learning Python with these 10 introductory concepts. Learning these will give you an overview of the Python language and syntax. 

Once you’re familiar with the concepts and have practiced with the activities, you can complete your first Python project.

1. Introduction to Python and Coding

Computers are machines that process data. While they are powerful, they don’t do anything until they’re told to. Computers run many programs, like your word processor or browser. A program is a set of instructions we give the computer to tell them what to do.

A program is similar to a recipe, it provides step-by-step instructions to perform a task. Programmers are the ones who write these instructions in code. The computer then reads the code and performs each instruction to complete a task. 

Basically, programmers write the code and computers read and execute the code. It’s that simple!

In the middle school and high school coding programs, new students start with Python. We chose Python because it’s both easy to learn and very powerful. 

Activity – Which of these uses code?

View solution.

2. Data Types

Data is information stored in a computer or in code. It’s a collection of numbers, letters, and symbols.

A data type is a classification of data that tells the computer how to use it. The data type determines what values data can have and the operations that can be performed on this data. 

For example, if a number has an integer data type, it can have operations performed on it such as addition and division. Most programming languages support basic data types such as numbers, characters, and booleans.

In Python there are standard data types kids should be familiar with:

• Integer: 14, -3, 0
• Float: 20.5, 338.78, -0.33
• String: “CodeWizardsHQ”
• Boolean: True or False
• List: [“apple”, “banana”, “cherry”]
• Tuple: (“Roblox”, “Fortnite”, “Minecraft”)
• Dictionary: {“name”:“John”, “age”:36}

Integer: An integer is a whole number that can be positive, negative, or zero. The year, 2024, or days in a week, 7, would both represent integers.

• Example: 14, -3, 0

Float: Floats are decimal values or fractional numbers. A temperature like 98.6 degrees would be a float.

• Example: 20.5, 338.78, -0.33

String: A series of letters, numbers, or symbols enclosed in either single quotes (”) or double quotes (“”). As long as it’s in quotes, it’s a string.

• Example: “CodeWizardsHQ”

Boolean: Booleans represents one of two values, either True or False. They’re use to determine if an expression is true or false. Like a light switch, if it’s on it’s true and it’s it’s off it’s false. Booleans are written with a capital letter and do not have quotes around them. 

• Example: True, False

List: A list is an ordered, changeable (or mutable) collection of data written with brackets [ ]. Think of a grocery list with a group of related items, like fruits.

• Example: [“apple”, “banana”, “cherry”]

Tuple: Tuples are similar to lists except that they’re an ordered, immutable collection of data meaning they can’t be changed once they’re created. They are written with parenthesis ( ).

• Example: (“roblox”, “fortnite”, “minecraft”)

Dictionary: These are mutable (or changeable) data structures that store elements in key-value pairs. The key “name”, might be paired with a value like “John”. The dictionary is written with curly braces { }.

• Example: {“name” : “John”, “age” : 36}

The full list of built-in Python data types includes:

• Text Type: str
• Numeric Types: int, float, complex
• Sequence Types: list, tuple, range
• Mapping Type: dict
• Set Types: set, frozenset
• Boolean Type: bool
• Binary Types: bytes, bytearray, memoryview

To see the data type of an object, use the type() method in Python.

Activity – Which data types are these?

View solution.

3. Variables

Variables are containers that hold a value or piece of data, like an integer or string. 

You might remember these from math class where x isn’t a letter but actually represents a number. 

In code, we could use a variable “age” to represent a number like 11. When you get older, the variable “age” stays the same, but the number it represents increases to 12. Using a name instead of a value makes Python code read like English.

Variables are powerful because they can be reused and changed easily. 

Rules for Naming Python Variables

• Cannot start with a number
• Cannot contain spaces
• Cannot contain special characters except _ (underscores)
• Two variables cannot have the same name 

In Python, you can assign a value to a variable using the equal sign:

Activity – Create the following variables in Python

View solution.

4. Functions

A function is a block of code that performs an action when it is called. They are usually a verb or a short phrase that have () at the end.

You can add arguments inside the parenthesis to pass data, or parameters, into a function. A function can return data as a result.

For example, you might have a function called addNumbers() and its job is to add two numbers. Whenever you need to add two numbers, you can call this function. 

Code is often divided into many functions that perform different operations. Using functions allows programmers to be more efficient and avoid repeating the same logic or code.

To create a function you will first define it using def, followed by the name of the function and some parentheses.

Then, add the code inside it, indented by 4 spaces. You can run this function by writing just the function name followed by parentheses.

Rules for Naming Python Functions:

• Start with a letter or an underscore: _.
• They can have numbers.
• They can be any length
• They can’t be the same as a Python keyword. 

Activity – Define and call a Python function.

View solution.

5. Lists

In real life, we often make lists to group things together. For example, a to-do list or a grocery list. 

In Python, lists are very similar. A list is an ordered collection of data. 

Each element or value inside of a list is called an item. Lists are mutable meaning that the values in the list can change. 

You define a list using [] and separate each item with a comma.

To obtain a value from your list, you must select the index for that list item, which always starts at 0.

In this list of foods, the first item “tacos” has an index 0. The next item, “pizza”, has an index of 1. The final item, “nachos”, has an index of 2.

To get “pizza”, we need to access the item in the list foods with an index of 1.

Activity – Create a Python list and access list data.

View solution 1 and solution 2.

6. Loops

A loop is a block of code that runs over and over while a certain condition is met. 

Loops help programmers save time, so they don’t have to write the same code over and over. It also helps prevent mistakes and pesky bugs in our code. 

Here’s an example, both of these give us the same output:

The loop prints all items in the list with only 2 lines of code, compared to 6 without it. Now, imagine if the list had 100 items, how many lines of code would you have to write without a loop? At least 100!

In Python, there are two types of loops: for loops and while loops.

A for loop repeats a series of commands over a sequence of data, like a list, a tuple, a dictionary, a set, or a string. 

A while loop repeats a series of commands as long as certain conditions are true. 

Activity – Print every number from 0 to 6 using a loop.

View solution 1 and solution 2.

7. Modules

Python modules are code libraries that contain sets of code you can include in your application. 

Modules allow coders to reuse their code, avoid duplicate code, organize code, and improve the readability of their code. 

You can use Python’s in-built modules or write your own custom modules. 

In-built Modules

Python comes with a number of in-built modules that can help you perform a variety of tasks.

To access a module in your code, import it at the top of your file.

For example, you can import the math module to use the sqrt() function that exists there. This function calculates the square root of any number. 

Instead of creating your own function for certain calculations, the math module provides a list of in-built functions to use.

See the full list of Python modules.

Custom Modules

You can also define your own functions, classes, and variables that can be used in one or many Python programs.

Custom modules help cut down large parts of a program into smaller, more manageable, and organized files. They are the .py files written in Python.

Write A Custom Module

Save this code in a file called newmodule.py

You’ve created your own module. 

Use Your Custom Module

Now you can use that module by importing it in your Python program using the file name.

8. Conditional Statements

Conditional statements tell your program what to do depending on whether a condition is met or not. They’re also known as “if-else” statements. 

For example, let’s say a neighbor greets you with hi. If they say hi, you would respond hello. However, if they say any other greeting, you will instead respond bye. 

In code, we’d write an if-else statement like this:

If the greeting changes, your response will also change. 

Conditional statements provide a way to make decisions in your program and execute different code based on those decisions.

Conditional statements always start with an “if” statement. An “if” statement is written by using the if keyword. It asks a true/false question and runs a code block based on the result.

To add an additional condition, use elif. 

For any statements that do not meet the if and elif conditions, use else.

This code shows an example of an elif statement:

9. Operators

Operators are symbols used to perform operations on variables and values. 

For example, arithmetic operators are used with numbers to add, subtract, multiply, and more. Here we are using the + (addition operator) and * (multiplication operator) to calculate an equation.

Python operators are categorized in the following groups:

• Arithmetic operators: used to perform common mathematical operations on numbers.
  • Examples: +, -, *, /, %, **, //
• Assignment operators: used to assign values to variables.
  • Examples: ==, +=, -=, *=, /=, %=, //=, **=, &=, |=, ^=, >>=, <<=
• Comparison operators: used to compare two values.
  • Examples: ==, !=, >, <, >=, <=
• Logical operators: used to combine conditional statements.
  • Examples: and, or, not
• Identity operators: used to compare if two objects are actually the same object with the same memory location.
  • Examples: is, isnot
• Membership operators: used to test if a sequence is presented in an object
  • Examples: in, not in
• Bitwise operators: Bitwise operators are used to compare (binary) numbers
  • Examples: in, not in

Operators are used to manipulate data, perform mathematical calculations, compare values, and control the flow of your program. 

10. User input 

Many computer programs rely on communicating with an external user. Think of a search bar or form that prompts you, the user, to type or select some input.

To get information from the user in Python, we use the input() function. 

The input() function displays a text prompt and input field to the user. Like this:

The user can respond and you also save the input to a variable so it can be accessed later on.

In this case, the user responded “Johnny” which was saved in the variable name. 

Beginner Python Projects for Kids

Understanding Python concepts and practicing individual skills is a great place to start. The next step is to put it all together in a project where your child combines these skills into an actual program.

Project-based learning is one of the reasons the students in our coding classes are so successful. We highly encourage kids to think of a project they are excited about and slowly learn the skills to complete it.

Here are a few easy Python project ideas for kids and teens. Try putting your own spin on it to test your knowledge and creativity.

Dad Jokes App

Everyone loves a good dad joke, right? In this app, you’ll see how Python is can be used to pull data from an external API (Application Programming Interface) and use that data to make something goofy like a random dad joke generator. View project.

Strong Password Generator

When browsing the internet, you’re often asked to create a user account with a strong password to protect your account from hackers. In this app, you’ll learn how to create strong, secure passwords using Python! View project.

Quiz App 

This project allows users to take a quiz to test their knowledge of different programming languages. The number of correct/incorrect answers are tracked and the user receives different messages depending on how well they did on the quiz. View project.

Pig Dice Game

“Pig” is an easy and fun dice game that anyone in the family can play. You only need one die in hand and know basic arithmetic to play the game. View project.

See more Python project ideas for kids.

Download 1-Week Python Lesson Plans

Kids ages 11-13 can start learning Python in a structured way. Download a FREE 1-week lesson plan with activities and slides. Enter your name and email to receive the free lesson plans in your inbox today.

Learn Python Programming with CodeWizardsHQ

Python coding is a unique skill that will benefit your child regardless of the path they choose. With dedication and practice, your child can learn Python programming!

If you want your child to get all the benefits of coding, enroll in CodeWizardsHQ’s live, online Python classes for kids. 

The expert instructors give students the guidance and motivation to successfully learn to code. There are summer and year-round programs to fit every schedule and beyond-the-classroom support is included. It’s the most fun and effective way for kids to learn Python programming! View programs and enroll today.

The post Python for Kids: Introduction to Python Programming 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.