Coding Club Resources

These are some resources to get you started if you are thinking about exposing your child to programming. We have found them helpful (and will likely be seen in the Stratton Coding Club).

code.org
Code.org is a site that helps expose children to the fundamental concepts used while programming. Many of the exercises are puzzle-based, but there are also more open-ended environments to explore.
Scratch
Scratch is a project of the MIT Media Lab that helps young people learn to code. Best suited for slightly older students, Scratch offers a very similar program-building environment to Code.org and should be a good next-step.
Scratch Jr
Scratch Jr is a version of Scratch tailored for younger children (5-7). Available as an app for iOS and Android tablets.
Other options
The Code.org folks have compiled a number of other learning resources for students interested in programming, both as part of the "Hour of Code" and then as opportunities in further exploration.
Skills like problem solving, logical reasoning, and debugging are not exclusive to computers! Puzzle games like the ones from SmartGames are sometimes a softer introduction to the same concepts. They're great when you're trying to limit screen time!