Code groups
Block Programming with Scratch
Scratch is a fun, easy-to-use language that you can use to make games and animations. It’s a great way for new coders to learn many techniques of programming as they modify a huge variety of online games or create their own. Scratch is a visual language; instead of typing in syntax, you drag and link together icons that let you build images, move them around in various ways and respond to user input.
Best for:
- Ages 8–12
- Perfect for beginners
- Use: learn the basics of block programming without needing keyboarding skills.
Learn Python
Virtual: Yes
Learn Python, a general purpose programming language. Best for coders age 10+ with some experience in using the keyboard. Python is our most popular class for students that good keyboarding skills. If students have difficulty with doing things such as copy/cut and paste code, then consider Scratch block programming first before you learn Python.
Best for:
- Ages 10–17
- Some experience
- Use: learn Python
MicroPython
Want to control things in the real world through computer programming? In this group, you’ll go step-by-step, wiring LEDs, sensors, motors, servos, and displays using MicroPython. We have hundreds of project ideas like LED costumes and robots that you can program yourself. We also have suggestions so you can purchase low-cost parts like the $4 Raspberry Pi Pico to power your MicroPython projects. No experience needed!
Best for:
- Ages 8–17
- No previous experience needed but the Beginning Python class us useful.
- Use: electronics, physical computing
Build 3D & 2D games with Unity
Virtual: Not Yet
Enjoy making games and sophisticated graphics with professional level software. Best for ages 10+ or experienced younger coders.
Best for:
- Ages 10–17
- Some experience
- Use: learn to build games
Learn to run Linux, a powerful OS
Virtual: Not Yet
Give your kids a deeper understanding of computers while providing a more programming-friendly environment. Most Linux distributions support dozens of programming languages. Linux is a free, open source operating system that comes in many different flavors and used around the world.
Have an older laptop that can't run the latest software? Linux runs great on older machines, either for desktop use or as a home server—turn that old laptop into a Minecraft server!
Best for:
- Ages 10–17
- Some experience
- Use: learn to run & customize Linux
Program your own robot with mBot
Virtual: Not Yet
CoderDojo TC has several mBots. Control a robot using Scratch or Arduino. You can make the robot dance, avoid obstacles, run away from light, light up, and play sounds.
Best for:
- Ages 8–17
- No experience required
- Use: get started with robotics
Create your own games with Ruby
Virtual: Not Yet
Ruby is a dynamic, versatile programming language used to build many kinds of apps. Our new Ruby group coaches kids who are ready for a simple, real world language to make cool games and other apps.
Best for:
- Ages 10–17
- Some experience
- Use: learn Ruby
Websites, HTML5 and CSS
Virtual: Yes
Web – Explore everything from the fundamentals of the web to advanced javascript-based games. As the primary way to communicate and share ideas in the digital age, the web group will help you build a solid understanding of how the visible web is made. Exploring how a page is laid out in HTML, CSS and Javascript, this group will allow you to build an entire micro-website right on your computer, so you can publish it later and share with friends. For those looking to tinker with existing code and get expert support, you can also peel off and work in the CodePen editor to see instant results. As we wrap up the day, we take a look “behind the curtains” at your favorite sites to demonstrate exactly how these same principles and techniques are used in your everyday life. This is also an excellent place for teens interested in mobile and desktop app development, as the web is easily ported to most native platforms. Best for ages 11+ or experienced younger coders.
Best for:
- Ages 11–17
- No experience required
- Use: build web pages, apps, games
Learn the basics of Java
Virtual: Not Yet
Want to learn a programming language that will let you publish your apps to a desktop, an iPhone, iPad, or an Android device? Learn the Java programming language with Greenfoot. Best for kids with some programming skills ages 11+ or experienced younger coders.
Best for:
- Ages 11–17
- Some experience
- Use: build apps and games for multiple platforms
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