Do your kids want to learn how to code? Our algorithm game and free printable pack is a great way to introduce some basic coding skills. Coding activities are super cool for kids. Plus, kiddos can start learning about it at a younger age too with these fun games!
What Is Coding?
Coding is a huge part of STEM, but what does it mean for our younger kids? STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and math. A good STEM project will combine aspects for at least two of the STEM pillars, such as engineering and math or science and technology. Computer coding creates all the software, apps, and websites we use without even thinking twice!
A code is a set of instructions, and computer coders {real people} write these instructions to program all sorts of things. Coding is its language, and for programmers, it’s like learning a new language when they write code.
There are different types of coding languages, but they all do a similar task which is to take our instructions and turn them into code the computer can read.
Have you heard of the binary alphabet? It’s a series of 1’s and 0’s that form letters, which then form a code the computer can read. We have a couple of hands-on activities that teach about binary code. Learn more about what is binary code.
What Is An Algorithm?
Simply put, an algorithm is a series of actions. It’s a sequence of actions strung together to solve a problem. Our printable algorithm game is perfect for learning how these actions string together through hands-on play!
There are many fun and interactive ways young kids can get interested in computer coding without even using the computer. You can have lots of fun playing with this algorithm game because you can change the variables each time for a completely new game.
Tips For How To Play The Algorithm Game
Encourage your kids to use the directional cards to create an algorithm to reach the desired object. For example; The scientist must get to his magnifying glass!
There are a few ways you can go about this…
Easier version: Place out one card at a time as you move the object one square at a time.
Harder version: Think out the sequence of actions ahead of time and place out a string of directional cards to show your program. Run your program according to your directions and check your results. Did you make it? Do you need to fix a card?
Homemade Version: We got out a piece of poster board and our superheroes for this one! See how we set up a superhero coding game here.
Single Player or Multiplayer
Kids can make playing boards for each other. Or you can have two sets of starting objects and end objects and have each kid work to get to their object independently. Attach more grids for an even greater challenge.
Algorithm Game Examples
Below you will see two easier versions of our screen-free computer coding game! Plus you can see how you can use so many different things you have around the house from My Little Pony to Pokemon!
This is a great way to encourage even the youngest computer programmer in the basics of programming and learn a little bit about algorithms too!
Grab your free printable algorithm pack here!
We have made three free printable difficulty levels for our algorithm coding game. The three sheets present more of a challenge for stringing actions together. You can download your algorithm game pack below.
Algorithm Game
If you want a fantastic board game, check out Robot Turtle (Amazon Affiliate Link). This game was one of our early favorites in Kindergarten!
Think Fun Robot Turtles STE...Shop on Amazon
Materials Needed:
- Game Printable
- Small Objects
You can print and use all the pieces supplied or you can use just the game boards and add your own figures and pieces! You can also have the kiddos draw their own directional cards as shown below.
Instructions:
STEP 1. Print out one of the grids and set up your board. Choose a grid.
STEP 2. Then choose a location to start the object that will be moving through the grid. Here it is the scientist.
STEP 3. Now select a location for a second object that the first object needs to reach. This second object and how to get to it becomes the problem to solve.
STEP 4. Next, you need to write out directional cards. To make these cards cut index cards in half and make three piles. You will need a straight arrow, a turn right arrow, and a turn left arrow.
Alternatively, you can have your kids use a pencil to write out the arrow symbols for the different directions on a sheet of paper or directly onto the grid as they move the object.
GAME TIP: Laminate your grids and use an erasable marker to use them again and again!
More Fun Screen Free Coding Activities
Explore various LEGO coding activities using basic bricks.
Code your name in binary with the free printable worksheets.
Use binary code to make a Christmas coding ornament for the tree.
Enjoy a superhero coding game.
One of the oldest codes, that is still in use. Send a message with morse code.
Printable Coding Project Pack (Screen-Free)
Explore coding through easy-to-print, set-up, and do activities that don’t need a screen! This is an excellent and inexpensive way to let kids explore algorithms and binary code!
- 15+ screen-free coding activities with instructions and explanations with helpful hints and tips.
- Explore Algorithms with printable DIY games!
- Explore the Binary Alphabet with fun coding challenges.
- Go on a coding adventure with a fun story to read and a challenge to complete.
- Have fun breaking codes with our code-breaker activities!
- Solve fun riddles and addition problems using code.
- Play Robot Bingo.
Also, try Morse code, make a secret code ring, and explore binary code with Margaret Hamilton.
I cannot get the download for your Binary Coding Pack to work. Would you please help? Thanks in advance!
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