Enjoy fun coding activities for kids without needing a computer screen! Technology is a huge part of our lives today. My son loves his iPad and although we monitor his use of it, it’s a part of our home. We have also come up with some fun ways to do coding without a computer for easy STEM activities. Free printable coding worksheets included!
Introduce Coding Activities For STEM
Yes, you can teach young kids about computer coding, especially if they are highly interested in computers and how they work.
My son was astounded to hear that a person actually wrote/designed the Minecraft game. We even had to use the iPad to lookup more about this guy. With the realization that my son could very well make his own game someday, he was pretty interested to learn more about computer coding.
There are a few ways you can introduce computer coding for the younger crowd, depending on the skill level. You can test out the world of computer coding on and off the computer.
These fun ideas for coding activities and games are a great introduction to coding, with and without the computer. Young kids CAN learn to code! Parents can learn about code too! Try coding today! You will love it!
Learn more about STEM for kids below, plus a helpful list of resources to get your started!
What Is STEM For Kids?
So you might ask, what does STEM actually stand for? STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. The most important thing you can take away from this, is that STEM is for everyone!
Yes, kids of all ages can work on STEM projects and enjoy STEM lessons. STEM activities are great for group work, too!
STEM is everywhere! Just look around. The simple fact that STEM surrounds us is why it’s so important for kids to be a part of, to use and to understand STEM.
From the buildings you see in town, the bridges that connect places, the computers we use, the software programs that go with them, and to the air we breathe, STEM is what makes it all possible.
Interested in STEM plus ART? Check out all our STEAM Activities!
Technology is an important part of STEM. What does that look in kindergarten and elementary? Well, it’s playing games, using coding language to make ornaments and other items, and in the process, learning about the basics of coding. Essentially, it’s a whole lot of doing!
Helpful STEM Resources To Get You Started
Here are a few resources that will help you introduce STEM more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident yourself when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.
- Engineering Design Process Explained
- Questions for Reflection (get them talking about it!)
- BEST STEM Books for Kids
- 14 Engineering Books for Kids
- Jr. Engineer Challenge Calendar (Free)
- Must Have STEM Supplies List
What Is Coding?
Computer coding is a huge part of STEM, but what does it mean for our younger kids? Computer coding is what 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 own language and for programmers, it’s like learning a new language when they write code.
There are different types of computer languages but they all do a similar task which is to take our instructions and turn them into a 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 below. Check out these fun coding activities with free coding worksheets now.
Grab your free coding worksheet pack!
Fun Coding Activities For Kids
1. LEGO Coding
Coding with LEGO® is a great introduction to the world of coding using a favorite building toy. Check out all the different ideas for using LEGO bricks to introduce coding.
2. Code Your Name In Binary
Use the binary code and our free binary code worksheets to code your name in binary.
3. Superhero Coding Game
A computer coding game is a really fun way to introduce the basic concept of computer coding to young kids. Even better if you make it a superhero computer coding game! This homemade coding game was pretty easy to set up and can be played with over and over again with any type of pieces.
4. Christmas Coding Game
Printable Christmas theme algorithm game for kids with 3 levels of difficulty. Easy to print and play!
5. Christmas Coding Ornament
Use pony beads and pipe cleaners to make these colorful scientific ornaments for the Christmas tree. What Christmas message will you add it to in code?
6. Valentine’s Day Coding
Screen-free coding with a craft! Use the binary alphabet to code “I love you” in this cute Valentine’s Day craft.
7. What Is Binary Code
Learn more about the binary code for kids. Find out who invented the binary code and how it works. Includes a free printable binary code activity.
8. Morse Code
One of the oldest codes that is still in use to day. Get our printable Morse Code key and send a message to a friend.
9. Algorithm Game
Learn what an algorithm is with this fun printable coding game. Several ways you can play depending on the age of your kids. Choose a quest, and create an algorithm to get there.
Printable Coding Activities Pack
Want to explore more screen-free coding with kids? Check out our SHOP!
