Best Coding Apps for Kids on iPhone and iPad in 2022

Nowadays, most businesses use computers and technology in some forms to operate and reach out to customers. It also looks like computers will be a huge part of modern living from here on. This is why coding has become a much-needed skill not only in the information technology sector but also in other industries and fields. 

Coding (also called computer programming) is a method of communicating with computers to instruct them to perform specific actions or tasks.

One good thing about coding as a skill is that you can start learning quite early. This feature opens up opportunities for parents to prepare their children well for the work and lifestyle demands of the future.

Kids Coding
Photo by Julia M Cameron from Pexels

Introducing coding and computer programming basics to kids is a smart idea not only because they will learn sought-after computer-related skills, but also due to other benefits. These benefits include using logical thinking, developing problem-solving skills, and harnessing creativity.

How do you teach programming skills to children?

One of the best ways to introduce programming basics is to let your children play coding apps and games using an iPhone or iPad. The best apps are designed to teach foundational skills and concepts in coding. The good thing about these apps is that they simplify the coding process enough for kids to understand it. In addition, they also make learning fun and exciting. Children think that they are only playing games and not studying, but actually, they are learning coding basics. 

If you want to know what coding apps are suitable for your kids, you can start here. 

Here is a list of the best coding apps for kids on iPhone and iPad in 2022:

ScratchJr

ScratchJr is one of the most popular coding apps for kids that targets kids 5 to 7 year-old. Designed by experts from MIT Media Lab, Scratch Jr is very kid-friendly and perfect for young learners who cannot do math or reading yet. The app primarily uses graphical programming blocks and animation to teach kids the foundations of computer programming. 

With ScratchJr, kids can carry out coding projects that encourage them to be creative and think logically. The projects usually require users to put visual blocks together to make characters perform actions like dancing, jumping, and singing. Users can even personalize their characters by adding sounds, voices, and pictures to them. As kids finish one project after another, they can improve their skills and advance to more difficult levels. 

ScratchJr is free to download to Android, iOS, and Chromebook devices. It is set up as the perfect springboard to Scratch – the famous coding app used by millions. 

Kidlo Coding

Kidlo Coding is one of the best coding apps for preschoolers aged 4 years old. However, older children (up to 9 years old) can still enjoy this app. Coding for Kids offers over 200 fun interactive games that introduce learners to coding basics. Some examples of games in this app include firefighting, balloon popping, and playing dentist. 

These games teach programming concepts like logical sequencing skills, pattern recognition, looping, coordination, functions, arrays, and debugging. You can download the Kidlo Coding app at no cost but you have to pay a monthly or yearly subscription to get full access to all content. 

codeSpark Academy

Researchers from Carnegie Mellon, Princeton, and MIT developed codeSpark Academy. Children as young as 4 – 9 years old, can try out this award-winning app that uses a selection of games and interactive puzzles. A unique feature of codeSpark is that it does not use words in its user interface even though it tackles various computer science concepts like conditionals and sequencing. Instead of words, the app teaches using visuals and audio. This is why, kids who still don’t know how to read can still use codeSpark with ease. 

codeSpark encourages personalized learning by basing its daily activities on the individual child’s progress. This app keeps children engaged in learning through interactive games, puzzles, and step-by-step projects. The app also features an entertaining character called The Foos, which serves as the digital teacher. 

codeSpark has both a free and paid version and does not impose advertising, collection of private data, and other microtransactions. 

Tynker

Tynker is a web-based education programming platform that teaches coding skills, game design, web design, robotics, and animation. It is suitable for 5-year-olds and above and has a wide range of activities suitable for different age groups. Tynker accommodates young pre-readers by offering building-block programs with voice instruction.  

The platform also caters to advanced learners (as old as 18 years) by offering coding exercises in language programs like JavaScript and Python. Older kids can work on projects that have real-world applications. Some projects include building games, apps, and websites; coding robots and drones; and modifying Minecraft. Tynker uses step-by-step instructions to ensure the child can keep up with the learning pace.  

The Tynker mobile app is available on Google Play and  Apple Apps Store and works well even without internet access. You can download and use Tynker for free, but you also have the option to subscribe to a paid plan. 

Sololearn

This app has an extensive collection of free programming courses that discusses Machine Learning, JavaScript, C++, and many more. It is more suitable for older kids – 12 years or older. Sololearn uses a practical-based learning strategy and gives students plenty of opportunities to apply their knowledge. The app also offers DIY assignments, challenges, and thousands of quizzes and questions. 

Sololearn takes away the pressure of competing with other learners. It prescribes a personalized curriculum based on the child’s preferences and progress. In addition, the app has a robust community of users who are willing to share their knowledge and help each other in their coding journey. Another great feature of Sololearn is that it’s free (with advertisements),but you can also opt for its paid pro version that has added features and is free of ads.

The Bottom Line

Computer programming will continue to grow in the future and offers an excellent career choice for both men and women. If you have a child that might be interested in learning about it, there are numerous programs to get them on the learning track at an early age.

Curious to learn which mobile app development is better? Read our comprehensive post on Android VS. iOS.

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Bash Sarmiento

Bash-Sarmiento

Bash Sarmiento is a writer and an educator from Manila. He writes laconic pieces in the education, lifestyle and health realms. His academic background and extensive experience in teaching, textbook evaluation, business management and traveling are translated in his works.

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