Scratch is an excellent introduction to coding for kids, offering a visual programming environment that allows young learners to create interactive stories, games, and animations. Developed by MIT, Scratch empowers children to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively. It’s designed specifically for kids aged 8 and up, but even younger learners can benefit from its simplicity and flexibility. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best Scratch classes for kids online, featuring both free and paid options to suit various learning preferences.

1. Scratch Official Website

  • Age: +8
  • Price: Free

Scratch is the original platform where kids can learn Scratch programming for free. With an easy-to-use interface, children can start creating projects immediately by dragging and dropping code blocks. Scratch also offers tutorials, a large community for sharing projects, and a vast library of resources to support young coders.

2. Code.org

  • Age: +5
  • Price: Free

Code.org integrates Scratch programming into its curriculum for younger learners. Their “Hour of Code” activities include Scratch-based challenges that introduce kids to the world of coding through game design and storytelling. It’s an ideal place for children as young as five to start learning Scratch.

3. Tynker

  • Age: +7
  • Price: Paid with Free Trial

Tynker offers a game-based learning platform where kids can learn coding using Scratch. It has a wide range of projects and lessons specifically designed for kids, helping them develop creativity while understanding programming fundamentals. Tynker offers a free trial, after which it switches to a paid subscription model.

4.Udemy

  • Age: +7
  • Price: Paid

Udemy has various courses designed to teach kids Scratch programming. With paid video courses, Udemy offers structured lessons that cover different levels of Scratch coding. It’s perfect for kids who prefer self-paced learning, as they can watch the lessons at their convenience and work on projects.

5. Outschool

  • Age: +6
  • Price: Paid

Outschool is a platform offering live, interactive Scratch coding classes. These classes are led by experienced instructors and cater to various age groups and skill levels. Kids can learn how to create animations, games, and stories using Scratch, all while interacting with their peers in real-time. Each class is individually priced, and parents can choose based on their child’s specific needs.

6. CodeAdvantage

  • Age: +6
  • Price: Paid

CodeAdvantage offers specialized Scratch coding classes for younger children. These classes teach coding through fun and creative projects, helping kids understand the basics of programming. With live, instructor-led sessions, kids get personalized guidance while creating their own projects using Scratch. It’s a paid service with flexible class schedules.

7. YoungWonks

  • Age: +7
  • Price: Paid

YoungWonks is a coding school that offers live online classes, including Scratch programming for kids. The platform provides personalized learning paths where children can develop their coding skills step by step. With small class sizes, YoungWonks ensures that each student gets the attention they need to succeed. It’s a paid platform with a focus on comprehensive learning.

8. Coder Kids

  • Age: +6
  • Price: Paid

Coder Kids provides Scratch coding classes for children in small group settings. Their courses are designed to help kids build their coding knowledge from the ground up, focusing on creativity and logical thinking. Coder Kids offers live sessions with experienced instructors and flexible scheduling options. It’s a paid service with individual and group classes.

9. Create & Learn

  • Age: +6
  • Free with Paid Options

Create & Learn offers both free introductory Scratch coding classes and paid, advanced courses. Kids can explore the basics of Scratch in their free courses, then move on to more complex projects in the paid options. The lessons are designed to inspire creativity and critical thinking while keeping the learning process fun and interactive.

10. Simply Coding

  • Age: +8
  • Price: Paid

Simply Coding offers Scratch coding classes as part of its broader coding curriculum. Their online platform helps kids learn the basics of Scratch, including how to create interactive stories, games, and animations. Simply Coding’s courses are subscription-based, but they offer a free trial for new users. The lessons are structured, making it easy for kids to follow and build their skills.

Learning to code through Scratch is an excellent way for children to start their journey in programming. The visual and interactive nature of Scratch makes it perfect for young learners, helping them grasp coding concepts in a fun and engaging way. With the variety of free, trial, and paid Scratch classes available online, every child has the opportunity to explore coding at their own pace and according to their interests. Whether your child is a complete beginner or looking to expand their skills, these platforms provide the tools needed to inspire a lifelong passion for coding.