Coding for Kids
Did you know that programming is now a vital skill for young students? Experts say that “Code has become the 4th literacy,” on par with the traditional trio of reading, writing, and arithmetic. Moms and dads agree; according to a recent Gallup poll, over 90% of parents want their kids to learn programming. For many, addressing this need is as simple as finding the right school. However, if you are one of the millions of parents who homeschool, you might be unsure about how to show your child the world of coding.
Luckily, Tynker makes it easy to introduce your kids to code. Tynker provides scaffolded coding courses for grade levels K-8 that you can adapt to your home curriculum. Your child will have so much fun in Tynker that they’ll hardly realize how much they’re learning!
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The Tynker Learning Program
Tynker’s complete learning program makes coding accessible and approachable for your child. The process begins with code blocks, which allow children to create a program piece by piece, like a Lego™ set. Kids learn how to use these code blocks in puzzles and activities featuring a colorful cast of characters. Your child can progress at his or her own pace, discovering key coding concepts one step at a time.
Tynker also provides a seemingly endless array of resources and projects, many of which are useful for more than just coding. You can use Tynker lessons to help reinforce math, science, and language arts skills. Kids can use geometry to make animations, practice storytelling using avatars, and simulate physics for games.
If your child loves video games, you can bring that enthusiasm into the world of coding with Tynker’s course series on Minecraft Modding. And after kids master the basics with code blocks, they can transition to JavaScript and Python with Tynker’s text coding courses.
Tried and True
Tynker is already trusted by many homeschooling parents, and this year received Homeschool Base’s Purple Stamp of Approval and was named one of their top 10 STEM educational websites.
It isn’t hard to see why: Tynker courses provide fun, independent learning experiences for homeschooled kids, including Kareyn, a 12-year-old homeschool student who wants to be a pharmacist when she grows up. “I like to code because I like to tell stories, and I might be a writer too when I grow up,” Kareyn says. “Tynker is a storytelling outlet for me where I can tell my stories with different code.”
9-year-old Zane, who is also homeschooled, loves making games with Tynker in his spare time, and his mom Sarah, says, “He’s always enjoyed learning how things work and taking things apart, so we thought he had the right kind of brain for really enjoying the programming.”
If you’re looking for a way to give your child a foundation in programming and inspire a lifelong love of making, look no further! Tynker makes it easy to integrate fun coding experiences into your homeschool curriculum. For homeschoolers, the possibilities are endless with Tynker.
Best Homeschool Computer Programming Curriculum
Selecting the best homeschool computer programming curriculum depends on the student’s age, interests, and learning style. Visual programming languages like Scratch, Tynker, and Blockly offer an engaging, interactive introduction to coding for younger children. Platforms such as Tynker, Khan Academy, Codecademy, and Code.org provide various lessons and activities for multiple age groups and skill levels. For teenagers, consider curricula focused on programming languages like Python, JavaScript, or C++, using resources like Tynker, Coursera, or Udemy for comprehensive, structured courses. Consider the student’s goals, interests, and potential career aspirations when selecting a curriculum. Opt for a well-rounded program incorporating real-world projects, collaborative opportunities, and resources for continued learning to foster a strong foundation in computer programming.
What are some resources for Minecraft homeschool classes?
Minecraft homeschool classes provide a unique, immersive learning experience for students. Minecraft: Education Edition is a powerful resource, offering lesson plans and activities that integrate subjects like history, math, and science within the Minecraft environment. Various online platforms, such as Tynker, Outschool, SKrafty, and Connected Camps, offer instructor-led Minecraft courses covering coding, architecture, and teamwork. Homeschool co-ops or local groups may also provide Minecraft classes, fostering social interaction and collaboration. Additionally, YouTube channels like Mumbo Jumbo and Grian provide educational tutorials and project ideas. When choosing resources, consider the child’s interests, skill level, and learning objectives to ensure a rewarding and engaging Minecraft homeschool experience.
Homeschooling Curriculum FAQs
Should I sign up for a parent or a teacher account?
Homeschooling parents should sign up for parent accounts. Parent accounts are designed for parents managing just a few children, whereas teacher accounts are designed to manage tens or hundreds of students in many different classrooms.
Which program should I buy for my child, the home courses or school courses?
If you’re interested in Tynker programming courses, please see our home courses, not school courses. School courses are not available for fewer than 30 students.
Do you offer discounts for multiple children?
Yes! If you add more than one child to a yearly or lifetime plan, you will get 50% off on all subscriptions after the first one. The discount will be reflected in your cart.
How can I monitor my child’s learning?
When you create an account for your child, you can also set up a parent account. You can log in to your parent account to see what your child is creating, what lessons they’ve been working on, and even what concepts they’ve learned.
How much coding experience do I need for my child to use Tynker?
You don’t need any coding experience for your child to learn coding with Tynker. Setup is a breeze, and as soon as your child has an account, they can learn on their own with fun, gamified activities at their own pace. You can log in to your parent account to access answer keys for all activities. And if you run into any issues, we’re always here to help! Just send us an email at support@tynker.com.
What devices can my child use to work on Tynker courses?
Your child needs a laptop, desktop, or Chromebook computer to work on Tynker courses. We offer a supplementary free app for iPads tablets that you can download for your child. Your child can log in on the app, continue working on their projects, and access additional games and activities.
To use Tynker’s Minecraft modding courses, you will need to own a copy of Minecraft Classic, also known as Minecraft Java Edition.
How can I be sure my child will enjoy Tynker?
We want you to love Tynker (and we think you will). That’s why we offer a complete satisfaction guarantee. If you are not happy with your purchase for any reason, just send us an email at support@tynker.com within 30 days of purchase and we’ll refund the full cost of your subscription.
