Coding for Kids: Code Monkey

This post is all about our experience with a coding for kids resource we have been using in our homeschool.

People tend to think of homeschoolers as out of touch with the real world. To some extent, yes, I agree. I definitely aim to preserve our kids’ childhoods. We are probably considered more on the conservative side of personal device usage, sleepovers, and isolation in general.

In that regard, yes we enjoying our little delay on the flow of culture. However, when it comes to marketable skills, I do make an effort to find resources that can teach my kids. It is finding the right resources that is key.

Have you considered teaching coding to your kids? I have not. My goal is not for them to master coding, but more of an exposure to the concepts in case any of them take a liking to it. Since I have zero expertise in this field, I needed to find the right resource to gently teach my younger kids. Here is what I found!

This post is all about a coding for kids resource we are using in our homeschool.

Code Monkey: Coding for Kids

What is Code Monkey?

Code Monkey is an online platform for teaching coding to kids (and teens). You do not need any prior experience to start. As young as 5, kids can start programming to solve puzzles and build their own games! The program is designed for kids 5-14 years of age. The interface is so interactive and colorful. Scroll down for a 25% off discount!

Did you know there is a whole coding language? I’m learning right alongside my kids, but they are being introduced to Coffeescript and Python, text-coding, and block-coding. Sitting with them makes me realize how coding is not just teaching my kids computer science skills, but also teaching an understanding of how computers work.

Coding for Kids – Not a Burden for Parents

With the free trial, I was able to easily sign up. Once I created a parent and student login, my child was able to take it from there. Unlike other coding programs for kids, this is very user-friendly with a straight forward approach. I love the parent dashboard where you can check on the progress of your child. You can also assign courses for them to take to progress to the next level.

Since this is not a core subject in our homeschool day, I like that we can schedule this in as a loop subject. It is a self-paced course. The courses level up at a reasonable pace so it has been a frustration-free experience. The challenges are just challenging enough so it keeps it interesting and encouraging. Students are provided with clear instructions and guidance so they can move through the course independently.

What My Kids Like About Code Monkey

Keep in mind that my kids have tried a couple other coding for kids programs, so their opinions are comparing against those.

I asked my 12 year old son what he liked most about Code Monkey. He said he liked that their are a lot of varying levels. Even though you start with really simple puzzles, it progresses at a nice pace. No frustration experienced, but challenging enough to exercise your brain.

My 9 year old daughter said she makes a lot of errors, but likes the challenge of trying to solve the puzzles. She likes the idea of being able to create her own game once her skill level increases!

Try it at an Crazy Discount!

Code Monkey has provided friends of Juice Box Homeschool a special discount of 25% off on a subscription! Head to the link, and enter “CMJBH25” for 25% off your subscription. It can be a really nice break from the homeschool routine or reward for the day. Let me know what you think!