Coding and Programming for Lower Elementary

Overall I like this app. The children do as well. I think is it a great 'next step' into introduction to coding. It is always amazing to see their reaction when I say that we are going to learn how to 'talk to a computer'. I think it is great to point out that this is a simplified version of how programmers make their favorite video games. This app is great for the beginners and an awesome extension to Robot Races. The students are successful in getting the character to move and then there are more challenging levels for students who are ready to try harder coding. This app is also a great launch pad to other more difficult coding apps. This app has also become a great 'fast finisher' tool. Students can choose to do some 'coding' when they have finished required work. This is great for the students who do not like to 'read when finished' and yet some reading is happening without them even knowing it.

This is a great beginning programing app for young students. It gives them confidence as they pass through levels and solve problems.

Overall, I like the app and think it is very valuable, but should not be used without adult assistance until the words that are on the command block can be mastered by non-readers. I also think it is important for adults to be helping children understand that when they use apps like this, they are "practicing" the work of computer scientists...not just playing games!!