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• Types of Programs

What will my child learn in a Scratch class?

How to use the Scratch platform. In Scratch classes, kids become experts on all things Scratch. They learn how to navigate the platform and understand all the components that go into creating Scratch projects. This includes things like:

• how to put together different blocks of code to create movement
• how to create custom costumes for a character
• how to incorporate sound into a creation

Classes start out with creating basic animations and games. Once kids have mastered the basics, they’ll be able to add more complexity and customizations to their creations.

Basic programming concepts. Scratch uses graphical coding to teach kids programming basics. There’s no programming language, or lines of text-based code to learn. Rather, the platform uses symbols and pictures to teach concepts like sprites, loops, events, recursion, and sequences. These basic concepts are the foundation of coding. From here, kids have a much easier time learning programming, if they choose to pursue it further.

Logic skills. Programming can be thought of as an execution of logic. It requires one to break down a problem into all its parts then, analyze it, using logical reasoning to solve it. Coding teaches kids to think critically and systematically. They experiment with different solutions and adjust their method through trial and error. Under the watchful eye of course instructors, young Scratch programmers develop valuable critical thinking skills.  

Independence. Scratch class encourages kids to work independently. The curriculum is self-paced, and instructors provide guidance as needed. In this structured setting, kids gain confidence as they complete a project all on their own. Kids dream up their own idea and execute its creation. Learning to think independently, kids gain confidence from solving problems and confronting challenges on their own.

Math skills. Coding requires kids to use logical reasoning to solve problems. Kids break down problems into parts, the process used to solve math equations. Through Scratch lessons, math concepts become more accessible, and kids will find math class easier.  

What are the benefits of Scratch classes?

Express creativity. Scratch lets kids’ imagination soar! The platform allows kids to create their own video game, animated story, or virtual world. From jungle scenes to birthday greetings and TV shows - kids can create anything they imagine. Scratch programming gives kids a fantastic creative outlet with lots of learning involved, too!

Share your work with the community. In its online platform and community, Scratch encouragers young programmers share animations and games. Scratchers can share their creations so other kids around the world can play them. Scratchers see their ideas put into practice. They can also get inspired by others’ work, or have their work inspire others!

Learn through play. Simply put, Scratch classes are fun! The Scratch platform teaches kids the basics of coding through interactive animations and games. With a focus on storytelling and game building, kids hardly realize how much they’re learning. Scratch courses like those above introduce kids to the world of coding in a fun and easy way.

Hands-on learning. Scratch class immerses kids in learning. It’s a completely visual and experiential curriculum. They learn by doing, not studying a textbook, and trying to grasp a concept through reading. Kids actively take part in learning, building projects and learning along the way. For kids who are visual or kinesthetic learners, Scratch class presents a perfect learning opportunity.

Intuitive introduction to coding. Coding is intimidating for many kids, but Scratch makes programming easy and fun! Scratch coding is easy to understand, using graphical coding to teach kids basic concepts, rather than relying on text-based code. There's no language for kids to learn, and it introduces it in a non-technical fashion. Basic concepts learned in a Scratch class, however, can be applied to more advanced training.

One-on-one instruction. Classes we list offer small class sizes. While it varies based on the course provider, there’s an average of 3 to 5 students per class. This allows instructors to give each student personalized attention. Instructors can take time to guide kids through concepts they find difficult. Certified, highly skilled instructors offer kids the best learning.

What to look for in Scratch classes

Scratch classes listed here are generally categorized based on age or grade level. Some offer slightly different programming. For parents, it’s helpful to understand the way your child learns, to understand the type of environment they’ll thrive in. If your child is interested in Scratch, there are a few things you may consider while finding the right class for them.

Here are some guiding questions:

• Does your child prefer self-paced learning, or do they learn better with guidance?
• Does the class offer a free trial for kids to see if they like it prior to enrolling?
• Does the class teach any additional programming languages, in addition to Scratch?
• What is the student-to-instructor ratio?
• Does the class provide any homework, and if so, how much?
• What are the qualifications of instructors?
• How much experience do teachers have in Scratch instruction, as well as coding?
• How is feedback given to kids?

Camps and programs related to Scratch 

At OurKids.net, you can discover thousands of different camps and after-school experiences. Every child and parent should explore the many learning and personal growth opportunities on our site. Expand your horizons by starting with the list of suggestions below:

Minecraft camps encourage young kids to explore this immensely popular building environment in weeklong (or longer) sessions. Minecraft after-school programs range from introductory classes for novices to classes where they're surrounded by fellow builders and modders, intensively exploring design and building.

Roblox camp engages campers in game creation, terrain building, and the Lua coding that provides the source for Roblox. This increasingly popular game-building platform is an ideal next step for kids who've mastered Scratch.

STEAM camps, STEM camps, STEAM after-school and STEM after-school all teach curriculum that blends science, technology, engineering, and math (as well as arts, in the case of STEAM). Camps and programs listed on our site offer education at the level of kids' understanding, ranging in age from 6 to 18 and up.

Video game design camp is another logical next step for Scratch coders graduating to serious programmers. Students develop skills in a variety of coding languages and building platforms. Camps introduce Scratch grads to more complex languages or offer intense instruction for teens with career ambitions in this area.

Gaming camps are a fun excursion that lets kids set aside the keyboard and pick up the controller, as they play popular games. Camps offer a weeklong or longer immersion in gaming, and kids meet and compete with other gamers.

Consult more information from OurKids.net: 

Learn more about Scratch programming and the platform from around the web

Scratch (programming language). Wikipedia.org. 

What is Scratch Programming? Youtube.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Scratch classes are there?
There are 6 programs specializing in Scratch. In addition, there are 23 programs offering scratch as an activity. Use the filters to narrow by age and program type, then click on matched programs to see daily activities, dates, rates and registration information.

What are the fees to attend Scratch classes?
Fees for Scratch classes range from $27 to $350 per program (program types and lengths vary). Use the filters here to narrow programs by age and type.

What age do Scratch classes start at?
There are programs available for children aged 5 through 17.

Where can parents meet with Scratch classes?
Meet with program directors and staff at the Our Kids Camp & Program Expo. The Expo is held annually in February, and is a fun and informative day for parents, kids, and teens. Find event details and free tickets here.