Coding for Kids

Girl using a tablet in front of computer code

Coding for Kids

For Ages 8-12

“Testing leads to failure, and failure leads to understanding.”
– Burt Rutan

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Class Schedule

This next series of coding classes will run for 6 weeks and be held Tuesday through Saturday from 4:00-5:00pm on the second floor of the Idaho Falls Public Library. Classes start Tuesday, October 22nd, and end Saturday, November 30th. Sign up to attend just one of the daily sessions, then attend each week on that day until the end of the course.

**No classes will be held November 12th or 28th.

Registration

Each daily session is limited to 10 students and is open to junior library patrons, ages 8-12. Classes are free, but an active library card is required. The library will provide Chromebooks during class instruction.

Don’t wait to sign up! Spots fill up very quickly.

Coding facts

  • Computer science majors earn 40% more over their career than the average college graduate.
  • 74% of new STEM jobs are in computing, but only 8% of STEM grads are in computer science.
  • Computer programming jobs are growing at twice the national average.
  • Coding promotes logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
  • Kids love it!

FAQs

Why Coding?

Coding is quickly becoming as important a literacy skill as the ABCs and 123s. In coding for Kids, we introduce youth to coding to give them a head start on learning these skills.

What will my kid do in Coding for Kids?

In Coding for Kids, we learn the basics of computer programming, how to make simple video games, and more.

How will my kid learn coding?

Using specially designed, web-based programs, kids engage in challenges and work on projects that teach them how to code at their own pace.

Who Teaches Coding for Kids?

The kids are their own teachers. An IFPL staff member serves as a facilitator, mentor, and cheerleader for the kids while they participate in a self-driven learning experience.

Why is there an age limit?

Kids must be independent readers and able to understand written directions to join.

When does Coding for Kids meet?

We will have five chapters (classes) of Coding for Kids, each meeting once a week, Tuesday through Saturday. Kids can register for the day of the week that best fits their schedules. They will attend classes on that day throughout the program.

How do my kids register for Coding for Kids?

Ask at the Makerspace Desk on the 2nd floor or or contact catkinson@ifpl.org

What if the day my kid wants is full?

When a day fills, kids can put their names on a waitlist for that day in case a spot opens.

Does my kid have to attend on the same day every week?

Yes. Space is limited to 10 kids per class, so kids will not be able to come except on the day they registered

Can my kid sign up for more than one day?

No. Space is limited to 10 kids per class, so kids will not be able to come except on the days they registered.

What if my kid misses a week?

Since the software we use in Coding for Kids is web-based, kids can log in from anywhere to work on projects or they can pick up where they left off when they return to class.

Do parents need to come too?

We invite parents to join us for the introduction at our first meeting and the show at our last meeting. Otherwise, the classes are for kids only.

What if I have more questions?

For more information or questions, ask at the 2nd Floor Makerspace desk or contact makerspace@ifpl.org


For more information about Coding for Kids, call 208-612-8460 and ask for the Makerspace Desk or use our online contact form.