The best coding apps for kids on iPhone and iPad

Coding apps for kids - Box Island

If the child in your life shows an interest in programming, it’s essential to encourage that type of activity. And learning the basics of coding at young age can help boost your child or grandchild’s appreciation and talent for the skill.

Games and apps that teach programming have become popular with the devices we use every day. So if you’d like to give your child the tools they need to explore that interest, then take a look at this list of the best coding apps for kids. And remember, they can be fun for adults to learn programming too!

Programming apps for kids

‎Lightbot: Code Hour

Lightbot Code Hour on iPad

Intended for children ages 4 and above, Lightbot lets your little one jump right in and learn the basics of command. They can then move onto procedures and loops with a cool robot character.

Lightbot features:

  • 20 enjoyable and educational levels
  • Helpful prompts and guides to help your child learn the steps
  • Available in over 25 dialects

Lightbot: Code Hour is available for free without in-app purchases to worry about. And if your child enjoys it, take a look at the follow-up apps Lightbot: Programming Puzzles and Lightbot Jr: Coding Puzzles.

  • Availability: iPhone, iPad, and Android
  • Cost: Free

Box Island

Box Island on iPad

Box Island is a story-driven coding app that teaches kids the basics of programming along with loops and conditionals. Children ages 6 and up can take part a neat 3D journey to an island where they lead cute little Hiro on an adventure.

Box Island features:

  • 100 levels, with the first 10 available for free
  • Learn the fundamentals including sequencing, looping, patterns, and debugging
  • Available in over 25 dialects

With Box Island your child will learn to code while they embark on a fantastic journey that will keep in them interested in learning.

  • Availability: iPhone, iPad, and Android
  • Cost: Free for the first 10 levels with in-app purchases to unlock additional levels

Kodable

Kodable on iPad

Kids ages 4 and above can take a fuzzy friend on a fun trip in Kodable. Your child will learn about sequencing, syntax, variables, and other programming concepts with this enjoyable coding app.

Kodable features:

  • Hundreds of entertaining and educational activities
  • Methods and properties of Object-Oriented Programming
  • Teaches a variety of skills including problem solving, communication, and critical thinking

Kodable is a great app for boys and girls to learn the fundamentals of coding. And teachers can use it in their classrooms as well with the Kodable for Teachers option.

  • Availability: iPhone, iPad, and iMessage
  • Cost: Free one-week trial with subscription options when the trial ends

More coding apps to check out

Along with these terrific programming apps for kids, you might also take a look at these additional options.

Wrapping it up

Make learning fun for your child or grandchild with these enjoyable coding apps. Not only will your little one be entertained but taught the principles of programming at the same time.

Do you have one of these apps already or is there another one that your son or daughter enjoys that you’d like to recommend? Leave a comment below!

For related app lists, take a look at the best iPhone chore apps for kids and families or the best Apple TV educational apps for children.