5 Unforgettable Computer Science Activities for Kids

Computer Science Week is here, and I’m having the best time helping our 5–10-year-olds connect the dots between coding, careers, and the games they already love.

Here are a few super simple ways to make the week unforgettable:

1. Start with “human coding” - Kids follow step-by-step commands, and suddenly, algorithms make total sense. After pretending to be computer programmers at school, challenge your kids to build a code for daily activities. (i.e.: using the restroom, brushing their teeth, getting ready for bed)

2. Let them sketch their own video game worlds. No devices needed—just imagination. Encourage your little computer artist to create a pixel art image of their own video game world — no device required. 

3. Use quick if/then challenges to show how the same logic behind their favorite games works in real life. Perfect, just throw in an example (If I don’t brush my teeth, if I don’t eat my dinner, if I don’t charge my tablet, then _________)

4. Add a tiny career spotlight. Computer programmers, animators, app designers—kids light up when they see real jobs tied to what they enjoy. *Some parents may not know anybody who codes.* Kids light up when they see their lessons applied in real life, so this week, before they get on Roblox, challenge them to name the parts of their computer.

5. Wrap up with a mini CS Showcase where they talk about their favorite tech job. It’s adorable and surprisingly insightful. Wrap up with a conversation about their favorite activity this week and talk about the job that does that activity. Not only is it adorable, but also insightful.