Description #
CodeSpark Academy is a gamified coding platform designed for children ages 5–9 that teaches programming fundamentals through icon-based puzzles and story-driven challenges — all without using any written words.
History #
CodeSpark was founded in 2014 by Grant Hosford and Joe Shochet to provide an accessible, reading-free coding experience for young children. The app has since reached millions of learners globally and has been used in over 35,000 schools.
Hello World Code #
There’s no typed code — children use picture blocks (like arrows, loops, and actions) to build commands. A “Hello World” equivalent might be:
[Start] → [Character moves to object] → [Object speaks: "Hello, World!"]The concept is taught through story interactions rather than literal code output.
How to Run #
Option 1: Online
https://dashboard.codespark.com/ (Teacher portal)
https://codespark.com/
Option 2: Local
- Available on iOS, Android, Kindle, and Chrome OS
- Download from App Store or Google Play
- Free for teachers; subscriptions available for parents
Key Concepts #
- Icon-based programming (no reading required)
- Sequencing and logic
- Loops and conditions
- Problem-solving via gamified levels
- Story-based learning
- Progress tracking and achievements
- Designed for pre-readers and early learners
- Creative coding with game and story creation tools
- Classroom-friendly dashboard
- Gender-neutral, inclusive character design
Try It Online #
https://codespark.com/play (requires account)
Fun Facts #
- Used in Apple’s Everyone Can Code initiative
- Backed by research from UCLA and MIT
- Award-winning design praised by Common Sense Media and Parents’ Choice Foundation
Resources #
Official site
Docs or tutorial
[GitHub or interpreter](Not open source)
Community or learning resources
