Description #
Tynker is a web-based visual programming platform designed to teach children and beginners how to code using block-based logic. It allows learners to build games, animations, and even control drones and robots with an intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
History #
Tynker was launched in 2013 by Krishna Vedati and his team to make programming more accessible for young learners. It quickly became one of the most widely adopted platforms for K–8 coding education in schools and homes.
Key milestones:
- Partnered with Minecraft, Barbie, and NASA to create themed learning experiences
- Officially supported in Apple’s Everyone Can Code initiative
- Used in over 100,000 schools worldwide
- Offers both block coding and real text-based languages like Python and JavaScript
Hello World Code #
In Tynker’s block-based interface, a simple “Hello, World!” looks like:
[on start] → [say "Hello, World!"]If converted to Python in advanced mode:
print("Hello, World!")How to Run #
- Visit https://www.tynker.com/
- Create a free student account
- Start a new project
- Drag out a “Say” block and enter “Hello, World!”
- Click the Play button to run
📝 Older students can switch to Python or JavaScript mode with real code.
Key Concepts #
- Visual blocks — represent commands and logic
- Drag-and-drop coding — no syntax errors
- On-start triggers — run logic when the program starts
- Say block — displays text on screen (like print)
- Multi-modal learning — transitions from blocks to real code
- Game design — create animations, characters, levels
- Cross-platform — use in browser, iPad, or Chromebook
- STEM integration — supports math, science, and robotics
- Safe for kids — COPPA compliant and classroom-ready
- Built-in tutorials — structured self-paced learning paths
Try It Online #
🔗 Tynker Home
🔗 Tynker for Schools
🔗 Tynker Hour of Code
Fun Facts #
- Tynker powers coding courses used by Apple’s Swift Playgrounds
- NASA uses Tynker for space-themed coding missions for kids
- With Tynker, kids can control LEGO robots, drones, and smart devices
- It features over 5,000 learning modules and projects
- Tynker’s block coding can generate real-world Python/JS code under the hood
