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The world’s dependence on computers and the Internet is steadily increasing, and the demand for those well versed in the languages of JavaScript and HTML is on the rise. Learn about these five top-notch initiatives that are making sure that computer science accessible, fun and engaging for today’s youngsters.
1. CODE CLUB
WHAT: A British nationwide network of free volunteer-led after school coding clubs for kids.
HOW: Code Club create projects for their talented volunteers who instruct children once a week for an hour at after-school coding clubs or local libraries. The projects teach youngsters how to make their own computer games, animations and website. Currently there are 1,932 Code Clubs reaching over 27,000 kids.
THE X FACTOR: The nonprofit wants to make code accessible not only for kids but teachers. That is why they created Code Club Pro to offer training and resources for teachers so that they may feel confident and enthused about spreading the love of computing to their students.
AGES: 9 to 11
2. MADE WITH CODE
WHAT: A Google initiative that’s aim is to encourage girls to get interested in computer science.
HOW: The world of computer science is imagined through the eyes and interest level of girls as the site hosts an array of cool projects that use code to design bracelets, avatars and beats.
THE X FACTOR: Made With Code has partnered with such notables as Chelsea Clinton, MIT Media Lab, Mindy Kaling and Girl Scouts of the USA to provide resources and local events to those wanting to learn more.
AGES: 7 and up
3. CODESTARTER
WHAT: Codestarter donates computers to underserved youth who cannot afford to purchase their own so that they may learn computer code.
HOW: The nonprofit partners with organizations that teach computer programming and Codestarter provides laptops and software (Code Kits). High potential students who are interested in code but cannot buy their own laptop have the potential to receive their own donated computer through Codestarter funders.
THE X FACTOR: For every laptop donated, the proud donor receives a personalized thank-you note from the grateful laptop recipient. The generous givers also receive quarterly updates on the progress of the students as Codestarter monitors their growth to ensure they continue thriving and coding.
AGES: 7 to 17
4. CODE.ORG
WHAT: This nonprofit is all about spreading computer programming education by integrating it into local schools’ core curriculum, with a special focus on girls and minority students.
HOW: Code.org offers Hour of Code tutorials that kids can do at school or at home, in addition to their Intro Course which has been used in 31,000 classrooms, reaching 1.3 million students.
THE X FACTOR: Making computer science a priority, Code.org trains teachers and also lobbies on behalf of expanding school curriculum to make sure it is required in local school districts throughout the United States.
AGES: 6 to 17
5. GIRLS WHO CODE
WHAT: The nonprofit is looking to close the gender gap in the technology sector, and boost the influence of female techies.
HOW: The organization provides young adults with education along with mentorship from top-tier female engineers and executives in technology.
THE X FACTOR: Girls Who Code offers a summer immersion program, along with the Girls Who Code Clubs – a repackaged version of the signature program which can be replicated inside schools and community organizations.
AGES: 12 to 18
