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Coding
Microsoft MakeCode
Microsoft’s set of block-and-text coding editors for making arcade games and programming small devices.
MakeCode is several editors rather than one course. Arcade is for retro-style games, the micro:bit editor programs a small board, and a Minecraft route needs Minecraft Education. Tutorials and skill maps lead into a first project, and the supported editors let children move from blocks to text.
- Ages
- Choose by reading and coding readiness
- Works on
- Web browser
- Topics
- Coding
- Languages
- English
- Listed
- 2026-10-11
What kids do
- Build a retro-style game
- Follow a skill map
- Program a simulated micro:bit
- Switch to text code
Who it suits
Blocks give beginners a starting point, and text code is there for when they want it.
Notes for parents
Built-in simulators run micro:bit programs on screen without the hardware. A first visit can stay focused on one game mechanic or one device effect.
What you need
- Web browser
In these guides
- Coding for kids, from picture blocks to typed Python: Where kids can start coding at 4, 7 or 11: picture-block apps, Scratch, typed Python and robots, in the order many children come across them.
More Coding
- Code.org / CodeAI: Guided coding activities alongside open tools for making games, animations, apps and web pages.
- ScratchJr: Picture-based programming blocks for making characters move and telling interactive stories.
- Scratch: Interactive stories, animations and games built by snapping visual coding blocks together.
- Kodable Basics: Maze-style coding challenges that begin with sequences and patterns.
- codeSpark: Coding for Kids: Coding puzzles that don’t rely on reading, leading into tools for making stories and games.
- Tynker: Coding for Kids: Guided coding puzzles, game-making and Minecraft-related projects.
- Hopscotch: Programming for Kids: Tutorials and open creation tools for building games and other interactive projects.
- Tynker Junior: Coding for Kids: Picture commands, voiceovers and themed adventures that introduce sequencing, loops and conditions.