Best coding apps for kids
Block-based and beginner programming environments that teach children and teens to code by building games, animations and apps.
4 apps, ordered by visits from AppBreakup and how often our research lists each one as an alternative. Open any app to see its alternatives.
All coding apps for kids
- Alternatives to Scratch
Free block-based coding tool and online community where kids make games, stories and animations.
FreeOpen sourceWeb, Windows, macOS, Android - Alternatives to Snap!
Free browser-based block programming language from UC Berkeley that extends Scratch with custom blocks.
Open sourceWeb - Alternatives to CodeAI (formerly Code.org)
Nonprofit offering free K-12 computer science and AI courses, known as Code.org until 2026.
FreeWeb - Alternatives to Swift Playground
Apple's free iPad and Mac app for learning to code in Swift and building simple apps.
FreeiOS, macOS
Our picks by need
Best for most people
ScratchBest for a free option
Snap!Best for open source
ScratchBest for Mac
Swift PlaygroundBest for Windows
ScratchCommon questions
What are the best coding apps for kids?
Based on how often our research lists them as alternatives and visits from AppBreakup, the leading coding apps for kids right now are Scratch, Snap!, CodeAI (formerly Code.org) and Swift Playground.
Are there free coding apps for kids?
Yes. Scratch (free), Snap! (open source), CodeAI (formerly Code.org) (free) and Swift Playground (free) have a free option, out of 4 free or freemium apps we track.
Which coding apps for kids are open source?
Scratch and Snap!.