ScratchJr: A Fun Introduction to Coding for Young Children (Ages 5-7)
ScratchJr is a visual programming language designed to help children aged 5 and up create their own interactive stories and games. Kids use colorful blocks to program characters, making them move, jump, sing, and dance. They can even customize characters with a built-in paint editor, add their own voices and sounds, and include personal photos, bringing their creations to life.
Inspired by the popular Scratch programming language, ScratchJr simplifies the interface and programming concepts to be developmentally appropriate for younger learners. The app carefully considers young children's cognitive, social, and emotional development in its design.
We believe coding is a crucial skill, much like reading and writing. It helps children organize their thoughts and express their ideas creatively. ScratchJr empowers children to become creators, not just consumers, of technology.
Through coding with ScratchJr, children develop problem-solving and project design skills, essential for future academic success. They also strengthen sequencing skills and utilize math and language in engaging ways, supporting early numeracy and literacy development. It's coding to learn, not just learning to code.
ScratchJr is a collaborative project involving Tufts University, the MIT Media Lab, and the Playful Invention Company, with Two Sigma contributing to the Android version. HvingtQuatre Company and Sarah Thomson created the app's graphics.
This free app is available for tablets 7 inches or larger running Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) or higher. If you enjoy using ScratchJr, please consider supporting the Scratch Foundation (http://www.scratchfoundation.org).
Version 1.5.11 (Updated November 28, 2023): This update includes minor bug fixes and improvements. Download the latest version to experience these enhancements!
Terms of Use: http://www.scratchjr.org/eula.html
