Every parent wants to teach their kids how to code, but few parents have the time to teach coding to kids. This is where subscription boxes can help provide structure for learning programming and computer science skills.
There are a lot of online resources for programming languages, apps, games, websites, and coding kits for kids, and not all of them are great. Parents should complete thorough research before settling into choosing a program that will provide the right curriculum for learning. Picking the best programming language for kids paired with the best resources to learn coding online can be overwhelming for both parents and teachers.
Coding subscription boxes are a great solution. They are physically mailed coding boxes that contain tools for teaching kids around engineering and math. There are a variety of brands that offer monthly STEM subscription boxes which are mailed right to your doorstep! It contains several tools, lessons, projects, and other activities geared toward teaching students how to code.
This article highlights everything you need to know to get started with kids' subscription boxes for coding, and the best coding subscription boxes for kids.
Overview of Coding Subscription Boxes for Kids
Coding subscription boxes are great for solving boredom with kids and getting them to learn instead of consuming media. The tools and projects with a subscription service are renewed every month, with added features to keep learning interesting and fun. Across all brands, subscription boxes are planned out for kids and it covers a wide array of subjects.
The subscription boxes are designed for kids of specific ages. This creates an opportunity for every kid, regardless of their age, to benefit from a set of curriculum designed for their grade and age of learning.
Skills Gained from Subscription Services for Monthly Coding Boxes
Some of the many skills kids stand to gain from coding subscription boxes are phenomenal and stay with them into adulthood.
Computational Thinking
Kids subscription boxes for coding will help them develop their computational skills. They will learn the art of decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithm.
Independent Thinking
The ability to think independently and execute tasks without much guidance is a big flex! Coding subscription boxes for kids gives them the ability to follow tasks and complete projects independently. This is a life-long skill that will continue to remain relevant for them.
Problem Solving and Logical Thinking
This is another essential skill kids need to possess to be successful in their subjects and careers. The subscription boxes come with a handbook to guide them through the process, but they need logical thinking and problem-solving skills to ace the activities.
Creative Thinking
There’s so much more kids can achieve with the subscription boxes for kids. It activates their creative minds and challenges them to think outside the box!
Computer Skills
Many of these kids subscription boxes for coding require a computer connection. This will help kids to understand the rudiments of a computer.
All About Computer Programming Subscription Boxes
Subscription boxes for kids have different types. Some kids are pure science-related, which focus largely on scientific innovations, among others. Computer programming subscription boxes aim at teaching kids all about computer programming and coding.
Robotics, electronics, gaming, engineering, etc, are all subsets of computer programming. Parents can choose the most suitable boxes based on their kids’ interests. The Dungeon Crate subscription box, for instance, focuses on teaching gaming to kids. It comes with dice, codes, and modules for online download.
Beyond learning computer programming, the subscription boxes equip kids with the basic logic of coding as computer programmers.
Things to Know About Coding Subscription Boxes
Just as mentioned earlier, kids subscription boxes for coding vary in terms of themes, types, function, and age. Some subscription boxes have provisions across all age groups, while others are designed to fit into just a particular age group.
Here are the top 7 coding subscription boxes for kids (in no particular order).
Bitsbox
Bitsbox currently holds the position of the best coding subscription box for kids. Bitsbox is an all-rounder subscription box. Each month’s subscription comes with a new surprise theme. The themes cover activities on robots, animals, music, games, etc. It is perfectly suitable for beginners, and kids have a whole month to learn about the theme for that month’s subscription. Bitsbox is also suitable for kids between the ages of 6-12.
Bitsbox is packaged nicely, and it comes with a binder that keeps all study materials in one piece. It also allows multiple app projects. Kids will create tasks online and play them after they have been completed. There is also a teacher’s guide that highlights the coding terms and projects for the month.
Bitsbox is in two sets- the Basic Bitsbox and Deluxe Bitsbox. The Deluxe Bitsbox- $37.95 monthly- is more expensive, and in addition to the basic features, it contains a set of trading cards with more apps to build on, a mystery toy, and temporary tattoos. The basic Bitbox is currently a $24.95 monthly subscription.
- VOTED #1 STEM BOX FOR KIDS - Kids start by coding from examples and progress quickly to inventing their own apps.
- PERFECT FOR KIDS AGES 6 TO 12 - No previous coding experience is necessary. Each kit includes a helpful Grownup Guide and unlimited email support, too!
- REAL COMPUTER PROGRAMMING - And crazy fun! Bitsbox delivers coding projects that teach kids to make video games, greeting cards, simulations and more. Bonus! Apps work on real phones and tablets!
MakeCrate
MakeCrate involves hands-on learning for kids to learn programming, engineering, and robotics. The activities also combine both hardware and software (coding) learning methods. The monthly subscription box is an upgrade from the previous, and kids can combine both old and new tools to create something amazing!
Kids also have the opportunity to complete at least two monthly projects with the kit. Some of the amazing projects kids can create with the MakeCrate subscription box include an electronic game, a room alarm, a circuit, and a calculator, among others.
The step-by-step guide to completing each project, and the tons of video tutorials make MaeCrate easy and fun for kids to learn. You can get a Makecrate subscription box for as low as $24.95 per month.
MakeCrate is only perfect for kids aged 13 and above.
Groovy Lab STEM Subscription Box
This kit is geared towards kids interested in engineering and building rockets. Each month’s subscription comes with a new engineering challenge that kids must create. Kids will learn how to make balloon rockets, paper rockets, foam rockets, marble runners, guitars, and much more.
The Groovy Lab subscription box is suitable for kids who want a future in Engineering. It is also suitable for kids between the ages of 5-12. It also comes with a study guide and lessons tailored for both individuals and groups. Kids can also study the lab note, and read ahead of the practicals to make learning easier and fun.
Instructors are not left out either, as the box provides a section in the lab note to help them guide kids towards creating amazing projects!
Younger kids between the ages of 4 and 7 are not left out as there is a Young Creators Series box just for them.
Creation Crate Subscription Box
The Creation Crate is one of the best subscription boxes for kids. With a monthly subscription of $29.99, kids can create multiple projects, including sounding an alarm when movement is spotted, a weather forecast device, FM radio, and other electronic projects.
The box is compatible with Arduino and it brings kids to the world of electronics and programming. It also allows for growth, as the projects become more challenging with every subscription that passes.
Kids will also have access to the online community, which widens their imaginations and helps them see how they can make a career out of coding and electronics. Parents who have specific targets for their kids can customize the subject of their box and have it delivered.
Cons
- There have been reports of overheating.
- It is too complex for younger kids.
Thimble Coding Crate
Want your kids to learn coding, robotics, and engineering? Then Thimble is best for you! Unlike other subscription boxes, Thimble does not provide a monthly subscription plan. Rather, you get to purchase the full course and make a learning plan across several weeks.
The kit is modeled after Arduino, and it is compatible with several programming kits. Kids can make amazing projects like a doorbell alarm, an intruder alarm, a robot friend, and many more! Kids will also learn about block coding and how to build blocks. The complete course is packaged into 12 mini-projects.
The basic Thimble Crate box is $99, while the advanced kit introduces advanced robotics and programming. Sold at $199, the advanced kit is totally worth it!
Cons
- It does not give kids the thrill of having their kits delivered to them monthly.
- It eliminates the excitement of trying out a new kit every month.
- Because it is a one-time subscription, the Thimble Coding Crate boxes are high in price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most programming languages have proven to be as effective in teaching kids how to code. The best-proven coding language, however, for kids is Scratch.
Due to its use of blocks and visual modes, Scratch has been considered the best programming language to teach kids.
Python comes in next as the easiest coding language for kids. To know more about the easiest programming languages to teach kids, click here.
Deciding on whether to teach coding to kids is personal. Teaching coding to kids has its advantages, as well as its disadvantages. It is up to parents to understand both sides and decide if they want to teach coding to their kids.
Summary Subscription Boxes for Kids
Subscription boxes for kids are awesome! This article has provided a guide on how to choose the best coding subscription boxes for kids. Invest in your kids’ future and watch them ace their careers!
Coding, Robotics, and 3D Printer Gift Guide for Kids
This is the best gift guide for kids who love technology and gadgets.
- Best Toys to Teach Kids Coding
- ToyBox 3D Printer
- Computer Keyboards Made Specifically for Kids
- Best Monthly Coding Subscription Boxes for Kids
- Best Fiction Books About Robots for Young Kids
- Gift Guide for Teens Who Love Coding and Programming
- Gift Guide for Middle School Kids Who Love Computer Science
- Tinker Crate - Is it worth it?
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