Learn Coding without a Computer Offline Unplugged for Kids

Who says coding can only be done with a computer or gadget? The world has been so focused on equipping kids with these technological and digital trends that we forget there’s a whole lot of fun outside the computer.

With every good, there is always a defect - although STEM for kids is awesome, parents and instructors should consider the risks of exposing kids to the digital world at an early age. Coding for kids retains multiple benefits, and while learning how to code with a computer is great, offline coding for kids is safer and equally great. There are other benefits of offline coding and hands-on activities for kids, some of which include the ability to focus on learning rather than getting distracted by gadgets, collaboration skills, computational thinking, etc.

Coding equips learners with problem solving skills, creativity, logical reasoning, etc., all of which kids can learn through screen free coding activities. In this article, you will learn all about offline coding activities to teach kids programming, and the best activities to teach coding for kids without a screen.

All About Offline Coding Activities

Unplugged coding is one of the best ways to get started with coding for kids. It teaches young kids the importance of collaboration and human relations. Most of the offline coding activities require two or more people to complete, so kids will learn teamwork and collaboration.

Learning with a computer is pretty chic, but it is important that kids adopt the habit of reading and thinking independently to solve problems. The world is fast evolving, and computer science skill is necessary for kids to survive in their subjects and careers, and it opens up more opportunities for kids in the STEM space. However, kids also need to be properly grounded in offline activities like reading and doing physical activities to balance their knowledge.

One of the best ways to start teaching kids computer science and coding concepts is through offline coding activities. It increases their attention span and grounds them in the foundations of programming and STEM as a whole. Offline coding activities are just as exciting and intriguing for kids. Kids will master coding terminologies like algorithms, debugging, if…then statements, loops, logical and sequential thinking, and many more.

One great thing about offline coding for kids is that you do not have to break the bank to teach your kids how to code! Parents can engage their kids in simple offline coding activities like a sock-sorting game, coding Simon says, if…then, teach a robot to stack cups, and much more. In other words, offline coding activities for kids are just as important for kids to gain expertise in science, technology, robotics, engineering, electronics, programming, and math.

Cons of Offline Coding Activities for Kids

For every advantage, there is always a disadvantage. Offline coding activities for kids are exciting, but it also comes with their perks. Here are the cons of teaching screen free coding activities for kids.

• Kids may find it less exciting, compared to learning with a computer
• Learning how to code off screen might consume more time and take longer periods to learn.
• Unplugged coding might be difficult for kids to learn.

All About Coding and Programming Logic

Coding and programming logic is defined as a set of principles that guide how components should be arranged for a computer to perform specific tasks. A computer only operates on the algorithms imputed into it, and programming logic also gives the computer specific instructions for it to perform certain tasks.

When using algorithms in programming logic, a person is presented with several options/data. Then, using critical analysis and logical reasoning, they can choose the best programming/algorithm to perform that task.

A programming language has its specific set of rules and syntax that dictate how words are combined to form a program. To achieve appropriate results, programmers must strictly follow this logic and algorithms. For instance, the if…then statements in coding account for accuracy in a program, i.e., if a user clicks on the SHIFT key, then the computer must execute specific commands.

Kids can master the art of coding and programming logic through offline coding. Programing logic is important in today’s society, as it is an extension of other STEM subjects, including computer science, engineering, data science, math, etc. With enough practice through physical and hands on activities, kids can learn how to think logically in computer programming and to perform real tasks.

11 Best Activities to Teach Coding Without A Screen

Here are the 11 best offline coding activities for your kids to learn how to code.

Instructed Map Route

This is a great unplugged group coding activity for kids. To play this game, you need to mark the beginning and finishing points on the floor, then place obstacles along the path. Next, blindfold a kid’s face and have another kid guide them through the game without falling for the traps/obstacles. The kids can either direct them to go right, left, forward, jump over, etc. This is an interesting group activity that teaches the importance of trust and collaboration.

A Deck Of Cards

This is one of the easiest offline coding games for kids, and it is suitable for kids aged 4 and above. Here, kids will learn the basics of algorithms, sequencing, and debugging. It is super easy and fun for kids to play!

Printable Scratch Books

With up to 60 free printable scratch books, kids can learn all about scratch programming. The printable scratch books include the basics of scratch and block coding, along with step-by-step guides and online tutorials.

Coding Simon Says

Kids can have maximum fun while learning all about computer science, if…when statements, conditions, and logical thinking. In this game, all participants are computers, and whoever plays the role of Simon is the programmer. Before playing this game, teachers must set the ground rules, one of which states that the kid calling the shots must mention “Simon says” at the beginning of every statement.

Outdoor Coding Activity With Chalk And Water Guns

Parents can engage their kids in this super fun outdoor project, with just a chalk and water squirter. It involves two people, where one has to act as the robot, and the other as the programmer. With a little setup, parents can enjoy this activity with their kids, while they learn about robotics and coding. 

Binary Bracelets

Binary bracelets are one of the simplest forms of unplugged coding/ kids can apply their knowledge of binary code to encode their names on their binary bracelets.

Teach A Robot To Stack Cups

Kids can create a series of instructions and methods on how a robot can stack cups. They can challenge one another to create the best methods of how robots should stack cups. This is an interesting coding game that builds teamwork and healthy competition in kids.

Computer Science in a Box

Suitable for kids aged 9 years and above, this offline coding activity teaches kids the fundamentals of computer science, algorithms, logic, variables, and loops, binary, problem solving, etc. these activities will help kids understand how computer functions, as well as how binary numbers can be used as symbols in computer programming.

Robotic Kits

Programming and robotic kits for kids are awesome tools to teach STEM for kids. Arduino kits and Raspberry Pi kits contain several robotic tools, along with how-to guides on how to use them. With the kits, kids can learn programming, robotics, engineering, electronics, and logical thinking.

Hello Ruby

Hello Ruby is a screen free coding activity completely suitable for little kids. It is a coding storybook incorporated with lessons, puzzles, and creative activities. The protagonist of the storybook, Ruby, is a young ambitious girl determined to solve any puzzle. Her character serves as a motivation to other kids who will want to emulate her and solve the puzzles, just like she does.

Hello Ruby explains the concepts of programming, technology, and computers for kids.

If…Then Statements

‘If’ and ‘then’ are two common commands used when coding. For instance, a programmer can state that if a person clicks the enter button, then the cursor should move to the next line. This game can be played anywhere, and kids can customize it however they want. If…then is a necessary term in programming, and kids need to master its techniques before coding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary About Teaching Kids Offline Coding

You don’t need a computer to teach kids  and get them motivated about learning the steps of computer programming. I hope these projects and ideas got you inspired to get away from the computer and teach you all about coding without using a device.

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