Scratch and Scratch JR

Honest Review

Scratch and Scratch, Jr. are an intuitive way for kids to learn how to code.  Using simple action blocks and trial and error, kids learn that the way the blocks are arranged and customized determines what their animation will look like in the end.

How Intuitive are Scratch and Scratch JR?

Kids today click, swipe, hover, and drag-and-drop. They've learnt to "play" until they figure things out. How accessible and intuitive are these kid-friendly coding platforms? Let's examine three areas.

Project Creation Board

Once a kid enters Create mode, the magic happens on the project creation board or stage. A clean, effervescent appearance, little text, and colorful icons invite users to dive in.

Project Creation Board

In regular Scratch, the stage is divided into three main regions that are fairly self-explanatory: Left Side, Middle and Right Side/

Using Action Blocks

The action blocks or icons are how the magic happens.  The creators of Scratch and Scratch, Jr. have thought of everything:  motion, sound, communication, and personalization.

Using Action Blocks

Action blocks are simple. Graphics show what a block will do. A "+" implies to add. Image icons show display or backdrop settings. Arrows show motion.

Running the Program

Action blocks are simple. Graphics show what a block will do. A "+" implies to add. Image icons show display or backdrop settings. Arrows show motion.

Running the Program

While kids may not fully understand coding, they'll notice that setting up action blocks in this way gives their figure life. These characters will follow the blocks' commands till the end.

Overall, Scratch and Scratch, Jr. are easy-to-use coding programs for kids. The programs are intuitive for individuals who aren't frightened to click and observe what happens.

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