Coding for Kids
Computing Concepts for Kids Come Alive in These Amazing Animated Courses
Do you want your kids to understand key computing concepts like staying safe online, good online etiquette, and even the basics of computing itself? The internet has become an integral part of our daily lives. As children grow up in a world that is increasingly digital, it is crucial that they are equipped with essential computing concepts for kids so they can navigate this environment safely and responsibly.
Look no further than Tynker’s brand new All About Computers courses. These highly-visual courses take technical subjects and help kids see how things work.
In each episode of All About Computers, kids will go on epic adventures with Puffballs, Super Squad, Professor Ada, Codey, and Dr. Glitch while they learn about computers, networking, and digital literacy. Kids will watch till the end because of the compelling stories. But you will be happy about the learning that’s happening behind the scenes.
These computing concept courses are aligned with age-appropriate standards developed by the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA). In other words, these fun cartoon courses align with these key CS standards used by thousands of schools and educators in the US.
For example, in Tynker’s All About Computers kids will explore:
- Basic computer literacy. Learn basic computer skills like logging in, opening and closing programs, and navigating menus.
- Input and output devices. Discover parts of the computer, like keyboards, mice, touchscreens, and speakers, and how they work together.
- Basic programming concepts. Get familiar with basic coding. Use visual block-based programming languages to implement loops, sequences, and conditional logic.
- Digital citizenship. Learn about responsible behavior online, such as not sharing personal information and being respectful to others.
- Internet safety. Apply key online safety skills crucial to everyone of all ages, such as avoiding scams and strangers online.
- Computational thinking. Apply computational thinking concepts, such as breaking down problems, recognizing patterns, and developing step-by-step solutions.
Tynker’s All About Computers courses make learning about computers accessible, captivating, and entertaining! The courses offer over 70 videos that guarantee children acquire accurate knowledge in an enjoyable way. But don’t be surprised if kids don’t realize they’re learning! Start a conversation with your child using these educational videos as an engaging springboard!
Computing Concepts: Digital Literacy and Online Safety
All About Computers is specifically designed for pre-readers and elementary-grade students who want to learn more about computers and their impact, data, networks, security, and digital literacy. The course provides a solid foundation, which helps students to better understand the rapidly changing digital world.
As the course progresses, students take things further. They learn about computer hardware and software, networks, data and analysis, computational thinking, the internet, cybersecurity, and digital citizenship. The easy-to-follow format, with engaging visuals and interactive activities, promises to motivate students. By the end of the course, students will have a better understanding of how computers and networks work, how to stay safe online, and how to use digital tools responsibly.
Best of all, students will not only develop their skills in digital literacy, but they will explore incredible computing inventions and imagine themselves as technology creators.
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All About Computers Aligns with CSTA Standards—K-2
| Grade | CSTA Standard | Description | Location |
| K-2 | Computing Systems | Students are expected to be able to select and operate appropriate software for different tasks and recognize that users have different needs and preferences. They are also expected to use appropriate terminology in identifying and describing the function of common physical components of computing systems (hardware), and to describe basic hardware and software problems using accurate terminology. | Chapter 1, Chapter 2, All About computers 1 |
| K-2 | Networks and the Internet | Students should be able to model and describe how people connect to other people, places, information, and ideas through a network. They should also understand the importance of using strong passwords to protect devices and information from unauthorized access. | Chapter 6, All About Computers 1 |
| K-2 | Data and Analysis | Students are expected to store, copy, search, retrieve, modify, and delete information using a computing device, and to collect and present data in various visual formats. They should also be able to identify and describe patterns in data visualizations, such as charts or graphs, to make predictions. | Chapter 3, All about Computers 1 |
| K-2 | Algorithms and Programming | Students are expected to model daily processes by creating and following algorithms to complete tasks. They should also understand the importance of giving attribution when using the ideas and creations of others while developing programs. | Chapter 5, All About Computers 1 |
| K-2 | Impacts of Computing | Help students understand how new computing technologies have affected the way people live and work. Students are also expected to work respectfully and responsibly with others when communicating electronically, keep login information private, and log off of devices appropriately. | Chapter 6, Chapter 7, All About Computers 1 |
All About Computers Aligns with CSTA Standards—Grades 3-5
| Grade | CSTA Standard | Description | Location |
| 3-5 | Computing Systems | This will introduce students to the basics of computers and their components. Students learn about the hardware components of a computer, including the monitor, CPU, keyboard, mouse, and printer, as well as software components such as word processing software, email, and internet browsers. The unit also covers troubleshooting strategies for common problems. | Chapter 1, Chapter 3, All About Computers 2 |
| 3-5 | Networks and the Internet | Students will learn about the basics of the internet and how it works. The unit covers topics such as routers, IP addresses, and cloud storage. Students also learn how information is broken down into smaller pieces and transmitted as packets through multiple devices over networks and the internet. | Chapter 4, Chapter 6, All About Computers 2 |
| 3-5 | Data and Analysis | Students will learn how to present information in a clear and visually appealing way. They will learn to use data to show connections between different sets of information and support their arguments. They will also learn how to predict outcomes and identify cause-and-effect relationships using data. This will help them communicate complex ideas effectively and make informed decisions based on the information presented. | Chapter 2, All About Computers 2 |
| 3-5 | Algorithms and Programming | This unit introduces students to the basics of programming and algorithms. Students learn what algorithms are, and how to create their own algorithms. The unit also covers topics such as sequencing puzzles, decomposition, and attribution. | Chapter 5, All About Computers 2 |
| 3-5 | Impacts of Computing | This unit explores the latest technological advancements and how they are impacting our lives. Students learn about topics such as artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, and robotics. The unit also covers the ethical implications of these technological advancements. | Chapter 7, Chapter 6, All About Computers 2 |
Where to Find Them
You’ll find All About Computers 1 is on Tynker Junior, the dedicated iPad app for younger coders.
Both courses (All About Computers 1 and 2) are available on the web version of Tynker also. Login at tynker.com, then from your student dashboard, select EXPLORE and search for All About Computers. These video courses are available for Tynker’s school subscribers, too!
Follow The Story with More Courses
Did you finish all of the videos already? Don’t stop, the adventure continues with coding courses starring your favorite characters.
Install TynkerJr and save the day with Super Squad. Then help the Puffballs collect every sock in Puffball Panic. TynkerJr is part of any paid Tynker plan. If you’re a subscriber, you already have access. Try it today!
What kids learn:
- Basic problem-solving
- Conditional loops and logic
- Coding confidence with simple icon-based code!
Older learners can explore the course called Ada’s Adventure to follow Codey and Professor Ada’s battle against the evil Dr. Glitch. Along the way, you’ll create simple games, storytelling, and art projects with Tynker’s block code. Ada’s Adventure is accessible on Tynker’s iPad app and on the web!
What kids learn:
Don’t sleep on these cool educational videos, available for all Tynker subscribers!
