Monday, August 23, 2021

Code Rocket Review {Coding for Kids}

I have something to share with you today from Timberdoodle, Code Rocket!  Code Rocket is geared for kids 8-12 and helps them learn C++ computer coding skills with fun hands-on activities to complete.  Students will use coding to control the rocket's LED lights, speaker, buttons, etc.

 
 
What's included?  Our set comes with the code rocket itself (and stand), USB cable, and coding help cards.
 
 
Code Rocket's free software requires Windows, Mac or a Chromebook computer to work.  Our kids have been using Windows on a Nextbook for our Code Rocket.  The set-up was simple and it's working great.

D with our Code Rocket

Code Rocket gives your child the opportunity to experience hands-on coding without having to build a circuit.  There are 20 student-friendly projects that help teach your child C++ coding.  Kids will see how computer programming controls the rocket and they will get immediate feedback with the rocket's lights, buttons, speaker, etc.  Your student will have access to online videos that will help them see how the code and concepts work.  I love this!

 
Get started by visiting Let's Start Coding .com

How does it work?  Well, each project starts with your student uploading a functioning program to their rocket.  Then, they tinker with the code to see what each line controls.  After watching the video explanation, your student will be ready to complete a challenge (that improves or changes their starting code).  Students will also complete a mini quiz and then be ready to tackle the project's final test - a bug hunt!  There, they will find and correct the bug planted within the code.  It's so fun!

 
D tinkering with her code.
 

 Code Rocket with lights.

Code Rocket with all the lights.

Code Rocket is currently included in Timberdoodle's 5th grade curriculum kit.  I love that students can jump into Code Rocket without any experience.  This is such a great resource and it just might release the inner coder in your child.  I'm looking forward to D (and E) completing all the projects this school year.

 
Disclosure:  Huge shout out to Timberdoodle for selecting me as a Timberdoodle Blogger.  I received Code Rocket in exchange for my honest review.  All opinions are my own.

2 comments:

Karla Cook said...

Great review! I love the pics of the rocket lit up. Thanks for sharing!

Kathryn said...

No problem! I love seeing D get more and more excited about coding as she works through the projects :)