Choosing Between Coding and LEGO Summer Camps for Kids 

Summer camps have an extraordinary benefit for kids. We’ve talked about this a lot in other blog posts, like 7 Reasons Summer Camps are Good for Kids and 5 Benefits of STEM Summer Camps. From the educational benefits to the relationships that are built, Summer camps are wonderful for kids. 

At KidzToPros, we like to provide programs for kids to build real-world skills that can equip them for the 21st century. This is why our Coding and LEGO Robotics courses are so popular! 

In Coding and LEGO Robotics camps, kids learn new skills, make friends, and develop important social and cognitive skills. Here’s the hard part: how do you choose? We’re going to take a look at the benefits of Scratch coding and LEGO Robotics to help you decide which Summer Camp is the right fit for your child. 

KidzToPros Coding Summer Camp

At KidzToPros, we use two different coding platforms for our classes: Scratch and Python. 

Scratch & ScratchJr. 

Scratch is an innovative, kid-friendly coding language with a user-friendly visual interface. This program is perfect for first-time coders as it uses a drag-and-drop builder that enables students to click together color-coded blocks of commands to create a step-by-step sequence of events. 

In simple terms, students create a visual and easy-to-understand snippet of code. Scratch lays a foundation for children to learn other programming languages by introducing universal concepts like sequencing, branching, looping, and variables.  

The Scratch Foundation’s, a non-profit organization, mission is to make sure that everyone, no matter their background or location, has access to Scratch and ScratchJr. Scratch fosters computational thinking and problem-solving skills, creativity, collaboration, and equity in computing.

At KidzToPros, we offer courses designed for ages 4 – 11 that focus on different aspects of Scratch coding, from basic game creation to more advanced storytelling and adventure building. 

Python

Python is a programming language that is easy to read and understand, thanks to its natural language-like syntax. Python offers users an arsenal of tools to craft a wide range of programs without being restricted to any particular field. It is highly versatile and can be used for tasks ranging from web development to machine learning. Its beginner-friendly nature has made it a popular choice for entry-level coders. 

Python’s extensive archive of modules and libraries has been created by third-party users to extend its capabilities, making it a growing resource. Plus, its large and active community of programmers offers a wealth of support to solve any coding problems that may arise. 

Thanks to its beginner-friendly interface and versatility, Python is highly favored by programmers worldwide, making it one of the most popular languages today! Because Python is more sophisticated, KidzToPros utilizes this programming interface for kids ages 10-14.  

Fun fact: Python was named after the iconic British comedy group Monty Python.

Coding Camp Benefits

KidzToPros Coding Camps encourage your child to think outside of the box and work collaboratively with their peers to create unique and engaging coding projects. Your child will leave with a solid foundation in computer programming and the skills needed to take their projects to the next level.

By the end of the course, they’ll have developed the skills to create a range of computer-based projects, including artistic, musical, and gaming programs, as well as learn how to animate and manipulate sprites. 

Our highly experienced instructors are there to guide them every step of the way, while also encouraging them to unleash their imaginations and let their creativity run free. 

LEGO Camp Benefits

LEGO has been a staple in kids’ enrichment for decades. LEGO Robotics is all about constructing robots and vehicles, and then programming them to do all sorts of cool things. These projects come in the form of kits that offer a variety of blocks and building pieces to combine with your existing LEGO sets. These kits also include motors, sensors, and easy-to-follow instructions for building a range of impressive robots.

Kids participating in this program get to build and program their own robots that can move and even talk. As they work in teams, they learn valuable skills such as collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. Plus, they understand that every member has a crucial role to play, whether it be achieving success in their projects or building strong relationships with family and friends. 

KidzToPros LEGO Robotics Camp

At KidzToPros, we offer LEGO Robotics Camps for kids ages 4-14. With the help of LEGO elements, a programmable brick, motors, and sensors, kids can bring their creations to life by making them walk, talk, grab, shoot, and do almost anything their imagination can conjure up. 

Our students will embark on a journey of building amazing things such as a humanoid robot, a shooting scorpion, a slithering snake, a forklift, a race truck, an electric guitar, a walking dinosaur, and many more!

Through this course, students will not only invent LEGO robots, but they will also problem-solve and work in teams to meet specific needs. In the second level, students will dive deeper into sensors and motors, sharpening their problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. By the end of this course, students will be equipped with the confidence to complete robotics challenges independently. 

How To Choose?

While coding and LEGO camps share some common benefits and offer unique learning experiences, their approaches to learning are vastly different. While both camps offer interactive and challenging experiences, there are significant differences between them. 

LEGO Robotics camps involve building and programming robotic LEGO creations. It is a perfect way for children to learn about engineering, coding, and robotics in an engaging and exciting setting. KidzToPros offers LEGO Robotics courses for second-to-eighth grades!

On the other hand, coding summer camps focus solely on programming using various languages and software. Children learn to write code and develop websites, games, and apps, learning computer science concepts along the way. 

KidzToPros offers a variety of Scratch and Python coding Summer Camp courses.

• Scratch Game Design 1: Classic Games
• Scratch Game Design 2: Adventures
• Scratch Game Design 3: Sports
• Python: Programming & Game Design

Whatever your child’s interests, both LEGO Robotics and coding summer camps can provide an incredible opportunity to explore the exciting world of technology. Check out our website for the nearest LEGO Robotics or Coding Summer Camp near you!