Parents Learning Scratch

Many parents have told me that their children are interested in programming, but they aren't able to help their children because they don't know how to program.  Scratch is an easy to learn first programming language for parents and children.  

Teaching/Learning Scratch is very individualized.  You can get started right now by following the steps below.

There was a free online course (offered through MIT and Google) earlier in the summer: https://creative-computing.appspot.com/preview  The materials, videos, assignments and links are still available, but I don't know for how long.  Create a login and work through the program (skipping the "reflection" components).  

There are lesson plans on this site specifically for children, but they are a great way to learn more about Scratch and learn what your child is learning.  

Use Scratch.mit.edu as a resource.  You can find one of my first projects at http://scratch.mit.edu/projects/10619669/ and that will allow you to easily follow me.  I will then add you back so I can see your new projects and give you feedback.  You can also share them with me via G+ with the #CCOW or #Scratch.  There is a whole community out there willing to help and assist.

Check out http://scratched.media.mit.edu/.  They have tons of project ideas, lessons and message boards for extra support.

For a great downloadable comic book/text book go to Super Scratch Programming Adventure!  In Super Scratch Programming Adventure!, kids learn programming fundamentals as they make their very own playable video games. They'll create projects inspired by classic arcade games that can be programmed (and played!) in an afternoon. The book's patient, step-by-step explanations of the code and fun programming challenges will have kids creating their own games in no time.