Why limit yourself to your small screen on the phone? Run PBS KIDS ScratchJr, an app by PBS KIDS, best experienced on your PC or Mac with BlueStacks, the world’s #1 Android emulator.
This one feels like a colorful toy chest for little coders. Kids drag and drop bright blocks to make characters move, talk, and respond, so the mechanics are very clear and forgiving. The characters from familiar PBS shows show up and that helps spark ideas, but it is the simple block sequencing that actually teaches cause and effect; children can see what each block does and then change things to test ideas. There are paint tools and a way to record voices, so projects can look and sound unique, and a handful of story starters help when someone needs a nudge to begin.
On a PC using BlueStacks the interface stretches out, and using a mouse to snap blocks into place can feel easier than on a tiny tablet screen. It is aimed at early elementary ages, so the challenges are small and friendly rather than complex, but they do encourage planning and problem solving in a hands-on way. The whole thing is relaxed and playful, not rigid learning, and it will appeal to kids who like drawing, making short animations, or tinkering with cause and effect. There may be limits compared with full programming tools, but for little creators this is very approachable and fun.
Eager to take your app experience to the next level? Start right away by downloading BlueStacks on your PC or Mac.
