ScratchJr: A Fun Introduction to Coding for Young Children (Ages 5-7)
ScratchJr is a visual programming language designed to empower young children (ages 5 and up) to create interactive stories and games. Kids use colorful, block-based programming to bring characters to life, making them move, jump, dance, and sing. They can even personalize their creations by adding photos, sounds, and their own voices in the built-in paint editor.
Inspired by the popular Scratch programming language, ScratchJr simplifies the interface and programming concepts to be developmentally appropriate for younger learners. The features are carefully designed to support young children's cognitive, personal, social, and emotional growth.
We believe coding is a crucial 21st-century skill, similar to reading and writing. It helps children organize their thoughts and express their ideas creatively. ScratchJr makes coding accessible to everyone, fostering self-expression and problem-solving skills.
Through coding with ScratchJr, children learn to create with technology, not just interact with it. They develop essential sequencing skills crucial for academic success, and they apply math and language skills in engaging ways, boosting early numeracy and literacy. With ScratchJr, children learn by coding, and they code to learn.
ScratchJr is a collaborative project involving Tufts University, the MIT Media Lab, and the Playful Invention Company. Two Sigma contributed to the Android version. The app's engaging graphics and illustrations were created by HvingtQuatre Company and Sarah Thomson.
This free app is available for tablets 7 inches or larger, running Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) or higher. If you appreciate the app, please consider donating to the Scratch Foundation to support its continued development.
Version 1.5.11 (Updated November 28, 2023): This update includes minor bug fixes and improvements. Download the latest version for the best experience!
Terms of Use: http://www.scratchjr.org/eula.html
