Family and Homeschool Activities for Teaching About Computer Programming

These family and homeschool activities are designed to complement the BrainPOP Jr.  Computer Programming topic page, which includes a movie, quizzes, online games, printable activities, and more.

Map a Route

Create a route in your home. Mark the starting and ending points on the floor. Then set a few obstacles in between those two points. Have your child close his or her eyes and follow your verbal instructions, such as take six steps forward, turn right, take three more steps, etc. After, have your child create a route and now you close your eyes as he or she gives the oral instructions.

Write an Algorithm

Challenge your child to write his or her own algorithms. They can write one for a simple task, like planting a seed or tying shoelaces or something more complicated, like writing a recipe or solving a math problem. Remind your child to be as specific as possible. Then follow your child’s algorithm. If there’s an error or if the instructions are unclear, have your child debug it and clarify the steps.

For more information, review Computer Programming Background Information.