Children's Coding Booklist
Updated: Sep 24
Coding is a brilliant way for children to explore how the technology around them works, while developing creativity, logical thinking and problem-solving skills. From understanding simple algorithms to creating their own games and programs, there are plenty of ways to introduce coding from an early age.
For Early Years Readers (ages 3-5)
Unplugged Tots
by Hannah Hagon
We love this screen-free introduction to coding. Simple play-based activities develop sequencing, logic, problem-solving and computational thinking before children ever need to sit at a computer.
Unplugged Tots
by Ruth Spiro
This clever little board book explains what makes a robot work using wonderfully simple language and illustrations. A lovely first introduction to robotics for very young children.
For KS1 Readers (aged 5-8)
Coding Online (Computer Kids)
by Clive Gifford
An excellent first coding book covering programs, blocks, variables, loops and debugging. We particularly like the simple activities that let children put each new idea into practice.
A Kids Book About Technology
by Amber Case
This is less about learning to code and more about understanding our relationship with technology. Thought-provoking, accessible and a great starting point for conversations at home.
See Inside Artificial Intelligence
by Alex Frith and Victoria Williams
The lift-the-flap format makes AI brilliantly accessible. It answers the questions children actually ask about intelligent machines while also exploring what AI can - and can’t - do.
For KS2 Readers (ages 8-12)
Pixels and Coding
by Jeannie Moulton
An engaging introduction to what happens inside computers, from pixels to algorithms and coding. We like that children are learning computer science while also developing their reading
Understanding AI
by Rachel Firth and Rose Hall
Our pick for older KS2 readers. It goes beyond explaining AI to explore how machines learn, what they can do and the fascinating questions AI raises for our future.
