For kids aged 5-7, ScratchJr offers a fun and engaging way to dive into the world of programming. By dragging and connecting colorful blocks, young children can create programs that make characters move, jump, dance, and sing. With ScratchJr, kids can unleash their creativity by customizing characters using the paint editor, adding their own voices and sounds, and even inserting personal photos. Then, using the intuitive programming blocks, they bring their characters to life, crafting interactive stories and games.

ScratchJr draws inspiration from the renowned Scratch programming language (http://scratch.mit.edu), which is used by millions of older kids (ages 8 and up) worldwide. However, ScratchJr has been specifically designed to be developmentally appropriate for younger children. The interface and programming language have been carefully tailored to suit the cognitive, personal, social, and emotional development of young learners.

We believe that coding, or computer programming, is a new form of literacy essential for everyone, just like writing. Coding helps children organize their thoughts and express their ideas. While it was once considered too complex for the average person, we're changing that narrative by making coding accessible to all.

As young children engage with ScratchJr, they don't just use the computer; they learn to create and express themselves through it. This process fosters problem-solving skills, project design, and sequencing abilities, which are crucial for future academic success. Additionally, ScratchJr integrates math and language in a meaningful context, enhancing early numeracy and literacy skills. With ScratchJr, kids are not only learning to code; they're coding to learn.

ScratchJr is a collaborative effort between the Developmental Technologies group at Tufts University, the Lifelong Kindergarten group at the MIT Media Lab, and the Playful Invention Company. The Android version was implemented by Two Sigma, and the vibrant graphics and illustrations were crafted by HvingtQuatre Company and Sarah Thomson.

If you enjoy using this free app, consider supporting the Scratch Foundation (http://www.scratchfoundation.org), a nonprofit organization that sustains ScratchJr. Donations of all sizes are appreciated.

This version of ScratchJr is designed for tablets that are 7 inches or larger and run on Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) or higher.

For more details, please review our Terms of Use at http://www.scratchjr.org/eula.html.

What's New in the Latest Version 1.5.11

Last updated on Nov 28, 2023

The latest update includes minor bug fixes and improvements. Install or update to the newest version to experience the enhancements!