ScratchJr
ScratchJr: A free, focused first step into block coding through stories, games, and creative projects. Ranked #39 of 42 in Coding Learning Software by our editors (5.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for very young children creating simple stories.
At a glance
- Editor score5.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forVery young children creating simple stories
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Feedback modeInstant
- Founded2014
- Facts checked23 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free access to graphical programming, stories, games, and collages
- Supports character, background, speech bubble, and sound creation
- Works across iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows configurations
Where it doesn't
- Its scope is intentionally introductory for children approximately ages 5–7
- Project sharing is limited to email and AirDrop on iPad
- Its focus is narrower than a broader coding or integration platform
Our verdict on ScratchJr
ScratchJr is a free introductory programming app for children approximately ages 5–7. Learners snap together graphical blocks to make characters move, jump, dance, and sing, then turn those actions into interactive stories, games, and collages. The project-based format also includes multiple pages, speech bubbles, character creation, background editing, sound recording, and a sample projects library. It is best suited to very young children beginning to explore sequencing, triggers, repetition, motion, and messaging through creative work.
The standout strength is the way coding concepts are tied to visible storytelling. Children can combine trigger, repeat, motion, and messaging blocks with their own characters, backgrounds, recorded sounds, and speech bubbles. That gives the app a focused creative loop: make a scene, program an interaction, and expand it across several project pages. The Free plan includes the core experience, including graphical programming blocks, interactive stories and games, character and background editing, and sound recording. Families and educators looking for a low-cost starting point do not need to choose between separate coding and creative tools.
ScratchJr is deliberately narrow rather than a full development environment. It centers on ScratchJr programming and beginner projects, with sharing by email and AirDrop on iPad. The app is designed for iPad and Android tablets, while availability on macOS and Windows depends on supported hardware or app-container configurations. That platform detail matters for schools and families choosing devices. Pick ScratchJr when the goal is an approachable first introduction built around stories and play. Choose a broader coding product instead when learners need more advanced programming, deeper ecosystem connections, or a path beyond introductory projects.
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ScratchJr pricing
ScratchJr fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Feedback mode | Instant |
| Learning format | Mixed |
| Programming languages | Not verified |
| Project-based learning | Yes |
| Mobile apps | Yes |
| Computer science topics | Yes |
| Deployment | Mobile |
| Platforms | iOS, Android |
| Support | Email, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | scratchjr.org |
| Facts checked | 23 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to ScratchJr
- CodeAI (formerly Code.org)A free, structured web curriculum with classroom tools, labs, and educator support.9.4
- freeCodeCampA completely free, open-source path from coding challenges to full-stack certifications.9.3
- CodecademyA broad coding curriculum with free entry and structured paid paths.9.2
See all ScratchJr alternatives →
Also Ranked In
ScratchJr is ranked in 5 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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