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Coding can be complex, but lets start at the beginning and build on our skills.

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As technology dominates our lives, learning basic computer programming isn't just a smart idea, it's an essential skill for grown-ups and children alike.

Learning how to build simple websites and games helps kids refine their design, logic, and problem-solving abilities. It also allows them to express ideas and creativity in unique ways. There are a number of FREE websites that teach children how to play around with code. We've rounded up a dozen of our favorites.

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Prices are as of December 2017.

Students celebrate completing their coding challenges. Photo courtesy of Code.org.
Kids learn how to program their own games. Photo courtesy of Code Combat
Code.org
This nonprofit foundation website is a great starting point for coding novices. It shares plenty of useful online resources, apps, and even local schools that teach coding. Be sure to watch the inspirational video on the main page. Updated periodically, the current iteration features some of the biggest names in tech talking about how they got started in coding.

Photo courtesy code.org This article first published in September 2013 but is regularly updated. A group of kids work together to create code. Photo courtesy of Tynker
RELATED: 50 Easy Science Experiments Kids Can Do at Home

Lightbot
Predominantly an app-based program, Lightbot offers a FREE demo online as part of its Hour of Code. Like what you see? Its pair of low-cost programming apps are all-ages friendly. Available for iOs, Android, and Amazon devices for $2.99.

Stencyl
Inspired by Scratch's snapping blocks system, this software allows users to create simple games for iOS, Android, Flash, Windows, Linux, and Mac systems. If your child is serious about it, there are paid pro plans that come with advanced functionality.

RELATED: High-Tech Family Fun: 5 Ways Technology Can Be Family Time

Bonus
Looking to teach your kids code on the go? Coding apps Daisy the Dinosaur, Hopscotch, and Kodable are all FREE for iPad.

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Coding for Kids: Free Websites That Teach Kids Programming

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As technology dominates our lives, learning basic computer programming isn't just a smart idea, it's an essential skill for grown-ups and children alike. Learning how to build simple websites and games helps kids refine their design, logic, and problem-solving abilities. It also allows them to express ideas and creativity in unique ways.