Scratch Jr Projects for After-School Programs

Are you an after-school program looking for engaging and fun activities to keep your young learners coding? Look no further! In this blog post, we'll explore some creative Scratch Jr projects that are perfect for kids aged 4-8. Whether you're a teacher, caregiver, or parent, these ideas will inspire you to bring coding to the next level.

Getting Started with Scratch Jr

Before diving into specific projects, let's quickly go over how to get started with Scratch Jr. First, download and install the app on your tablet or device. Then, create an account and log in to access the project library. Start with one of their pre-made examples to understand the basics. You can even modify these examples to fit your program's theme!

Color Mixer Project

This fun project allows kids to experiment with color mixing! Using Scratch Jr's color tools, have them design a virtual paint palette and then combine different colors to create unique shades. Encourage them to explore primary and secondary colors, as well as their resulting hues. This project is perfect for developing problem-solving skills and introducing basic art concepts.

Animated Storytelling

Bring stories to life with Scratch Jr's built-in animation tools! Have your young coders design a simple story, adding characters, backgrounds, and dialogue. Then, use the " Costume" block to change characters' appearances or add props like hats and accessories. This project encourages creativity and self-expression while introducing basic storytelling techniques.

Sound and Music Exploration

Let's make some music with Scratch Jr! In this project, kids can experiment with sound effects and instruments to create their own compositions. Use the "Instrument" block to play different sounds, such as drums or piano notes. Add some effects like echo or reverb to create an atmospheric vibe. This activity fosters creativity, musical understanding, and fine-tunes spatial reasoning.