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"With programs like the Hour of Code and other sites, it looks like many children have been exposed to computer programming, but we feel that we still have a long way to go. Graduates with programming skills are in high demand, and it's clear those numbers will only increase. In addition, the skills acquired through programming, like logical thinking, problem solving, persistence, collaboration, and communication, can be applied to any grade level, any subject area, and in every part of life. Programming isn't just limited to computer science majors in college. Like we said a year ago, kids can code -- we have the sites and resources to make it happen. And it's never been more important to provide students with opportunities to be exposed to programming, especially girls and minorities. In the interest of space, we've limited our list to resources for coding with elementary students (ages 5-11), and best of all, free resources!"

"Introducing computer programming to your kids can be a challenge, especially for those who aren't familiar with the nuances of code. Fortunately, in the last few years, a number of apps, software, and guides have been produced that make the often-complex subject of computer coding easy to grasp for young learners. So where to begin? These are a few resources parents can share with their kids to help them start learning about programming."

"But the earlier we introduce children to coding, the more comfortable they will be when presented with more in-depth learning opportunities in middle and high school. Also, early exposure to coding helps teach children how important it is to understand computers as the valuable tools they are rather than merely fun playthings."

"Computers intersect with every aspect of kids' lives, but most kids don't understand how they work. Through coding, students build essential literacy skills, gain an understanding of logic and sequence, and learn the mechanics of iteration. These tools support project-based learning and give students the freedom to create, collaborate, hack, remix, and tinker with their own unique designs. Using these picks, kids can unlock the logic of code and the basics of programming, turning computers into tools to make new things."

Coding isn't just for computer science any more. Educators are finding that teaching students to write code and design games enhances learning and creates engagement. These examples illustrate how coding and games are being used across the curriculum and at all levels, as well as why great teaching is at the very heart of this innovation.

"Code.org has developed a free elementary school curriculum that allows even the youngest students to explore the limitless world of computing. The courses blend online, self-guided and self-paced tutorials with "unplugged"activities that require no computer at all. Each course consists of about 20 lessons that may be implemented as one unit or over the course of a semester. Even kindergarten-aged pre-readers can participate."

Online coding platform that will allow you to connect to multiple devices (Sphero, Parrot Drone, etc) and connect them in programs. When devices are connected, coding blocks are added that are specific to those devices! Very cool!

"The puzzles and creative activities are designed to teach students computational thinking and the basics of computer programming. Students solve each puzzle by programming visual code blocks to achieve a goal."

"Learn to code interactively, for free. People all over the world are learning with Codecademy."

"Get more students Coding! Powerful visual language tools, Intuitive drag & drop UI designer, step by step instructional AppKITs guide students app development and personalize learning."

As with other aspects of tech use in early childhood, deep discussions are underway about the appropriate role coding has in young children's classrooms-and in the library. Sometimes referred to as the "new literacy" in schools, teaching coding means teaching children the language used to operate tablets, computers, and other devices they interact with every day.

Poland's education system has always been strong on hard science and computing, but looming skills deficits are calling for an even more radical approach. While a Samsung-sponsored initiative has been aiming to bring skills in coding projects to even the youngest pupils since 2013, next year the country is planning to test a new primary- and secondary-school curriculum that focuses on software development.

Apparently Code.org's successful 'Hour of Code' event in December was just a warm-up act. The Seattle-based nonprofit on Thursday is announcing the rollout of its computer-science education programs at 30 school districts around the country. Altogether they'll reach more than 2 million students - nearly 5 percent of all K-12 students in the country - starting this fall.

20 hour courses for Elementary students

"Every student in every school should have the opportunity to learn computer science"

"The open source, volunteer led, global movement of free coding clubs for young people"