Scratch is a fun, easy-to-use platform where you can create your own games, animations, and stories using blocks that snap together like LEGO! Instead of writing code, you use colorful blocks to give instructions to characters (called sprites) and make them move, talk, and do all sorts of cool things. It’s like telling a digital story where you control everything! Whether you want to create a simple animation or an exciting game, Scratch makes learning to code a fun adventure for kids of all ages. Let your imagination run wild and see what you can build!
Scratch Website and Desktop Application
Scratch is available in two ways: through the Scratch website and the Scratch desktop application. Both let you create projects, but each has some differences.
Scratch Website
The Scratch website is where you can create, save, and share your projects online. You can access it from any device with the internet, like a laptop or tablet. On the website, you can:
- Create new projects using blocks to control sprites.
- Save your work online, so you can open your projects from any device.
- Share your projects with other Scratchers and explore projects made by others.
- Join the Scratch community, where you can comment, remix, and collaborate on projects.
Visit the Scratch website here: Scratch Website
Scratch Desktop Application
The Scratch desktop app lets you create projects without needing an internet connection. It works the same way as the website but you save your projects on your own computer. This is perfect if you want to work on a project while offline, like during travel or when you don’t have Wi-Fi. However, the desktop app doesn’t have direct access to the online Scratch community, so you’ll need to open the website if you want to upload or share your projects.
Download the desktop app here: Scratch Desktop
Both versions are fun and easy to use, so you can choose the one that works best for you! Happy Scratch coding!
Exploring the Scratch Environment and Tools
When you open Scratch, you step into a colorful, friendly space where you can bring your ideas to life! Let’s take a tour of the Scratch environment and explore the tools that make coding fun.
1. The Stage Area
- What it is: This is where the action happens! The stage is the big white area on the right where your characters (sprites) move, talk, and perform. Think of it like the screen of a movie or game!
- What you can do: Watch your project come to life here. You can change the background of the stage to different settings, like a jungle, city, or space!
2. Sprites
- What it is: Sprites are your characters or objects. They can be animals, people, or anything you want!
- What you can do: You can pick a sprite from the library, draw your own, or upload an image. You can have as many sprites as you like and make them interact with each other!
3. Blocks Palette
- What it is: This is the toolbox that contains all the coding blocks. It’s on the left side of the screen.
- What you can do: Blocks are grouped by colors:
- Blue for motion (moving, turning)
- Purple for looks (changing how sprites look or talk)
- Pink for sounds (adding music or sound effects)
- Yellow for events (starting your code when something happens, like clicking a sprite)
- There are even more blocks for sensing, control, and math!
- How to use it: Just drag the blocks from the palette to the coding area and snap them together to create a program!
4. Script Area
- What it is: This is where you build your code. It’s the blank space in the middle where you put blocks together to give instructions to your sprites.
- What you can do: Drag blocks into the coding area to create sequences (called scripts). This tells your sprites what to do—whether it’s moving, talking, or playing sounds.
5. Backdrop & Sprite Options
- What it is: Below the stage, you can choose a backdrop for your stage (like the background of your project) or add new sprites.
- What you can do: Change the setting of your game or story with cool backgrounds, or switch out your sprites anytime!
6. Green Flag and Red Stop Sign
- What it is: The Green Flag is like the start button. It runs your project, so you can see everything in action. The Red Stop Sign is the stop button, used to end your project.
- What you can do: Click the green flag to start the fun! If you want to stop or pause your project, click the red stop sign.
7. Toolbar
- What it is: This bar is at the very top and has useful tools like saving your project, undo/redo buttons, and tips if you get stuck.
- What you can do: Save your progress, explore tutorials, and learn new tricks by clicking the “Tips” button!
Sprite Info Panel in Scratch
The Sprite Info Panel in Scratch is like a control center for your sprite. It shows important details about the sprite you’re working with and lets you easily change things like its size and position. You’ll find this panel just below the stage on the right side of the screen. Let’s explore what each part of the Sprite Info Panel does!
1. Sprite Thumbnail
- What it is: A small picture of the sprite you’re working on.
- What you can do: Click on this thumbnail to select or switch between different sprites. This is where you see a mini version of your sprite.
2. Sprite Name
- What it is: The name of your sprite.
- What you can do: You can change the name of your sprite here. For example, if your sprite is a cat, you can rename it “Tom” to keep track of different sprites in your project.
3. X and Y Position
- What it is: The X and Y values show where your sprite is on the stage.
- X controls the position from left to right.
- Y controls the position from top to bottom.
- What you can do: You can manually type in numbers to move your sprite to a specific spot on the stage. This is super useful if you want your sprite to start at a certain location.
4. Direction
- What it is: This shows the direction your sprite is facing, using degrees (0 is up, 90 is right, -90 is left, and 180 is down).
- What you can do: You can set the direction your sprite faces by typing in a number or using a slider. For example, if you want your sprite to face left, set the direction to -90.
5. Rotation Style
- What it is: This option lets you control how your sprite can rotate.
- What you can do: There are three options:
- All Around: Your sprite can spin in any direction.
- Left-Right: Your sprite can only face left or right.
- Don’t Rotate: Your sprite stays facing the same way, no matter what.
6. Show / Hide Button
- What it is: A small checkbox that lets you make your sprite appear or disappear from the stage.
- What you can do: Check or uncheck this box to show or hide your sprite. This is useful if you want your sprite to disappear and reappear in your project!
7. Size
- What it is: This shows how big or small your sprite is, as a percentage.
- What you can do: You can type in a number to change the size of your sprite. For example, typing “50” makes the sprite half as big, and typing “200” makes it twice as big.
Understanding the Three Tabs in Scratch: Code, Costumes, and Sounds
When you’re creating projects in Scratch, you’ll notice three important tabs at the top of your workspace: Code, Costumes, and Sounds. Each tab has a special role in making your sprite come to life. Let’s explore what each one does!
1. Code Tab
What it is: The Code tab is where you create instructions (called scripts) to control your sprite.
What you can do: This is where you drag and snap coding blocks together to make your sprite move, talk, or interact with other sprites. You can add blocks to make your sprite dance, change colors, or respond when you click the green flag.
Think of it like: The brain of your project—it’s where all the action starts!
2. Costumes Tab
What it is: The Costumes tab is where you can change how your sprite looks.
What you can do: You can draw or edit different costumes for your sprite, like changing its color, adding cool details, or switching outfits. If your sprite is a character, you could even make different costumes to show them in different poses.
Think of it like: Your sprite’s wardrobe and makeup room—you get to decide how it looks!
3. Sounds Tab
What it is: The Sounds tab is where you can add and edit sounds for your project.
What you can do: Choose fun sounds from the Scratch library or record your own! You can add sound effects, background music, or voices to your sprites. You can also edit the sounds to make them faster, slower, or even funnier!
Think of it like: The music and sound studio for your project—where you make your sprite sing, talk, or play music.
FAQs on Scratch Programming for Kids
Which age is suitable for kids to start learning Scratch?
Scratch is designed for kids aged 7 and up. It's playful, intuitive, and doesn’t require typing, making it perfect for younger learners.
Do I need to install anything for my child to start?
No. Scratch runs directly in your web browser. Your child just needs a device (laptop or tablet) with internet access to get started.
Do I need a coding background to support my child?
No prior coding knowledge is needed. Our instructors guide kids step-by-step. As a parent, your encouragement and interest are more than enough!
How will the course be conducted?
Our Scratch course is taught through live online sessions with experienced instructors. Each session includes demonstrations, hands-on practice, and project building.
What will my child be able to do by the end of the course?
Your child will be able to create their own interactive stories, animations, and games. They'll also develop important skills like logical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
How is Scratch different from just playing computer games?
Instead of just playing, your child will learn to build their own games—turning them from consumers to creators in the digital world.
Is it safe for kids to use Scratch online?
Yes. Scratch is built with child safety in mind. It does not require personal information to use and has strong community moderation in place.
Will learning Scratch help with school subjects?
Yes. Scratch strengthens skills in math (patterns, logic), reading (instructions, sequencing), and science (experimentation and debugging) in a fun, interactive way.
How can I track my child’s progress?
We provide regular updates, project showcases, and feedback from instructors so you can see what your child is learning and creating.
Who developed Scratch? Is it free to use?
Scratch was developed by the MIT Media Lab to help kids learn to code in a fun and easy way. Yes, it’s completely free to use—there are no subscriptions, ads, or hidden charges. Your child can start creating right away!
Can my child use Scratch on an iPad/Tablet?
Yes, Scratch works on iPads and tablets using a web browser. However, for the best experience—especially when playing or building games that use arrow keys or typing—we recommend using a laptop or desktop with a keyboard. It makes coding and gameplay much smoother.
Can Scratch be used offline?
Yes, Scratch offers an offline editor that you can download and install on your computer. It lets your child create and save projects without internet access.
Congratulations! You’ve taken your first step into the world of Scratch! Now that you know your way around the Scratch environment and its tools, you’re ready to start creating your own projects. From coding stories to building games, the possibilities are endless!
If you’re curious about what each Scratch block does, head over to our Block Categories where we explore the different block categories, their shapes, and colors — all explained in a fun and kid-friendly way!