Jan 21, 2021 By Team MakerVidya *
Coding classes may not be a new phenomenon in India but never have they been as strong a buzzword as today. Indeed, in a year that has seen COVID19 demolish economies across the world, edtech has been among the few sectors that have seen rapid growth. In India with its burgeoning youth, edtech seems to hold an unparalleled potential as evidenced by the rise and expansion of several online coding programs. But what do these coding classes offer, what syllabus do they follow, and what are the actual takeaways for the students? This blog takes a closer look at all this and more.
What is Coding?
What is coding? Coding is another term for computer programming. It is the process by which one can design and create an executable computer program for carrying out a particular computing task. So we can make computer software, apps and websites using coding; ditto for our internet browser, the OS of our computers/ laptops/ phones, Facebook and even this website. A coding language is essentially a vocabulary and set of grammatical rules for telling a computer to perform certain tasks.
Block-based coding vs syntax-based coding
Coding can be block-based or syntax-based. Typically, kids start with the block-based coding and move on to the latter because the former is much simpler and easier to follow. Block-based coding thrives on a drag-and-drop learning environment, where coding instruction ‘blocks’ are used to build animated stories and games. Here kids get introduced to computational thinking through visuals instead of text. For instance, Scratch is a block-based coding language where, say, the motion blocks are used to control the movement of the sprites.
Syntax-based coding is driven by syntax, or the set of rules that define the combinations of symbols considered to be correctly structured statements or expressions in that language. Coding languages such as Python, JavaScript are syntax-based coding languages.
The right age for kids to start coding
Now that we know what coding entails, we can look at the right age for kids to learn it. A lot of confusion prevails with regards to this topic as different websites say different things. One may say kids can start at age 4, and another may say age 7 is a good time to start learning coding. The important thing to keep in mind is that while kids can start with block-based programming, real coding comes with syntax-based programming where one actually writes code and completes tasks by doing so. So while kids as young as 6 and above may start learning Scratch as it is more visually engaging, the critical thinking needed to understand the more complex syntax-based programming languages typically develops among kids at the age of 10-11.
Which are the leading online coding classes for kids in India?
Codingal
Codingal offers structured coding courses for students from Grades 1 to 12. The curriculum includes Scratch, Python, web development, app development, AI, and game design. Students can participate in coding competitions and build portfolios along the way.
Best for: Beginners who want a structured online curriculum.
Codeyoung
Codeyoung focuses on live online classes with personalized instruction. Younger learners begin with Scratch, while older students progress to Python, web development, and app development.
Best for: Students looking for one-on-one guidance.
Tynker
Tynker is a popular platform that introduces coding through game-based learning and visual programming. It is widely used in schools across India and internationally, and offers a gradual progression from block-based coding to Python and JavaScript for older learners.
Best for: Younger students who learn best through games and interactive puzzles.
Codevidhya
Codevidhya emphasizes Python, web development, and app creation through live classes. The platform offers project-based learning and flexible schedules.
Best for: Students interested in transitioning from beginner to intermediate programming.
Camp K12
Camp K12 provides courses covering coding, AI, game development, AR/VR (augmented reality and virtual reality), and entrepreneurship. Students can also explore advanced technologies such as machine learning.
Best for: Children interested in emerging technologies.
BrightCHAMPS
BrightCHAMPS has expanded beyond coding to include financial literacy, robotics, AI, and communication skills. Coding remains one of its core offerings.
Best for: Parents looking for a broad technology learning platform.
WhiteHat Jr.
WhiteHat Jr. continues to offer coding courses for school students with an emphasis on live instruction and project-based learning. Its curriculum includes coding fundamentals, app development, and advanced programming concepts.
Best for: Students who prefer structured live classes.
MakerVidya
MakerVidya takes a different approach by focusing on building real products instead of simply completing coding exercises. Designed primarily for students aged 11 and above, the program follows a self-paced learning model across five structured levels, beginning with Python fundamentals and progressing through applied Python, Raspberry Pi (a small, affordable computer used for hands-on electronics and coding projects), robotics, databases, full stack web development, machine learning, and AI.
Rather than relying on block-based programming, MakerVidya introduces students to text-based coding and real syntax from the start. The program is built to the same conceptual depth as a college-level computer science course, and students complete independent projects rather than following guided walkthroughs. That means working inside industry-standard coding environments, managing file systems, and applying concepts to problems they haven't seen before.
The curriculum also introduces students to SQL (a language used to store and retrieve data from databases), which is a foundational skill for anyone going into data, software engineering, or AI. As students advance, they work with concepts relevant to generative AI and large language models, reflecting where the industry is actually headed.
Classes are offered in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, and Bengali. Students can choose private one-on-one sessions or small group classes, with weekly subscription pricing and no long-term commitment required.
Best for: Students serious about learning Python, robotics, AI, and real-world software development.
Final thoughts
There is no single coding platform that is perfect for every child. Some programs focus on making coding fun through games and animations, while others prepare students for advanced programming and technology careers.
If your goal is simply to introduce coding, beginner-friendly platforms using Scratch may be enough. However, if your child wants to build real applications, robots, or AI projects, choosing a curriculum centered around Python and hands-on development provides a stronger long-term foundation.
According to a NASSCOM industry survey, 65% of Indian tech firms now prioritise demonstrated skills over formal qualifications for entry-level hiring. What that means for a student starting today: a portfolio of real projects built during school years carries more weight than a certificate from a platform that walked them through every step. What separates good coding education from great coding education isn't the platform's name or the number of badges it hands out. It's whether your child finishes with something real to show for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which coding language should kids learn first?
Scratch is an excellent introduction for younger learners, while Python is one of the best first programming languages for older children because of its simple syntax and real-world applications. Python is also the dominant language in AI, data science, and machine learning, and it underpins most generative AI tools including ChatGPT, making it a strong long-term investment regardless of which direction a student eventually goes.
Is coding useful even if my child doesn't become a software engineer?
Yes. Coding develops logical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills that are valuable across many careers. As AI tools become more embedded in every industry, understanding how software works gives students an edge regardless of which field they enter.
Are online coding classes effective?
Yes, provided they include live instruction, hands-on projects, regular feedback, and opportunities to apply concepts independently. Platforms that rely heavily on pre-recorded videos or guided walkthroughs rarely produce students who can write code on their own.
How is MakerVidya different from other coding platforms?
MakerVidya teaches to the same conceptual depth as a college-level computer science program. Students work through five structured levels, completing independent projects in Python, Raspberry Pi, robotics, SQL, full stack web development, and AI. Classes are available in multiple Indian languages, offered in small groups or one-on-one, and priced on a flexible weekly subscription with no long-term commitment required.
*Contributors: Written by Vidya Prabhu; image by Leonel Cruz
