From Player to Game Maker: The Top Coding Languages for Kids Who Want to Build Games
Everything Parents Need to Know to Help Their Kids Start Creating
Does your child love Minecraft, Roblox, or Among Us? If they’ve ever said, “I want to make a game like that!” — you're not alone. More and more kids are dreaming of becoming game developers, and the good news is: it's absolutely possible to get them started now.
In the United States, the video game industry generated $101 billion in annual economic output in 2024, supporting nearly 350,000 jobs
Given these trends, it's an exciting time for aspiring game developers and it’s never too soon to start learning. If your child is interested in learning to code and create games, weekly online coding classes with Coco Coders offer engaging, step-by-step lessons to help kids age 6-12 years turn their ideas into reality.
A big question parents often ask is:
"What coding language should my child start with?"
Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can help your child choose the perfect path into the world of game development.
Scratch
Great for: Beginners or kids who prefer a visual way to learn (Here at Coco Coders our younger students start learning with Scratch)
Scratch is like building with Lego blocks — but for code. Instead of typing, kids snap together colorful blocks that tell the computer what to do. It’s the perfect way to learn how to think like a coder without worrying about spelling or tricky symbols.
🎮 Kids can create fun 2D games, animations, and interactive stories — all from their imagination.
💡 Parent Tip: Scratch is ideal for building confidence. It’s used in schools around the world and has a huge online community where kids can share and explore projects.
Python
Great for: Kids who are ready to try typing real code
Python uses simple, easy-to-understand words, making it one of the most beginner-friendly programming languages. It’s great for learning basic game logic and building fun projects like mazes, quizzes, and simple platformers.
🎮 Perfect for text-based adventures, pong-style games, and more.
💡 Parent Tip: Python is also used by scientists, developers, and engineers, so the skills kids learn now can carry into future careers.
Lua with Roblox
Great for: Kids who love playing and creating in Roblox
Roblox Studio is a powerful game-making tool, and Lua is the coding language behind it. If your child already enjoys Roblox, learning Lua will let them design their own 3D games, from obstacle courses to full adventures they can play with friends.
🎮 They can even publish their games and earn Robux if they gain popularity!
💡 Parent Tip: Lua and Roblox Studio are perfect for creative kids who want to blend storytelling, design, and coding.
JavaScript
Great for: Kids curious about the web and browser games (Our older Coco students use Javascript in their lessons)
JavaScript is the language behind most websites and many online games. It’s an excellent choice for kids who want to make interactive projects they can share online — like simple games, animations, and even their own web pages.
🎮 Used for making browser-based games and fun interactive experiences.
💡 Parent Tip: JavaScript is a real-world, in-demand language — and it’s great for creative kids who love to tinker.
C# with Unity
Great for: Kids who want to make advanced games or dream of a future in game design
Unity is a game engine used by professionals to create games for mobile, PC, consoles, and more. C# is the language used within Unity, and while it’s a bit more advanced, it’s powerful and great for kids who are ready for a bigger challenge.
🎮 Make full 2D or 3D games, from simple platforms to virtual worlds.
💡 Parent Tip: If your child is dreaming big — Unity and C# are what many real-world developers use every day.
Why Learning to Code Through Games Works
Learning to code by making games isn’t just fun — it helps kids:
Think logically and solve problems
Get creative and build from their imagination
Work through challenges and build resilience
Whether your child wants to design their own mini-game or become a future developer, game coding is a great way to start.
Start Their Journey with Coco Coders
At Coco Coders, kids don’t just learn to code — they create, explore, and build confidence through guided lessons and exciting projects. Whether they’re using Scratch to design their first game or diving into Javascript, they’ll be learning real skills while having a great time.
🎮 With the right tools and support, coding can be the most exciting adventure your child goes on this year.
Learning to code goes far beyond game development. It's one of the most valuable skills a child can learn — no matter what career they choose in the future.
Want to learn more about how Coco Coders can help your child start coding? Sign up now and we’ll help them get started.