What's a ‘variable’ in coding?
What’s a “Variable” in Coding?
What your child is learning in their Coco Coders lessons
In your child’s Coco Coders coding lessons—whether they’re learning through block-based coding (like Scratch) or exploring text-based coding (like Python)—one of the core concepts they’ll come across is something called a “variable.”
Think of a variable like a labeled box that stores information. It could be a number, a word, or even a list of things. Just like labeling a box “Snacks” or “Toys,” in coding, variables have names so we know what they’re storing and can use them when needed.
Here’s what kids are learning about variables:
Name: Each variable has a name (like score, playerName or livesLeft) that tells the program what kind of information it’s working with.
Value: This is what the variable is holding—for example,
score=10Data Type: Variables can store different kinds of data, like numbers, text, or true/false values.
Scope: Some variables work everywhere in a program, while others are only used in specific sections.
Changeable: Variables often change as the program runs—like increasing a score or updating a message.
In block-based coding, your child might use blocks like “set score to 0” or “change score by 1.” In text-based coding, they’ll type commands like score = 0. Either way, they’re learning how to store and manage information - the same way professional programmers do.
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