ScratchJr

Designed for children ages 5-7. Move colorful blocks to build programs and bring characters to life!

ScratchJr is a beginner-friendly programming language crafted for young learners (ages 5+) to design interactive stories and games. Kids connect visual coding blocks to animate characters—making them jump, dance, sing, and more. They can personalize characters using the paint editor, record custom sounds and voices, even add personal photos, then program their creations to move and respond.

Inspired by the globally popular Scratch language (scratch.mit.edu), ScratchJr adapts the experience for younger minds. We redesigned both interface and coding elements to align with early childhood development, ensuring features support cognitive, social, and emotional growth.

We consider coding a fundamental literacy skill. Like writing organizes thoughts, programming structures creativity. While coding once seemed inaccessible, we believe everyone should learn it—just as everyone learns to write.

With ScratchJr, children don't just use technology—they shape it. Through creating, they build problem-solving skills, project design thinking, and sequencing abilities crucial for future learning. The app naturally integrates math and language concepts, strengthening early numeracy and literacy through purposeful play. Here, kids code to learn, not just learn to code.

ScratchJr is developed collaboratively by Tufts University's DevTech Research Group, MIT Media Lab's Lifelong Kindergarten, and Playful Invention Company. Two Sigma engineered the Android version, while HvingtQuatre Company and Sarah Thomson crafted its vibrant visuals.

Enjoying this free app? Consider supporting ScratchJr's future through a donation to the Scratch Foundation (scratchfoundation.org). Every contribution makes a difference.

Note: This version requires Android 4.2+ (Jelly Bean) and runs exclusively on tablets with 7-inch+ screens.

Terms of Use: scratchjr.org/eula.html

What's New in Version 1.5.11

Updated November 28, 2023

Includes minor fixes and enhancements. Update today to experience the improvements!