Coding books for kids can be a game-changer when it comes to teaching real programming skills in a fun and accessible way. Whether your child is a complete beginner or ready for more advanced logic challenges, the right book can spark curiosity, build confidence, and lay a strong foundation for future learning. This list highlights our top picks for books that actually teach useful skills with clear explanations and hands-on activities. And they aren’t just for the classroom.
As a full-time web developer and parent, I’m always looking for fun and natural ways to share the world of tech with my kids. I build websites by day, and by evening I’m helping my kids understand how the digital world works. One of the best ways I’ve found to introduce programming? Books.
Note: These Amazon links are not affiliate links. I’m just sharing books we’ve enjoyed.
Nonfiction Coding Books for Kids
These books explain how coding works in a way that makes sense to kids, even if you’re not a programmer yourself.
1. Lift-the-Flap Computers and Coding by Rosie Dickins
Ages 5 to 8
With interactive flaps and fun illustrations, this book helps kids understand how computers follow instructions and how code fits in.
2. Hello Ruby by Linda Liukas
Ages 5 to 9
Part picture book and part activity guide, this series teaches problem-solving, patterns, and logic in a way that feels like play.
3. My First Coding Book by Kiki Prottsman
Ages 4 to 7
This board book introduces kids to sequencing, loops, and simple algorithms. Great for younger siblings who want to learn alongside older kids.
4. Coding Projects in Scratch (DK Publishing)
Ages 8 to 12
Full of step-by-step visuals for building games, animations, and art using the Scratch platform. A solid resource when your kids are ready for screen time with a purpose.
5. Coding for Kids: Python by Adrienne B. Tacke
Ages 8 to 12
Simple language and game-based projects help kids jump into Python. It’s a good option for older elementary students ready to try a real coding language.
Fiction Coding Books for Kids That Make Coding Fun
These stories bring coding ideas to life with relatable characters and creative adventures.
6. Secret Coders by Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes
Ages 8 to 12
A graphic novel where kids crack puzzles using logic and basic coding concepts. It’s fun and surprisingly educational.
7. Ada Lace, on the Case by Emily Calandrelli
Ages 7 to 10
Ada is a young inventor and science fan who solves mysteries with tech, gadgets, and curiosity. Think coding meets Nancy Drew.
8. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
Ages 8 to 11
While it’s not directly about coding, the story of a robot navigating the wild touches on logic, learning, and robotics.
9. Girls Who Code: The Friendship Code by Stacia Deutsch
Ages 8 to 12
A heartwarming chapter book that follows a group of girls learning to code together. Encourages teamwork and tech confidence.
10. The Boy Who Thought Outside the Box by Marcie Wessels
Ages 6 to 10
A picture book biography of Ralph Baer, inventor of the video game console. A great read for kids interested in inventing.
Why These Coding Books for Kids Work So Well
At home, I rotate these books into our reading routine and pair them with real-world logic puzzles, unplugged activities, and hands-on projects. Sometimes the books lead to bigger conversations about how software is built. Other times, they just spark curiosity and imagination.
If you’re a parent working in tech and want to share that with your kids, these books are a great place to start.
Want more hands-on options? Visit our Freebies page to grab printable coding activities that are perfect for screen-free learning and creative play.
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