Free Coding Classes for Kids in Minnesota
Ready to Code, Create, and Connect?
Code Explorers is a free coding program from Code Savvy designed to introduce students ages 8 and up to explore computer science in a welcoming environment. These free weekend coding classes and open coding sessions for kids in Minnesota give students the opportunity to explore programming, build projects, and learn from experienced industry mentors.
Explore at Your Own Pace
While we sometimes describe Code Explorers as “coding classes” to help families find us online, the experience is much more flexible. Students can attend sessions that fit their schedule, explore projects, experiment with technology, and learn alongside mentors at their own pace. There’s no requirement to attend every session — students are welcome to drop in, explore their interests, and continue building skills over time.
What Kids Learn in Code Explorers
Students participating in Code Explorers may explore:
- Scratch – A visual programming tool perfect for beginners
- Python – Learn coding for problem-solving and logical thinking
- Thunkable – Build simple mobile apps using block-based coding
- Java – Create larger projects using object-oriented programming
- Web Development – Learn the basics of websites and design
- Physical Computing – Program micro:bits and Edison robots to bring code to life
- Personal Projects – Build your own ideas with support from mentors
No Experience Required
No prior coding experience is needed! Code Explorers welcomes curious students who want to learn how technology works and build creative projects in a supportive environment.
This program helps young learners connect with mentors, gain real-world experience, and build confidence in technology.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If your student is new to coding, we recommend starting with Scratch.
Scratch is a beginner-friendly coding platform for kids that helps students learn programming concepts through creative projects like games, animations, and interactive stories. It’s a welcoming place to start and a great way to build confidence.
As students gain experience, many move on to Python and later explore other interests like web design, app development, and personal projects. During registration, students can choose the areas they’re most interested in, and mentors help support them as they learn.
Planning to try Scratch? Creating a free Scratch account at scratch.mit.edu ahead of time can help students get started more quickly. Please make sure your student knows their username and password so they can log in during the session!
For in-person sessions, wired headphones and a USB flash drive are helpful but not required. Many students enjoy experimenting with music and sounds in Scratch. For students working with Python or other tools, a flash drive makes it easy to save projects to take home.
Technovation Girls Teams: Get Help on Your Project
Working on a Technovation Girls Minnesota project? Code Explorers is a great place to get help.
During the Technovation season, teams are welcome to attend Code Explorers sessions to work on their apps, troubleshoot technical challenges, and get guidance from experienced mentors. Whether you need help with programming, debugging, design ideas, or preparing your project for submission, mentors are available to support you.
2026 Event Schedule
Spring sessions will be held at Minneapolis College — 1501 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403.
Summer sessions will be held at Dayton’s Bluff Library — 645 E 7th St, St Paul, MN 55106 or Arlington Hills Library – 1200 Payne Ave, St Paul, MN 55130.
We also offer virtual sessions over Zoom, so students can join from anywhere.
More dates may be added throughout the year.
In-Person Sessions
May 30, 2026
RegisterJune 13, 2026
RegisterJuly 11, 2026
RegisterJuly 25, 2026
RegisterAugust 15, 2026
RegisterAugust 29, 2026
RegisterSeptember 12, 2026
RegisterSeptember 26, 2026
RegisterVirtual Sessions
Looking for CoderDojo Twin Cities?
You’re in the right place! CoderDojo Twin Cities (CoderDojo TC) is now Code Explorers, a free youth coding program run by Code Savvy in Minnesota.
While the name has changed, the heart of the program remains the same. Code Explorers continues the welcoming, hands-on Saturday coding sessions that CoderDojo Twin Cities families know and love!
Code Explorers builds on the community originally created through CoderDojo Twin Cities, co-founded by Rebecca Schatz and Matt Gray, and continues to provide free opportunities for students to learn programming, explore technology, and build creative projects.
If you attended CoderDojo TC, volunteered with CoderDojo Twin Cities, or searched for CoderDojo Minnesota, welcome back! The program lives on through Code Explorers and Code Savvy, continuing to help students across the Twin Cities build confidence, creativity, and community through computer science.