What Is Coding?
Coding is the process of giving instructions to a computer to create programs, games, websites, and apps. For kids, learning to code builds creativity, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills, while also giving them the tools to bring their ideas to life.
On Dojo Tutor, Coding classes are personalized 1:1 sessions where students can explore block-based coding (like Scratch and Blockly) or beginner-friendly text-based programming languages (like Python or JavaScript). Tutors adapt sessions to each child’s grade, experience, and interests, whether they’re creating animations, building games, or learning foundational programming concepts.
The Overarching Goal of Coding
Coding is more than just learning a programming language. It helps students:
- 🧩 Strengthen logical thinking and problem-solving
- 🎨 Build creative projects like games, animations, or websites
- 🐞 Develop resilience through debugging and iteration
- 🚀 Prepare for future learning in STEM fields and beyond
By focusing on these skills, Coding tutors give students both practical technical skills and broader learning strategies that support academic success.
Who Can Teach Coding?
To ensure a high-quality experience for students and to meet the expectations of families who are looking for in-depth and foundational learning experiences, we’re looking for tutors who demonstrate:
- Knowledge and Technical Proficiency: Familiar with block-based programming (Scratch, Blockly) and at least one text-based language such as Python, JavaScript, etc.
- Teaching Experience with Children: At least one year of experience teaching or mentoring coding to students online or in-person, preferably with elementary or middle school students, or beginners.
- Ability to Explain Coding Concepts: Can break down and clearly explain abstract coding concepts such as algorithms, data structures, and debugging strategies, as well as basic syntax in simple, age-appropriate terms.
- Strong Problem-Solving Approach: Focuses on critical thinking and debugging while promoting a growth mindset by encouraging students to take initiative and develop self-directed learning skills.
Because Coding requires specialized knowledge, tutors must complete a specialty application before teaching this subject.
Specialty Application Process
To become a Coding tutor, you’ll complete a short Hireflix application with two video prompts:
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Teaching Algorithms:
- You have an upcoming lesson teaching algorithms to intermediate students (grades 3-5). The lesson will need to include: an introduction, hands-on activity, and a programming activity or similar in order for students to learn and understand this fundamental coding concept. In your 2-minute response, include a structured outline of the lesson with a clear beginning, middle, and end as well as details on tools, activities, coding programs, and languages you will use. Please record your video response for teaching this lesson.
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First Class with a Beginner:
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Your first class for coding is a 2nd grade student with very little coding experience. Show how you would start the session and build excitement for coding. Next, briefly introduce a key coding concept, such as variables, loops, etc. Finally, share how you would conclude the class, sharing some recommendations and explaining how to enroll in future classes with the parent. Please record your video response for teaching this student.
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Your first class for coding is a 2nd grade student with very little coding experience. Show how you would start the session and build excitement for coding. Next, briefly introduce a key coding concept, such as variables, loops, etc. Finally, share how you would conclude the class, sharing some recommendations and explaining how to enroll in future classes with the parent. Please record your video response for teaching this student.
Once submitted, our team will review your application and notify you about the next steps.
Coding Trial Assessments
All Coding students will begin with a trial session. Tutors will use the provided slide decks and resources to:
- Assess a student’s prior coding experience
- Explore their interests (games, stories, websites, etc.)
- Try a short activity (like a Scratch mini-project or a simple Python program)
- Set personalized goals for ongoing sessions
Weekly Coding Classes
Each Coding session can follow a simple pacing guide:
- Warm-Up & Goal Review – Check in on progress and recall last session’s concepts.
- New Concept Spotlight – Introduce a coding concept (loops, variables, debugging, etc.) through a hands-on activity.
- Project Work – Apply the concept in a project (e.g., game, animation, app).
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Wrap-Up & Preview – Celebrate progress, discuss challenges, and preview the next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can I teach Coding to?
A: Coding is available for grades K–12. Tutors can tailor lessons for beginners through intermediate students, focusing on both fun enrichment and foundational programming skills.
Q: Do I need to use a specific coding platform?
A: No. You can use recommended tools like Scratch, Code.org, Python (Replit/Trinket), Roblox Studio, etc, depending on the student’s age and level.
Q: Do I need to prepare a curriculum?
A: Tutors can use the provided trial resources and optional lesson plan templates, but you’re encouraged to bring in tools and projects you’re comfortable with.
Q: What kinds of goals should I set for Coding students?
A: Goals should be skill-based and project-focused, tailored to the student’s grade level and interests. For example:
- “Create a Scratch game with loops and variables”
- “Build a simple website with HTML/CSS”
- “Write a Python program that uses functions and conditionals”
Q: How do I know if I’m qualified to teach Coding?
A: If you have both coding knowledge and experience working with children, and you complete the specialty application process, you’ll be set up for success as a Coding tutor.
More questions? Email our team at: tutoring-support@classdojo.com