The first step is an obvious one: start a new project on the Scratch interface. Navigate to the Scratch homepage and click the “create” button to start a new project.
Once you’ve done this, your screen should be split into three sections:
On the left-hand side: You should see the “Blocks” panel with all the various coding blocks.
In the Center: You should have a large area to place the correct coding blocks.
On the right-hand side: You should have your stage and a small panel used to manage your characters (sprites) and backgrounds.
Once you have the above, you’ll want to drag and drop the code blocks into the center area. By default, the Scratch Cat character will appear in the stage section.
As mentioned earlier, there are various objects and characters for your little ones to interact with.
By clicking on each sprite, you’ll be able to code for them. There are a near limitless number of storylines you can create using different codes and sprites.
Drag blocks of code from the left-hand side and connect them together. As mentioned, each block of code has different actions, meaning that when they’re coded to a sprite, the sprite will perform that action.
When these blocks and sprites are connected together, they form the basis of your animations, games, or other project.
Once you’ve coded the project, you’re ready to watch your project run on the stage. Clicking the green flag will put your project into action.
To save or share your project, you’ll need to set up an account. Everything on Scratch is strictly moderated to keep children safe. You will need to be present if your young one is making a Scratch account.