Best Children's Programming Books of 2025

The "Everything You Need to Ace Computer Science and Coding in One Big Fat Notebook" is a comprehensive guide to computer science and coding for middle school students. The book covers various topics such as computing systems, algorithms, programming in Scratch and Python, web development, and cybersecurity. The book is designed with key concepts, definitions, diagrams, and doodles, making it easy for students to understand and remember the subject matter. It is a perfect next step for students who grew up on Brain Quest. Overall, this book is a must-have for middle school students who want to learn computer science and coding in a fun and engaging way.

Trapped in a Video Game (Volume 1) is an action-packed book for kids who love video games. The story follows 12-year-old Jesse Rigsby and his friend Eric as they get sucked into a new game, Full Blast. Things take a dangerous turn when they realize they can't leave the game and a mysterious figure starts following them. The book is perfect for kids aged 8-12 and in 3rd grade and up. Dustin Brady, the author, writes in a funny and engaging way that will keep kids hooked. Overall, this book is a great choice for young readers who love video games and adventure.

Coding for Kids: Python is a great beginner's guide to programming for kids aged 10+. The book contains 50 fun and interactive activities that teach the basics of the Python programming language. With easy-to-follow guidance, engaging visual lessons, and game-based exercises, kids will progress through unique lessons packed with helpful examples. The book encourages kids to think independently and have fun while learning an amazing new skill. Overall, this book is a great resource for parents and educators looking to introduce kids to the world of coding.

Coding Games in Scratch: A Step-by-Step Visual Guide to Building Your Own Computer Games is an excellent resource for kids who want to learn how to code and create their own games. The book uses a practical approach to teach coding theory, making it easy for young programmers to understand the fundamentals of computer programming. With eight build-along game projects, children can create single and multiplayer platform games, puzzles, memory games, and more. The book also supports STEM education initiatives and the maker movement. Overall, this book is a fun and engaging way for kids to learn valuable coding skills.

The Baby University Quantum Science Board Book Set is an excellent educational collection of books for toddlers and babies. Authored by Chris Ferrie, an award-winning physicist, and Senior Lecturer for Quantum Software and Information at the University of Technology Sydney, these STEM books introduce basic scientific concepts and principles to even the youngest scientist. The set includes four colorful board books covering Quantum Entanglement, Quantum Computing, Quantum Information, and Neural Networks. These books are perfect for parents who want to introduce their children to science at an early age. Overall, this book set is a great gift for young children and science teachers alike.

The second edition of Python for Kids is an excellent book for young readers interested in programming. The author, Jason R. Briggs, uses a playful approach to introduce the latest version of Python, including tons of new projects, colorful illustrations, and quirky example programs. The book features programming puzzles that help readers to strengthen their understanding and stretch their brain. By the end of the book, young readers will have programmed two complete games. This updated and revised edition reflects the latest Python version and programming practices. Python for Kids is a fantastic book to get started with programming.

Baby Loves Coding! (Baby Loves Science) is a clever board book that showcases the use of logic, sequence, and patterns to solve problems in a developmentally appropriate way for the littlest listeners. The book introduces STEM topics in a fun, visually stimulating way that encourages a baby's sense of wonder. The author aims to create a solid foundation for reading, writing, math, and eventually programming by presenting the concepts of sequencing, problem-solving, cause and effect, and thinking step-by-step. The book is expertly reviewed, accurate enough to satisfy an expert, yet simple enough for a baby. Overall, this book is a great addition to the Baby Loves Science series and a unique way to introduce coding to young children.

Coding Games in Python by DK Children is a great book for children who are interested in learning how to code. This book is perfect for both beginners and experienced programmers. The book takes readers through the process of building and playing their own computer games using the Python programming language. Each chapter is broken down into simple numbered steps that are easy to follow. The book also provides readers with the resources they need to add animations, music, and other exciting touches to their games. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for children who want to learn how to code and build their own games.

The Official Scratch Coding Cards (Scratch 3.0) by Natalie Rusk is an excellent guide for kids to learn coding with Scratch, a free-to-use graphical programming language. The 75-card deck features interactive programming projects, such as creating games, stories, music, and animations. Each card shows an activity on the front and how to put code blocks together on the back. Kids also learn coding concepts like sequencing, conditionals, and variables. The author, a lead developer of Scratch, co-founded The Computer Clubhouse, an international network of after-school centers where young people learn to use new technologies creatively. This book is a must-have for parents and educators who want to introduce coding to children in a fun and engaging way.

Coding with Roblox Lua in 24 Hours: The Official Roblox Guide is a comprehensive guide for beginners who want to learn Lua programming and create their own Roblox experiences. The book consists of 24 short and easy lessons that cover everything from basic coding concepts to advanced techniques like raycasting and object-oriented programming. Each lesson includes step-by-step instructions, quizzes, exercises, and insider tips to help readers build and test their knowledge. The book is authored by Roblox, a leading online entertainment platform, and published by Sams Publishing. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in game development or Lua programming.