At 9 years old, kids are at the perfect age to dive into coding. They’re naturally curious, eager to experiment, and not intimidated by technology. That’s why Panda Programmer offers coding classes and summer camps specifically designed for kids ages 8 to 12, providing them with the skills and confidence to create their own games, animations, and interactive projects.

Despite the growing importance of technology, most elementary and middle schools don’t teach computer science. This leaves many kids without the opportunity to develop essential tech skills early on. At Panda Programmer, we fill that gap by introducing children to fun, hands-on programming activities that start simple and grow with them. Kids begin with interactive animations and quickly advance to building their own games and projects using real coding concepts like loops, conditionals, and logical structures.

Coding Develops Essential Thinking Skills

Coding is more than just learning how to use a computer—it strengthens the brain in ways that benefit kids far beyond the screen. Research shows that programming helps develop:

 Logical Thinking – Understanding sequences and patterns in code.

 Problem-Solving Skills – Debugging mistakes and finding creative solutions.

 Planning & Organization – Structuring projects step by step.

 Critical & Analytical Thinking – Deciding which coding techniques to use.

Our curriculum at Panda Programmer is designed to nurture these cognitive skills while keeping kids engaged and excited to learn. We use this same proven approach in all of our after-school classes, summer camps, and online programs.

A Head Start on Future Careers

By age 9or 10, kids start exploring their interests, and exposure to coding can shape their future. Programming is a valuable skill that opens doors to careers in:

• Technology & Engineering – Game design, robotics, app development
• Science & Medicine – Medical research, AI in healthcare
• Business & Entrepreneurship – Using technology to solve real-world problems

Even if they don’t pursue programming as a career, learning to code gives kids an advantage by improving problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity—skills that are useful in any profession.

The Power of In-Person Learning

While online coding programs exist, nothing beats the effectiveness of learning in person with dedicated instructors who provide hands-on support. Our classes are held in MCPS schools, and our summer camps take place in Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, and Bethesda, making it easy for kids to get a high-quality coding education close to home.

Give your 9-year-old a fun, educational experience that builds real skills for the future!

 Enroll today at PandaProgrammer.com