This is an in-depth Code Ninjas review to help you decide if it’s worth it or not.
If you’ve heard about this educational center and you are not sure how it works, how much it cost, or how to get started, read this review to the end.
What is Code Ninjas? Is It Worth It for Kids to Learn Coding?
Code ninjas is a coding school focused on teaching kids computer programming. They are open to boys and girls which is one way to engage kids, especially girls, in STEM.
They are one of the best tutor academies for kids, boasting over 400 tutor centers scattered around the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Even though they can be mistaken for a martial arts school on the outside, they also spice up things by having a program structure like a martial arts school. They use terms like belt, scout troop, sensei, and code ninjas.
Students are placed in scout troops according to their sex. This means that boys are placed in boys scout troops and girls are placed in girls scout troops which are going to be led by troop leaders. Also, students who pass their tests successfully will be allowed to make it to the next belt.
Coding Ninjas offers a way to teach computer programming to kids without putting parents through the stress of learning it first.
Although courses can be pricey and classes can be competitive, there are still many positive feedbacks. By the end of this Code Ninjas review, you will know if this coding school is worth it or not.
Code Ninjas Programs’ Reviews
Code Ninjas has a ton of coding training, and I covered them below.
1. An Hour of Code Review
With just under one hour of intensive coding class, your kids can learn a lot from this Code Ninja course. Different courses are offered during an hour of code; courses that most tech-inclined companies would require adults to learn.
Code Ninjas’ “An Hour of Code” program is a dedicated learning session that is enough for kids. The program is structured so that the courses are not overwhelming for kids. This gives kids enough breathing space to practice what they have learned for the rest of the day.
During an hour of code, kids get the opportunity to learn computer programming languages in a fun way. Large screens with slides, colorful images, and games are used to accelerate the learning process.
In this program, kids will learn all about object-oriented programming. And will also be exposed to block coding using the Scratch programming platform (which was built by MIT) and MakeCode (which was built by Microsoft).
For a basic course, students get the opportunity to create forest pathways in block coding in an hour with the help of Sensei. When looking at how much kids can achieve in an hour, I think it’s an okay deal.
However, if you know anything about coding you will know that one hour is barely enough to scratch the surface. I bet you don’t want your kid to learn something in 1 hour only to forget it the next hour.
So I do not recommend this program because there’s a better alternative, which I have mentioned in another section of this Code Ninjas review. Keep reading.
2. Minecraft 2-Day Coding Camp Review
The Minecraft 2-day coding camp is a coding program that is structured for just 2 days. It offers to teach kids how to effectively design and manipulate Minecraft modifications with conditionals, variables, and procedures.
In a day, classes are scheduled to run for about 8 hours. Different locations can have different class schedules. You should check with the nearest center to know what time of day their class starts.
The 2-day Minecraft program can be pricy for most people. On the first day, the code ninjas (which is what students at Code ninjas are called) will get an introductory course in Java Minecraft. And later on, their Sensei (tutors) will leave them to get familiar with the system.
On the second day, the tutors will teach the kids how to make modifications using Minecraft. It can be a great experience and opportunity to learn computer programming for some kids (especially kids with no knowledge of Java Minecraft).
On the other hand, it can only be a fun-filled gaming experience for kids who already know Java.
But in the end, the experience can vary for each kid. Some kids can be really into Minecraft and some might not.
Also, most parents admitted that their kids used a larger percentage of the day playing games than learning the actual coding. Plus it’s a no-brainer that 2 days of Minecraft coding isn’t enough to move the needle.
These kids need a more relaxing and consistent approach to embrace the concept. Again, I believe there’s a better alternative, which I have addressed below.
3. Roblox 2-Day Coding Camp Review
The Roblox 2-day coding camp is made for kids to learn the basics of game development. Roblox offers a platform for kids (or anyone) to become creative in building games on the online gaming platform.
In the Roblox 2-day coding camp, kids are expected to know how to code in Roblox. Coding in Roblox is done in a programming language called Lua which is stored and run as a scripting language on the platform.
The program is focused on helping kids create and program their games on Roblox. From there on, they can pick up an interest in game development and other vital computer programming languages for software development.
Most parents would recommend Roblox over Minecraft. This is because most kids are more challenged using Roblox than Minecraft. Plus, the Roblox studio opens up a kid’s mind to become more creative using computer programming languages.
The Roblox 2-day coding camp program is also as pricey as the 2-day Minecraft coding camp. Class schedules can be different across various centers. Do well to check with the nearest center to book a space for your kid.
For this particular program, many parents confirmed that their kids gained a lot from it. But like the other two-day camp, I don’t recommend it because there is a better alternative.
Other Code Ninjas Available Programs and Costs
Code ninjas also offer other plans apart from the 2-day camp programs. These programs are usually done a few days in a month and they are classed according to what they offer and, of course, cost.
They include:
- Juniors and Clubs Monthly
- Create Gold Monthly
- Create Platinum Monthly
1. Juniors and Clubs Monthly
The Juniors and Clubs Monthly is a program that has a specific course structure that lets kids meet at their centers once a week. The kids can choose to have a tutor for guidance or choose to follow a self-paced regime. The price for the Juniors and Clubs Monthly program is $139 every month.
2. Create Gold Monthly
The Create Gold Monthly is a program that is structured with better courses. This program lets code ninjas plan their schedule and meet at their centers for 2 hours a week. The price for Create Gold Monthly program costs is $239 every month.
3. Create Platinum Monthly
The Create Platinum Monthly program stands as the ultimate package. This program lets students have 4 sessions of learning and practice in a week.
Some activities kids in this rank enjoy include 2 free summer camps, day camps, and free parent’s night out. The Create Platinum Monthly program costs $339 monthly.
Program structure, class schedule, and program costs may vary between Code Ninjas centers. Do well to contact the nearest center in your country to inquire.
Overall, Is Code Ninjas Worth It?
Of course, Code Ninjas looks great on paper plus they have good reviews too. But in my opinion, when compared to other competitive coding platforms, it’s not worth it because they are lacking in many areas.
The most important factor that doesn’t quite sit well with me is their price structure. Indeed, programs offered at most coding franchises are usually pricey, but when compared with other options, they have no discounts whatsoever to help parents lessen costs.
Another reason is the lesson itself. Kids at Code Ninjas are more active at playing than learning the actual coding. And this defeats the purpose of the whole concept entirely.
On the other hand, there is a better alternative that blows Code Ninjas out of the water. They offer the same courses and services but with a little distinction to stand out. Their pricing structure is great and it helps parents save money.
And thanks to their discounts, parents who have more than three kids can save costs even while paying in installments.
Allow me to introduce you to Code Wizards HQ, the best option for kids to start their journey as a programmer.
Code Ninjas vs Code Wizards HQ: Which is the Best for Kids to Learn Coding?
Code Ninjas and Code Wizards HQ are notable choices for kids to learn computer programming. Both companies are different in their ways but offer almost similar courses.
But what makes them stand apart?
Code Wizards HQ is an online platform that does not pose limitations to kids. They are open to kids from any country and have a set of structured course programs for kids of various age brackets and educational levels.
On Code Wizards HQ, students have 24/7 access to proprietary coding platforms where they are engaged in hands-on project-based courses. They are constantly guided by highly qualified and experienced teachers through a structured and comprehensive curriculum.
Students can message teachers directly and actively engage in their supportive online student community. There are video recordings of every class and slides that can be downloaded. Students are given a certificate for every course that they complete.
On the other hand, Code Ninjas have over 400 physical centers in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, where kids have to attend. The available courses and class schedules are different across all centers but prices are always constant in every country.
In general, Code Wizards HQ stands to be a better option. Not just because they reach a wider audience, but because they have other perks to account for. Some of those perks include cheaper pricing, better teaching approaches, referral bonuses, scholarships, small class sizes, a pathway to real-world internship, and better course programs.
So if you desire to get your kids involved in coding and grow their knowledge fast, Code Wizards HQ is an incredible platform to rely on. Your wards will learn real programming languages and be assigned mini projects to complete, to evaluate their growth.
Speaking of course programs, Code Wizards HQ offers outstanding options worth checking out.
1. Code Wizards HQ Elementary School Review
Like a traditional elementary school, Code Wizards HQ has a program structure for kids from the ages of 8 – 10. The program structure is broken down into three wizard levels with each level having 3 courses. Each course runs for one hour a week for 12 weeks.
In the first-level wizard courses, kids will get to learn computer programming using a simple drag-and-drop method in a gaming environment. For the first 12 weeks, the course program will cover animation and games using Scratch programming language.
As the course furthers, kids will get to learn logic in Scratch and delve into text-based programming.
The level 2 wizard program introduces Python programming to kids (one of the most sought-after programming languages). While in the wizard level 3 course, kids will learn how to create websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. At the end of each level, the kids will be challenged with a capstone that will last for 12 weeks.
You can see that in this program alone, your kids will get into the depth of coding. By the time they finish their challenge, they will already have a lot of coding experience.
2. Code Wizards HQ Middle School Review
After Elementary school, kids graduate into Middle school. Middle School courses give kids between the ages of 11 – 13 the opportunity to learn backend development and get exposed to some of the world’s popular programming languages.
In the first wizard level, the kids will be exposed to learning the basics of Python and beyond. Later on, they delve into building web pages using HTML and CSS and face a capstone for the level.
In the second wizard level, they will be faced with building responsive websites, interacting with JavaScript, and learning all about website interfaces. And when they progress into the third level, they will be introduced to something new — Database.
In the first few weeks in level three, kids will be introduced to database and then progress to learning all about APIs and mastering databases. And, of course, work on their capstone to graduate into high school.
3. Code Wizards HQ High School Review
This is the highest level of education in Code Wizards HQ suitable for kids from the ages of 14 – 18. The high school program is designed to prepare kids for college and a real-world internship program.
The course program starts by teaching kids the introduction to Python, the fundamentals of web development, and user interface development. Students will also have to participate in a capstone project.
For the next wizard level, students will be taught APIs and Databases, learn how to develop professional web apps, and learn about the modern CSS framework. While in the last wizard level, they will master MVC frameworks, and object-relational mappings, and study DevOps and software engineering.
After students complete their capstone project, they will be considered for a real-world internship program.
If you want your kids to have a deeper knowledge of many programming languages, pick one of the above programs to enroll them in.
4. Code Wizards HQ Python Language Track Review
The Python Language Track course program is targeted at kids who only have an interest in learning Python. Students don’t need to have ground knowledge about Python. The course will teach them from the basics up to an advanced level.
Since python is the most used language and an average Python programmer can earn over $120k annually, it makes sense to have a dedicated program for the programming language.
The program offers four courses and in each course, there are twelve lessons. There are no wizard levels, just one level with a capstone project. Kids who enrolled in this program can skip Python courses in other programs they may want to enroll in.
This is because they will already be good with Python programming.
5. Code Wizards HQ After School Coding Program Review
The After school coding program is designed to aid students to add coding to their after-school activities. Right after school closes the session, kids can immediately engage themselves in one of the programming courses from any of the school levels (the first three), so far their age qualifies for it.
Classes are open to students with an age range from 8 – 18. Students will also get to pick real-world programming language courses that will teach them how to create games, websites, and apps — all with the help of an expert teacher.
Classes are live which means parents don’t have to drive their kids to and pick them up from physical centers. The program consists of 3-week classes and 12 class sessions which are taught by a teacher. The teacher will also give parents frequent updates on their kid’s progress.
6. Code Wizards HQ Homeschool Coding Program Review
Code Wizards HQ teaches coding to home-schooled kids who have decided to add coding to their curriculum. Using a multi-year structured curriculum, small-sized live classes are held for home-schooled kids who are between the ages of 8 – 18.
Over the years, Code Wizards HQ has partnered with some home-school programs to effectively manage home-school programs. This program offers beginner-friendly courses with 12 sessions that will run for 6 or 12 weeks.
The class times are flexible and parents get regular updates on their kid’s progress. If your kid has experience with computer programming, they can always take a placement test to know which courses to take.
7. Code Wizards HQ AP Computer Science A & Principles Prep Course Review
Kids who have an interest in learning Object-oriented programming with Java can do so by enrolling in the AP Computer Science A & Principle Prep course. This course was designed to prepare students for the AP Computer Science course in high school.
Usually, the course is only offered in the summer as a 3-week class. In this class, students will only get to learn an Introductory and an Intermediate Java course.
The learning approach is project-based and covers topics like Variables and Data Types, Methods and Parameters, Control Statements, Multidimensional Arrays, Logical Operators, Encapsulation, and many more.
8. Code Wizards HQ Summer Classes & Coding Camps for Kids Review
Code Wizards HQ also offers summer classes and coding camps for kids within the age bracket of 8 – 18. This summer program is geared to help kids and teens learn how to develop games and build websites while exploring Python, Scratch, Minecraft, Roblox, and more.
Students will have to either choose between a 1-week coding camp (5 sessions in a week) or a 3-week coding class (4 sessions in a week). This is better than the 2-day options provided by Code Ninja.
The summer 3-week coding class is an accelerated version of the 12-week structured school-level programs. On the other hand, students will only get to practice with Minecraft and Roblox while on the 1-week camp.
How Much Does Code Wizard HQ Costs?
Unlike Code Ninja which cost monthly payments, Code Wizards HQ charges $447 per course. You can also pay in 3 installments to reduce the weight of a one-time payment.
They also offer a money-back guarantee if you are not happy with your child’s progress after the first 4 classes.
Furthermore, if you think your child already has experience with computer programming but doesn’t know which level to start from, they can always take a placement test.
This allows the Code Wizards HQ tutors to know what level to place your kids.
Final Thought
While this is a Code Ninjas review, it’s only fair that I provide you with the best option so you can get the best return for your kids’ time and your money.
Overall, Code Wizards HQ is a better option to help your kids start their professional journey as a programmer. They structure their programs in such a way that your kids could become programming genius in no time.
You can get started by picking the best level for your kids or allow them to take the placement test so the tutors can know what program will fit them.
Code Wizards HQ is not only cheaper than Code Ninjas, but it’s also better.
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