Code Explorers Curriculum
A hands-on, story-driven coding program that introduces children to the fundamentals of programming, systems thinking, and early AI concepts through games, animations, robotics, and simulations.
Learning Outcomes
- How to break problems into code-based solutions
- The logic behind if/else decisions, loops, and variables
- How intelligent systems behave, learn, and adapt
- How to think critically about fairness, input, and machine decision-making
- Basic robotics and sensor feedback using LEGO SPIKE (Levels 3–6)
Our AI Approach
We don't teach real AI tools yet—but we teach children how intelligent systems think and behave. Kids simulate AI through pattern recognition, feedback loops, and system memory. They're not just learning how to code—they're learning how machines learn.
Learning Journey
Foundation Building
Master core concepts, basic logic, and fundamental programming principles
Skill Development
Apply knowledge to complex projects, explore AI concepts, and build interactive systems
Advanced Application
Create sophisticated projects, understand ethics, and showcase mastery through capstone work
Program Pathways
Code Explorers and AI Creators are designed as complementary learning paths. Many children complete all 8 levels before joining AI Creators, while others may transition around Level 6 or 7 when ready for more tool-driven AI exploration.
Program Completion Outcomes
By completing Code Explorers, students will understand how AI works, use it effectively and responsibly, and create systems that think, respond, and adapt—all through a foundation of strong logical thinking and creative problem-solving.
Complete 8-Level Curriculum
Each level builds upon the previous one, creating a comprehensive learning journey that develops both technical skills and creative thinking. Students progress at their own pace while mastering essential concepts.
Programming as Instructions
Students learn the fundamental concept that computers follow instructions in a specific order. They explore how user input triggers actions and how code processes input to produce visual and sound output.
Sample Project Outcome
A spacebar-controlled story animation that moves characters through scenes or makes them dance.
Core Topics (3)
Learning Outcomes
- Create step-by-step instructions for simple tasks
- Understand the importance of order in programming
- Debug sequence errors in code
Learning Outcomes
- Implement keyboard and mouse event handlers
- Create interactive programs that respond to user input
- Understand the concept of event-driven programming
Learning Outcomes
- Design programs that take user input
- Create visual and audio feedback systems
- Understand the input-process-output model
Skills Developed in This Level
Reactions and Rule-Based Behavior
Students explore how programs can make decisions using conditional logic and create experiences that change based on different inputs and situations.
Sample Project Outcome
A quiz game that responds with different animations or feedback based on answers.
Core Topics (3)
Learning Outcomes
- Write if/then statements to control program flow
- Create programs that make decisions based on conditions
- Understand boolean logic and comparison operators
Learning Outcomes
- Implement timing controls in programs
- Create animations with proper pacing
- Understand synchronization in programming
Learning Outcomes
- Create multiple pathways in programs
- Design interactive stories with choices
- Implement complex decision trees
Skills Developed in This Level
Patterns and Repetition
Students learn to use loops to create efficient, repeating behaviors and recognize how patterns form the foundation of intelligent systems.
Sample Project Outcome
A LEGO SPIKE robot that performs a dance routine or patrols in a loop.
Core Topics (3)
Learning Outcomes
- Implement for loops and repeat blocks
- Optimize code using repetition structures
- Create efficient animation sequences
Learning Outcomes
- Design continuous background processes
- Create persistent game mechanics
- Understand infinite loop concepts and control
Learning Outcomes
- Identify and create visual patterns
- Design predictable system behaviors
- Understand pattern recognition principles
Skills Developed in This Level
Memory and Game State
Students discover how programs can store and remember information using variables, creating the foundation for intelligent behavior and game logic.
Sample Project Outcome
A coin collection game with score tracking and level progression.
Core Topics (3)
Learning Outcomes
- Create and manipulate different types of variables
- Understand data storage concepts
- Use variables to track program state
Learning Outcomes
- Design game states and transitions
- Implement win/lose conditions
- Create complex interactive systems
Learning Outcomes
- Implement counters and scoring systems
- Create reset and restart functionality
- Understand data persistence concepts
Skills Developed in This Level
Communication and Systems Thinking
Students learn how different parts of a system can communicate and coordinate, building the foundation for understanding complex intelligent systems.
Sample Project Outcome
A group of sprites (or robots) that respond to a broadcast signal, such as one sprite 'calling for help' and others responding.
Core Topics (3)
Learning Outcomes
- Implement message passing between objects
- Create coordinated system responses
- Understand event-driven architecture
Learning Outcomes
- Create interactive multi-character systems
- Design collaborative behaviors
- Implement group coordination logic
Learning Outcomes
- Create reusable code functions
- Understand modular programming principles
- Design scalable system architectures
Skills Developed in This Level
Recognizing Patterns and Proto-AI
Students explore how systems can recognize patterns in input and make intelligent-seeming decisions based on rules and conditions.
Sample Project Outcome
A LEGO SPIKE robot that responds differently to red vs blue cards (e.g., flashing lights or directional movement).
Core Topics (3)
Learning Outcomes
- Implement color and touch sensor programming
- Create responsive physical systems
- Understand sensor data processing
Learning Outcomes
- Design complex conditional logic
- Implement pattern matching algorithms
- Create adaptive system responses
Learning Outcomes
- Create rule-based decision systems
- Simulate intelligent behavior patterns
- Understand expert system principles
Skills Developed in This Level
Feedback and Learning Simulations
Students create systems that can adapt and change behavior based on user interaction history, simulating basic learning mechanisms.
Sample Project Outcome
A digital pet that learns to 'like' certain buttons if pressed repeatedly and changes its behavior accordingly.
Core Topics (3)
Learning Outcomes
- Implement user interaction tracking
- Create persistent behavior records
- Understand data collection principles
Learning Outcomes
- Design adaptive system behaviors
- Implement learning-like responses
- Create evolving user experiences
Learning Outcomes
- Build feedback-driven systems
- Simulate machine learning concepts
- Understand reinforcement principles
Skills Developed in This Level
Building Simulated AI Agents
Students create systems that can classify inputs and make decisions, while exploring important questions about fairness and ethics in AI systems.
Sample Project Outcome
A visual classifier project where the system tries to identify emotions or objects—and offers a reason, right or wrong, for its guess.
Core Topics (3)
Learning Outcomes
- Implement basic classification systems
- Create category-based responses
- Understand pattern recognition basics
Learning Outcomes
- Identify potential bias in systems
- Design inclusive decision-making logic
- Understand ethical AI principles
Learning Outcomes
- Build explainable decision systems
- Create reasoning chains in code
- Understand transparency in AI
Skills Developed in This Level
Ready to Start Your Child's AI Journey?
Join Code Explorers and give your child the skills they need for the future. Our expert instructors and proven curriculum make learning AI fun, accessible, and impactful.