codeSpark
A wordless learn-to-code app for kids ages 3–10, now part of Begin, where children solve drag-and-drop puzzles and then build their own games and stories, with no reading required.
What is codeSpark?
codeSpark is a coding app for kids ages 3 to 10. It used to be called codeSpark Academy with the Foos, and it is now part of Begin, an early-learning company. The core idea is a wordless game: kids drag picture commands to help characters through puzzles, with no reading required.
Begin says kids build problem-solving and sequencing skills through play, and that the app is built for children as young as 3.
How it works
Kids open the app on a phone or tablet and start with short puzzles. Each puzzle teaches one idea, like doing steps in order or repeating an action. As they progress, they unlock creative tools to build their own games and stories, which they can share.
Sessions are short, usually 10 to 20 minutes, and young kids can play alone. Parents mostly help with setup and decide how much screen time to allow.
What it covers
| Stage | What kids learn |
|---|---|
| Puzzles | Sequencing, simple commands, problem solving |
| Challenges | Loops, conditionals, events |
| Game and story creation | Designing, testing and sharing their own projects |
Begin groups its guidance into age bands from ages 3–4 up to 10 and over.
Who it's best for
codeSpark is a great first step for pre-readers and early readers, especially kids who like puzzles. It is a good fit for families with more than one young child, since annual plans allow up to 5 child profiles.
Kids over 10 will want something deeper. Families who prefer a computer-based program, or who want a clear price before they download, may prefer another option.
Pricing at a glance
codeSpark is a subscription with a 7-day free trial. As of October 2026, App Store enrollment options range from $7.99 to $99.99 depending on plan length and promotions, and Begin's site does not list a price.
Can a scholarship or ESA pay for it?
Possibly. Some ESA programs allow educational apps, but each program decides, and app-store subscriptions can be hard to pay with program funds. See our scholarships hub. On Edulist you can save codeSpark to your wishlist and apply once to programs that fit.
How it compares
Kodable is the closest rival for K–5 and adds JavaScript for older kids. ScratchJr, part of Scratch, is free for ages 5 to 7. Tynker has Tynker Junior for ages 5 to 7 and keeps going into the teen years. Code.org has a free Pre-reader Express course. See more coding programs for kids and preschool coding.
Who codeSpark is for (and who it isn’t)
Best for
- Pre-readers and early readers ages 3–7
- Kids who like puzzles and making their own simple games
- Families with several young kids on one plan
Look elsewhere if
- Kids over about 10
- Families who want a computer-based program
- Parents who want a clear, published price before downloading
codeSpark pros and cons
Pros
- No reading required, so preschoolers can start
- Teaches real concepts like sequencing, loops and conditionals
- Kids can build and share their own games
- 4.6 stars from about 41,000 App Store ratings
- Up to 5 child profiles on annual plans
Cons
- Pricing is not published on Begin's site and varies by plan and promotion
- Content tops out around age 10
- Some reviewers report bugs and a rough online community in game modes
- Mobile and tablet only
What’s included
- Wordless, drag-and-drop interface for pre-readers
- Puzzles that teach sequencing, loops and conditionals
- Game and story creation tools
- Up to 5 child profiles on annual plans, per the App Store
- Free Hour of Code activities with no credit card
- Free access for eligible North American educators
How much does codeSpark cost?
codeSpark is sold as an auto-renewing membership through the App Store, Google Play and Begin's website. As of October 2026, the App Store lists codeSpark Academy Enrollment in-app purchases priced from $7.99 to $99.99, which reflects different plan lengths and promotions. Begin's codeSpark page does not publish a price, so check the app or checkout for the current rate before you subscribe.
Free trial: Memberships start with a 7-day free trial, per the App Store listing.
Prices from the provider, checked 2026-10-13. Always confirm on the official site.
Future opening updates
Applications are not open on Edulist. Saving a product does not subscribe you or establish eligibility. Visit your wishlist to opt in for updates.
View wishlistWhat parents say
A summary of public parent feedback we read on forums, app stores and review sites. It is not a set of Edulist family reviews.
As of October 2026, codeSpark has a 4.6 out of 5 rating from about 41,000 App Store ratings. Many reviews come from kids who enjoy building games and want more customization. Complaints focus on bugs in the Splash Clash game mode, AI opponents filling in for real players, and some reports of unkind behavior in the community.
Common praise
- Kids enjoy designing and sharing their own games
- Easy for young children to use
Common complaints
- Glitches in Splash Clash
- AI opponents in place of real players
- Concerns about community behavior
Sources: apps.apple.com · id923441570
codeSpark family reviews
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codeSpark FAQs
What age is codeSpark for?
codeSpark is built for kids ages 3 to 10. Its wordless interface means preschoolers who can't read yet can still play.
How much does codeSpark cost?
As of October 2026, the App Store lists codeSpark Academy Enrollment options from $7.99 to $99.99, depending on plan length and offer. Begin's own page does not publish a price, so check the app before your 7-day trial ends.
Is codeSpark free?
There is a 7-day free trial and a limited free option through Hour of Code activities. Full access requires a membership. Independent reviews report free access for eligible teachers and librarians in North America.
Who makes codeSpark now?
codeSpark is now part of Begin, the company behind other early-learning products. codespark.com redirects to Begin's site, and the App Store lists HomerLearning, Inc. as the seller.
Is codeSpark the same as codeSpark Academy?
Yes. The app was long called codeSpark Academy with the Foos; it now appears as codeSpark - Coding for Kids in the App Store.
How do I cancel codeSpark?
Cancel from your account at any time. If you subscribed in the App Store or Google Play, cancel in that store's subscription settings before renewal.
Sources and last checked
Checked 2026-10-13 against these sources: