How to begin your Code Club session

Welcome to your Code Club session! The first few minutes of any session are a perfect chance to get everyone settled and ready for some fun. By using a few simple activities, you can create a great atmosphere where every club member feels comfortable and excited to start coding.

To ensure everything runs smoothly and safely, be sure to use a “session checklist” to plan what you need to do before, during, and after each session.

Activities for your first session

Some activities are best for your very first session. These are about setting up a great environment for the rest of your Code Club’s journey.

Work together to create a session routine

Setting up a positive and productive Code Club starts with involving your young creators in making the rules. This is a great icebreaker that gives them a sense of ownership. During this first session, spend about ten minutes asking the kids for their ideas on how the club should run. You can then use our “Club rules” template or let them get creative by drawing their own posters to display the rules. This helps create a fun, safe space where everyone can learn and thrive.

Discuss how to help each other

The best Code Clubs are built on a foundation of mutual support. At the start of a session, take a moment to set some ground rules on how to help each other. Talk about what to do when you get stuck. You can use the motto “Ask three, then me” to encourage young people to try to solve problems on their own before asking a mentor. Also, discuss how to give helpful feedback when testing each other’s projects. This creates a supportive and collaborative environment where everyone can do their best.

Activities for any session

These activities are great for kicking off any regular Code Club session, once you have your initial club rules and routine in place.

Use an icebreaker

An icebreaker is a quick, 15-minute activity. It’s a great way to start your Code Club session, helping everyone get to know each other and switch their focus from other activities. We suggest using an “unplugged” activity” — one that doesn’t require a computer — to help them transition.

Showcase a finished project

If your club is all working on the same project, a great way to start is by showing your creators the finished product they’ll be building. Our projects include a completed example just for this purpose, but you can also show one you made yourself. Seeing the final result gives creators a clear goal and can even spark ideas for how they can make the project their own.

Demonstrate a tricky section of code

Before the session, look for a part of the project that might be tricky for your creators. Taking a few minutes to show them a new idea — like how to layer code blocks or use a specific function — can be very helpful. This type of short demonstration gives creators the confidence to work more independently.

Explore projects together

Before a session, think about the projects your club will work on. The Code Club projects page has been updated with a fresh, new look and is filled with projects on a variety of topics, like space, art, and games. You can explore these together with your club to find the perfect projects for your group.

Explore the Code Club Leaders’ guide for more tips and information on getting your sessions up and running smoothly.