This month the Junior Writers Club took a trip to Code Ninjas in Wildwood, an outcome-based program that specializes in strengthening creativity skills, logical-thinking, and problem-solving skills. Skill levels are ranked in different colored belts, just like a martial arts dojo, as you learn and obtain more skills you receive more and more belts. Code Ninjas teach block-based coding, writing in Javascript, and develop their proficiency in C# (a platform used to program and develop video games and more).  

The Junior Writers got to experience coding with Code Ninjas firsthand. They used block-based coding, a visual approach to programming where you drag and drop pre-made code blocks, to make their own video game. By using these simple coding blocks, they were able to make their own game by customizing the characters, the game board, and the game functions. There was no pressure to keep up with others and everything was entirely their own creations. 

Tong created an unbeatable video game and tweaked his code in places where he thought needed improvement. Claire experimented with the sound board, and Chelsea and Alyssa made intricate game boards. By following a step-by-step tutorial all the writers were able to create simple games from scratch and play them! 

The lessons at Code Ninjas are self-paced, but students get one on one help if they are stuck. At Code Ninjas you not only get to code but you also get to explore different STEM activities and interact with new people. Once you reach a black belt level you have the capability to create your own apps and games. As students’ progress through their journey with Code Ninjas they will develop the skill to make creative solutions to complex problems. Even though every student might not become a programmer, Code Ninjas teach a sense of critical thinking and problem solving that can be used in the future. Being a part of the Code Ninjas community means opportunities to make new friends, explore ideas, and to develop coding skills.