Coding is a 21st century life skill that enables youth to interact in new ways with the digital world as critical thinkers and problem solvers. Through the YouthCode program, Tech Journey provides computer science and related STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning and enrichment activities to help youth in elementary and middle school better understand the digital world they are inhabiting. Tech Journey partners with local youth services organizations or youth programs which benefit from the delivery of coding and robotics workshops, instructional classes, camps and ad-hoc events. The YouthCode program also enables employment or volunteer opportunities for older Tech Camp students to work as program assistants, gaining valuable leadership experience.

  • Coding and Robotics Camps

    #IGotSkills

    At YouthCode coding and robotics camps, students learn computer science basics while having loads of fun. Camps are typically instructor-led with hands-on project time for students to apply their new knowledge and skills. Camps can also include unplugged activities to keep participants active and give eyes time away from screens. Camps can be configured to meet the needs of the group being served. Contact us today to discuss a camp for your group.

  • Coding and Robotics Workshops

    Short and sweet

    Our 60 to 120 minute workshops intend to make technology accessible and inspire students through the introduction of coding or robotics. Workshops allow students to receive an introductory experience in a safe, supportive environment. Creating an animation in Scratch, coding a rock-paper-scissors robot, programming a robot to play soccer or completing an Hour of Code are just a few example workshops. Workshops can be customized to meet the needs of the participating group or organization. Contact us today to discuss more.

  • FIRST® LEGO® League

    For Inspiration and Recognition in Science and Technology

    The YouthCode program is privileged to help organize and, in many cases, sponsor FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL) teams for students in central Iowa. Each FLL team consists of up to ten students in grades 4 through 8 and is guided by two or more adult volunteer coaches. Each year teams research a global topic such as food safety, recycling, energy, water or space travel and are challenged to develop and present a problem and solution. Teams must also design, build and program a robot using LEGO SPIKE™ technology, then compete against other teams in tournaments on a table-top playing field. Contact us for more information about starting a FLL team.