Some interesting programming tools for kids

I downloaded the latest Portable Python versions today.  Interestingly, Portable Python 2.7 lets you use the Python 3 syntax for the print statement.  It doesn't work perfectly, but at least it doesn't crash your program.  I also found a new Pygame textbook on the Pygame site.  Programming Arcade Games with Python and Pygame could be used as a textbook for an intro Python course (click here).  It's not free like Al Sweigart's Pygame books, but the website version is free.

One of the bugs I've been finding with the Scratch 2.0 offline editor is that the sprites get 'off-centre' and this can make it look like your program isn't working properly (x,y coordinates seem off).  This is a persistent, unpredictable bug in this beta software.  A few 10 year olds are finding Scratch more fun than Lego Mindstorms EV3. They are quite interested in how many views their Scratch projects have had.  I also hear things like "can you remix this on my computer".  Scratch is super-cool.   One of them was even looking into Pygame for a little.  This great, free resource has Scratch tutorials that truly engage 10 year olds!  Here is the Space Invaders project made from a tutorial from TeachICT.com.  I like using Creative Commons audio clips from SoundBible.com in my Scratch Projects.

Scratch 2.0 Offline Editor Bug - Sprite is off-centre