Ten boy on computer doing JavaScript and P5

Coding Games: JavaScript and P5

Price: Starting at $399
Age: 10 - 12
Skill Level: Beginner–Advanced

About This Course

JavaScript is the backbone of the internet and an advanced language in its own right. It's extensively supported to help creators build whatever they can imagine on the web. From front-end to back-end, there's no more versatile language. Whether you're starting off tweaking websites and HTML, inserting your own games and features, or working on the full stack for your own personal project, JavaScript has you covered. Build amazing websites and fun, interactive games, then share them online.

Tools: JavaScript, P5.js

Topics Covered

Use programming logic to create game mechanics
Build games from start to finish
Practice game design principles with engaging activities

Sample Schedule

In this course, students will develop their JavaScript programming skills and design game mechanics through a combination of interactive, instructor-led lessons, collaboration, and independent project work.

Here’s a sample of what a week in the course could look like! Please keep in mind that students will progress at varying paces; this is a general outline of the key material and overall student experience.

Monday

Students will learn the basics of JavaScript, including an introduction to variables, math operators, and the p5 Web Editor, and start exploring game design techniques.

Tuesday

Building upon the fundamentals, students will practice JavaScript programming skills through conditional statements, functions, and the p5.play library. Then, they’ll start planning a top-down shooter game by creating art assets and graphics.

Wednesday

To add complexity to their games, students will add sprites and art assets to the game using p5 functions. Then, they will learn to program game mechanics including 2D player movements, boundaries, projectiles, and obstacles.

Thursday

Next, students will program additional layers of engagement by incorporating features like collision detection, movement speed, and game over conditions.

Friday

To complete the week, students will refine their game features, add score, and finalize their personal projects.

Course Formats

Virtual Camp

Ideal for kids and teens who thrive in a high-energy, team-oriented environment! Meeting Monday through Friday, campers spend 2 hours together with their peers and instructors and 2 hours working independently on their project. Not your average online learning, our virtual camps include the games and challenges that make iD Tech camps core memory makers.

Private Lessons

Ideal for kids and teens who thrive in a focused, 1-on-1 setting, need flexible scheduling, or both! Your child will unlock new skills at their own pace, led by an experienced mentor who is dedicated to their success. These 8, one-hour lessons feature customized curriculum and are available to be scheduled 24/7.

Portfolio-Boosting Transcript

At the conclusion of your child's course, they will receive an official iD Tech transcript outlining the skills they learned over the course of the week.

Learn from the best.

Passion for tech. Unmatched expertise. Personality that brings out the absolute best in your child. With 23 years of experience, we know there's no replacement for the best teacher. It's no surprise that iconic companies like Google, EA, Microsoft, and Disney hire the same talent we do. Our iD Certified instructors possess the whole package of skills that top employers seek.

100% USA-based, adult instructors
Recruited from top universities like Stanford, Caltech, and NYU
Rigorous background and reference checks
Robust training programs and certification
Adherence to American Camp Association accredited guidelines

Instructor Highlights

Chris M.

Software Engineer
at Google

Instructor Highlights

Chris M.

Software Engineer
at Google

“My time as an iD instructor was really formative. I stayed with STEM in college as a Computer Science and Electrical Engineering major, and now I’m working at Google in Chicago. If you find yourself thinking about STEM-related things outside of school, follow that passion. Major in it. Keep pursuing it.”

Instructor Highlights

Aspen C.

Associate Designer
at Bethesda Softworks

Instructor Highlights

Aspen C.

Associate Designer
at Bethesda Softworks

“The spirit of innovation and creativity I felt around my students while teaching Unity led me toward my career as a professional game designer. My time at iD Tech taught me that no dream is too big, and that brilliant ideas can come from anywhere.”

Instructor Highlights

Brian M.

Software Engineer
at Disney

Instructor Highlights

Brian M.

Software Engineer
at Disney

“The opportunity to create an environment of collaboration, inclusion, and creativity was a truly special experience. The skills I honed while teaching at iD Tech led me to my software engineering roles at ESPN and the Walt Disney Company.”

Select your online format

Virtual Camp

Meets daily for 2 hours Monday-Friday

Private Lessons $449

8 lessons on your schedule

Get started

Frequently Asked Questions

What is JavaScript?

Like Python and other great coding languages for kids, JavaScript is an excellent option for those wanting to learn more about programming. If you think back to the last time you clicked through an interactive webpage or game - that is, one that responded on-screen to your button clicks, mouse drags, and more - that was JavaScript in action. While HTML forms the body of a webpage, JavaScript can be thought of as the brains of the operation.

Why should my child learn JavaScript?

If your child has ever dreamed of creating their own website or creating their own video game: they don’t have to choose! This course will help kids build strong JavaScript and HTML skills, must-haves for web developers and game designers alike. Learn more about JavaScript and web design for kids.

What college and career opportunities can this course lead to?

Not only are web developers and game designers in high demand from big-name companies, freelancing and creating your own schedule is a very viable option for this skillset. The flexibility of freelance and the in-demand nature of coding skills is a combination that opens a lot of doors for kids’ future in STEM!

Is this course suitable for all skill levels?

Yes, this course is designed for beginner to advanced students. Our small class size ensures that each student receives individual attention and has the freedom to learn at their own pace.

What is the online camp experience like?

While we are proud to offer world-class experiences on many of the world’s most prestigious university campuses, we also recognize that many families need the flexibility of quality virtual learning! It’s with these families in mind that we’ve adapted the core elements of our flagship camps to an online format with our Virtual Tech Camps.

Like our on-campus programs, Virtual Tech Camps feature structured small-group sessions led by expert instructors. Each week includes live teaching of our signature, cutting-edge curriculum, plus peer collaboration, social time, and independent project work. To complete the experience, our Virtual Tech Camps incorporate all the magic of summer camp including games, challenges, and legendary iD traditions!

What are the technical requirements for this online course?

To run this online course with iD Tech, students will need a Mac, Windows, or Chromebook computer, a webcam, and a stable internet connection with access to Zoom video conferencing. Any course-specific installation requirements will be communicated after registration.