What is The Playcode Method?
A practical, screen-free learning approach that develop critical thinking, creativity and confidence in Grades R-3.
Building thinking skills today. Creating problem-solvers for tomorrow.
Why Screen-Free?
Young children don't need to start their coding journey behind a screen.
In the Foundation Phase, coding concepts can be explored through movement, patterns, games, instructions, routes, building and problem-solving. This approach is often referred to as unplugged coding.
The Playcode Method allows learners to experience a concept physically first, helping them understand the thinking behind the activity rather than simply following instructions on a device.
How The Playcode Method works
1. Experience
Learn through physical play
Learners experience the concept through movement, games, building, patterns and practical activities.
2. Understand
Make the thinking visible
Through guided discussion and questioning, the educator helps learners recognise the pattern, sequence, algorithm or problem-solving process behind the activity.
3. Reinforce
Apply it in the workbook
A structured workbook activity reinforces the concept and gives learners another opportunity to apply their thinking.
What children are actually learning
Grade R
- Patterns and sequences
- Direction and movement
- Sorting and classifying
- Following and giving simple instructions
Grade 1
- Basic algorithms
- Position and location
- Digital awareness
- Early problem-solving
- Simple robotics concepts
Grade 2
- Turns and routes
- More complex algorithms
- Debugging and evaluation
- Pattern translation
- Robotic artefact design
Grade 3
- Conditional thinking
- Coordinates and grids
- Advanced algorithms
- Evaluation and problem solving
- Robotic systems and desing
Frequently asked questions
What is screen-free coding?
Screen-free coding teaches the thinking skills behind coding without requiring children to use a computer or tablet. Learners explore concepts such as patterns, sequencing, algorithms, directions and problem-solving through movement, games, physical activities and hands-on learning. At Playcode Academy, these practical experiences are then reinforced through structured workbook activities.
Is screen-free coding the same as unplugged coding?
Yes. The terms screen-free coding and unplugged coding are commonly used to describe learning coding concepts without relying on computers or digital devices. Playcode Academy uses the term screen-free because it clearly describes our practical, play-based approach for young learners, while unplugged coding is also widely used in education.
Can children learn coding without a computer?
Absolutely. Especially in the Foundation Phase, children can develop many of the fundamental thinking skills required for coding without writing computer code. They can create and follow algorithms, recognise patterns, sequence instructions, navigate routes, solve problems and identify and correct errors through practical activities. The focus is first on learning how to think, rather than how to operate a device.
What is computational thinking?
Computational thinking is a way of approaching and solving problems logically. It involves recognising patterns, breaking problems into manageable parts, developing step-by-step solutions, testing those solutions and correcting mistakes when necessary. Children can develop computational thinking long before they begin programming on a computer — and these thinking skills are useful far beyond Coding & Robotics.
Do I need coding experience to teach or facilitate this?
No tech experience needed! You do not need to be a programmer or have previous coding experience to use the Playcode Academy programme. The teacher guides provide detailed lesson plans and practical guidance to help teachers and homeschool parents understand the concepts, prepare the activities and confidently guide learners through each lesson.
Is the Playcode Academy program CAPS-aligned?
Yes. Playcode Academy's Foundation Phase programmes are designed to align with the CAPS Coding & Robotics curriculum for Grades R–3. The learner activities and detailed lesson plans are structured to develop the relevant curriculum concepts and competencies while keeping implementation practical and age appropriate.
How much time is needed for each week's lesson?
We've done the planning for you! Each lesson plan is fully worked out — you simply need to familiarise yourself with the content. Grades R–2 require around 45 minutes per week, and Grade 3 requires 2 hours per week, as prescribed by the CAPS curriculum. Grades R-2 includes 40 structured lesson plans for the year, and Grade 3 include 80 lesson plans for the year.