Code Academy

For teens and parents trying to learn programming, it’s easy to get lost in half‑finished YouTube playlists and dense books. Codecademy offers interactive, browser‑based courses where you write real code—Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS and more—and get instant feedback. Built by developers to lower the barrier to entry, the platform mixes bite‑size lessons, quizzes, and projects in structured paths. We love how easy it is to jump into a specific skill, like basic web design or data analysis, without installing anything. It’s ideal for motivated teens and young adults who can read directions independently and appreciate a clear sequence. The free tier is generous but locks some paths and projects behind a subscription, which may frustrate completionists, though you can still learn a lot without paying. Pro tip: set a modest daily streak goal—10–15 minutes—and have learners track their progress on a visible chart so coding becomes a habit, not a cram.