Digital Skills for Families

Knowledge of computer science and coding languages is essential to the jobs of the future. In recognition of this, Virginia was the first state in the nation to require computer science and computational thinking be taught at all levels, K-12.  Yet when it comes to these topics, it can be overwhelming for parents and caregivers to determine where or how to start showing support for a child’s interests, skills, and future career planning. 

This page was created to serve as that starting point. Here, you can find resources for families who want to actively support a child’s computer-science learning, while gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for that learning. These resources are made possible through CodeVA, a partner of the SOVA Innovation Hub.

Activities

Eureka Workshop Classes and Summer Camps

Eureka Workshop, which is the student programming arm of CodeVA, offers virtual after-school classes and summer camps for early elementary (1st and 2nd grade), upper elementary (3rd, 4th, and 5th grade) and middle school (6th, 7th, and 8th grade) students. Financial assistance is available to ensure all students can participate.

CS Snail Mail

In a time when screen overload is a concern, CodeVA has launched Project Snail Mail. Signup to receive an activity kit in the mail to do at home with your child. Kits include instructions for games you can play at home, a craft or STEAM activity, a coloring page and additional STEAM resources for parents and students!

Family Code Night

At Family Code Nights, parents/guardians and students pair up to do their first hour of coding together! If your child is in elementary school, you can talk to the school leadership about hosting a Family Code Night. Events can be held virtually. 

Coding Resources

These resources are recommended for students who are interested in learning computer science and programming. If you have any questions, or would like to inform us of other resources, email info@codevirginia.org.