Python for Kids: A Playful Introduction to Programming book cover

Python for Kids

A Playful Introduction to Programming

Jason R. Briggs
4.16(576 Reviews)

Overview of Python for Kids

Unlock coding magic with "Python for Kids" - the colorful guide turning children into programmers across Windows, Mac, and Raspberry Pi. Even GeekDad's Roy Wood admits it's perfect "regardless of age." Start creating games while secretly mastering real computer science!

Key Themes in Python for Kids

  • computational thinking
  • visual programming
  • interactive coding
  • game development basics
  • turtle graphics

Quotes from Python for Kids

  • Python for Kids isn't just another programming book-it's a gateway drug.

  • Python uses clean, straightforward code that almost reads like English.

  • It's like having a patient teacher who never tires of your questions.

  • Python's "batteries included" philosophy means it comes packed with powerful tools.

  • The computer is no longer just a tool...it's now a canvas for your own creations.

Characters in Python for Kids

  • Jason R. BriggsAuthor of the book and programming educator
  • Melinda GatesTech luminary who recommended the book
  • Brian KernighanProgrammer who originated the Hello World tradition

About the Author

About the Author of Python for Kids

Jason R. Briggs, author of the bestselling guide Python for Kids: A Playful Introduction to Programming, is a programmer and educator renowned for demystifying coding for young learners.

Born in New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay region and now based in England, Briggs began programming at age eight on a TRS-80, sparking a lifelong passion for accessible technology education. His professional background includes roles at O’Reilly & Associates, HSBC Investment Bank, and UBS London, blending technical expertise with a knack for clear instruction.

Python for Kids—praised for its humorous examples, hands-on projects, and vibrant visuals—reflects his belief that programming should be engaging and approachable. The book has been translated into over a dozen languages, including Japanese, Korean, and Russian, with its free early edition surpassing 50,000 downloads.

Briggs also authored Snake Wrangling for Kids, further cementing his role as a pioneer in youth-focused STEM resources. He shares insights on coding and education through his personal blog, leveraging decades of experience to inspire the next generation of developers.

Download Summary of Python for Kids

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"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
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comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
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star
star
star
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star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
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comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
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4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
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"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
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201
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16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
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"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
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37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
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"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
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star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
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star
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star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
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comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
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