What’s the best free way to teach coding to fourth- and fifth-graders?

p5.js is a nice next step after Scratch. Once students understand programming concepts with blocks, moving to JavaScript-based drawing and animation can introduce real code gradually while keeping the visual feedback they enjoy.

If you prefer text-based programming from the beginning, Python is a reasonable option, but it may require more support for this age group. Gamified tools, such as programming a robot to complete simple tasks, can make text-based concepts feel more approachable. I’d still start with short, visual projects rather than long tutorials.

PixelPad could be a good fit for grades 4–5. Scratch is often aimed at younger students, while PixelPad gives older elementary students a slightly more advanced environment without immediately throwing them into complicated syntax.

You could also mix coding with typing practice. Some typing courses include simple Python and JavaScript exercises. They probably aren’t enough to teach programming by themselves, but they can help students become comfortable using the keyboard while reinforcing basic coding ideas.

Scratch is probably the strongest starting point for this age group. The block-based interface lets students focus on logic, sequencing, loops, events, and problem-solving without getting stuck on syntax. They can make games and animations quickly, which helps keep motivation high.