Raspberry Pi Press published Unplugged Tots, a book by Hannah Hagon, in August 2025 in the UK. In the US, the book is available for pre-order here and now [affiliate link]. The subtitle of the book encourages us to “introduce children to the foundations of computer coding.” However, unplugged means no electronics. Well, how on earth can one teach computer coding without electronics? Through simple household items and activities parents and children can do together.
Unplugged Tots by Hannah Hagon
I had to privilege of interviewing Hannah last week about Unplugged Tots and you can watch the interview on my YouTube channel or listen to it on Spotify. Yes, I have started a complementary podcast version of this blog. Please bear with me as I work out the techy details.
Visit the Unplugged Tots website to learn more about the book and the process of teaching coding without screens.
How important is it for a child to learn how to code? In the age of AI, do you still consider coding as fundamental as, say, 10 years ago? Well, somebody has to make sure the AI wrote the correct code. So yes, youngsters should definitely learn coding skills, but are children not spending way too much time in front of a screen already?
This is why I am so excited about this book, Unplugged Tots. Through play-based activities, children age 2 1/2 to 8 can learn deconstruction, pattern recognition, algorithms, sequencing, and logic – all foundational, key concepts in coding. Computational thinking skills do not only apply on screens. Everyday life requires us to break down complex tasks into smaller steps or to recognize a pattern so that we can be more efficient.
Personally, I really like scripted curriculum. This book will tell you exactly what you could say in order to guide your child through the different activities.
Unplugged Tots Book Inside
Every chapter also offers Troubleshooting Tips because every child is different. Some will be bored, because they have more advanced skills. Others will be frustrated, because they are too young for a particular task. The book will tell you how to help children in each situation.
The set up of these activities takes about five minutes. The activity itself can go 15-45 minutes, depending on the child and situation. Do not overwhelm yourself with this book. Take baby steps. There will be some messes – that is part of teaching children about real life.
Once you have finished one activity, you could read about extension ideas in the book, but only offer them to the kids if they have mastered basic skills.
Here are some examples of activities: sorting and folding laundry, noticing patterns during a nature walk, putting together a jigsaw puzzle, planting a garden, icing cookies. As you can see, you do not need to spend extra money on special kits.
Order the book here on Amazon and you will have a tremendous Coding Curriculum for PreK-5th grade. [affiliate link] Thank you for your support!
