Tinkerblocks

A bright, colourful coding app for kids. $4.49 | URBNPOCKETS.COM

Every time a new coding app for kids gets released, we wonder if this will be the one to really get them engaged. TinkerBlocks looks the part, with its colorful, simple layout and tools to let kids build basic programs.

At first we thought we’d hit ‘Info’ to get acquainted, via a mini tutorial maybe. But no, this displays an adult-led description of the app. We also thought the thumbnails at the top were example programs, but they were IAPs (with a pretty weak maths question as security). There are basic starter projects: tap one to see the bare bones, or use the stylus icon to edit. You can add input/output controls, control features, an impressive set of sensors and a few effects. If the icons are not obvious, you can press one to find out what it does, then drag one over to the list of actions. It’s easy to change order using drag-and-drop, and easy to delete an action by dragging it until the trash can appears.

We found the image tool a little frustrating. On our iPhone, the app couldn’t access our Camera Roll despite having permission; then it could access it but reported “an issue” with every image. We experienced a similar working/not working issue with face detection.

There’s definitely a learning curve to the app, and parents will almost definitely have to assist young ‘developers’. Once comfortable with the concept, though, the results should keep your kids engaged. And it’s easy for them to share their creations — maybe a bit too easy. As with the IAPs, the restriction is just a simple maths question. There’s a lot to take in, but also a lot on offer once your little coders get the hang of things.