Arduino for Beginners: Robotics and Electronics in Tinkercad (24 Classes)

This 24-class course introduces kids to Arduino coding, basic electronics, and creative problem solving using Tinkercad Circuits (no physical hardware required). Each lesson focuses on a single hands-on project so students see working results while learning core concepts: writing Arduino sketches (setup() and loop()), digital and analog I/O, sensors, PWM, timing, sound, and motor control. Projects progress from simple LED blinkers, buttons, and traffic lights to interactive games, plant and weather monitoring, servo and motor control, and an obstacle-avoiding robot simulated in Tinkercad. Students practice reading sensor values (light, temperature, distance, moisture), using conditionals and arrays, generating random values, and measuring time with millis() to build responsive systems. Lessons emphasize step-by-step coding, circuit simulation, debugging, and design thinking so learners gain confidence designing their own gadgets. The course culminates in a self-directed final invention where students combine sensors, actuators, and code to solve a real problem or build a creative device. The course is designed for ages 10-13 (grades 5-7) and requires only a computer and internet access. An optional Arduino starter kit is recommended for families who want to replicate projects on real hardware, but every lesson can be completed using Tinkercad simulations.