On May 16, 2009, learn more about Scratch, the free programming tool for kids.

It demonstrates proper usage of the Scratch application, but it never puts up walls and limits kids from exploring and tweaking and even breaking their programs.

Patrice Gans, a technology teacher and library-media specialist in Connecticut, reviews Super Scratch Programming Adventure (No Starch Press, 2012).

MIT's Media Lab is gearing up for Scratch Day 2009, to introduce new people to their programming language for kids.

Scratch Jr was inspired by the popular Scratch programming language for older kids. Developers say they redesigned the interface and programming language to make it appropriate for younger children.

Do we need a new beginning programming language? My answer is “yes”, and the more programming languages and tools we have to introduce programming to kids, adults and everyone else, the better.

In addition to programming, Scratch also lets kids upload and share their projects through an online community at the Scratch website.