EU Code Week at Vrtec Hrastnik

Vrtec Hrastnik has proudly participated in the EU Code Week initiative for several years, introducing children to the world of coding and logical thinking in a playful and age-appropriate way. The activities are part of our broader STEAM approach, where technology plays a key role in the holistic development of every child.

Through guided play, children are introduced to basic coding concepts – sequencing, repetition, directions, and problem-solving. We use a variety of educational robots (Bee-Bot, Cubetto, mTiny, Codey Rocky, and MouseBot), thematic mats, and challenges tailored to their age and developmental stage.

These activities promote collaboration, strategic thinking, spatial orientation, and a sense of joy and achievement. At the same time, children are developing digital competencies that will be essential in their future learning and everyday life.

As part of the Erasmus+ project The STEAM Challenge, we enhanced our coding activities using the 5E instructional model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate), encouraging active learning and allowing children to take on the role of young explorers shaping their own learning paths.