Global learning, development and children play company Mattel announced their plan to introduce 10 million kids to coding by 2020 through expansion of their partnership with Tynker, a computing platform used by one in three U.S. schools. Seven new Barbie coding lessons are scheduled for release this year that will teach girls entry-level programming and computer science. This is the first of a number of initiatives the partners have planned.
The partnership between Mattel and Tynker to promote coding already has already reached nearly 4 million children since its launch in 2015 with themed programming experiences. In addition to seven modules, as part of a dedicated Barbie Careers Programming Experience, Mattel and Tynker host the “Mattel Code-A-Thon and Teacher Outreach” event that encourages students to participate in programming, while providing teachers with tools to promote coding content in the classroom.
“For close to 75 years, Mattel has taken a visionary approach to advancing play for kids around the world, most recently promoting computer programming and other STEM skills alongside iconic brands like Barbie, Hot Wheels and Monster High,” said Tynker CEO and co-founder Krishna Vedati. “We are very excited by this expanded partnership and the ambitious—but achievable—goal of teaching 10 million kids to learn to code by 2020 using Mattel brands.”
Even before this partnership, Mattel promoted learning and development in children by leveraging its’ popular consumer brands and characters globally. Operating in 40 countries and over 150 nations, Mattel also collaborates with other entertainment and technology companies for other similar innovative products, concepts, and designs.
