I’m talking with Jessica DeMarco about outside-of-the-box thinking to promote and teach social skills while enriching students’ lives. Project Social Code is a unique program that uses block coding to help children develop teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills while exploring STEM. Funded by a $2.5 million, five-year grant, it ensures that kids of all abilities, including those with disabilities who are often excluded from traditional STEM programs, have the opportunity to engage, learn, and grow.

Block coding provides a visual, user-friendly way for students to collaborate, think critically, and express creativity. Through structured lesson plans designed for every skill level, students practice parallel play, teamwork, and problem-solving while building confidence in a fun and supportive environment. Teachers receive free resources, professional development, and in-class demos to integrate coding into their classrooms effortlessly.

At the heart of the program is DASH, a special robot (there’s a virtual version too) that students bring to life through their own coding. DASH moves, makes sounds, and responds to their commands, making coding an interactive, hands-on experience that reinforces both technical and social skills.

Project Social Code is more than just a STEM program—it’s an opportunity for every child to develop essential life skills, build new interests, and be part of an inclusive learning experience. And best of all, it’s free. Learn more and access resources at Project Social Code’s website.

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What’s Inside:

• What is Project Social Code?
• How can you use block coding to work on social skills?
• Free information, resources, and tools.

Mentioned In This Episode:

Project Social Code
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