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Scratch
Scratch · founded 2003
What it is
Scratch is a programming platform for creating and sharing interactive stories, games, and animations. Its project-based approach aims to help young people think creatively, reason systematically, and collaborate. Scratch is designed especially for ages 8 to 16, though people of all ages use it. The platform is free, and the Scratch app can also be used offline; projects created in the app offline are not accessible by Scratch. Download information lists Windows 10+, macOS 10.13+, ChromeOS, and Android tablets running Android 6.0+. The platform is also available on the web and on Android, macOS, and Windows. Extensions add programming blocks that connect projects to hardware devices or web services. Scratch is a project of the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab. The project says it is used in more than 150 countries and available in more than 40 languages. Optional memberships offer early or exclusive content, members-only tutorials, merchandise, and store discounts: Annual Membership is $35 a year and Lifetime Membership is $150, paid once. Scratch also advises community members to keep personal information private and report content that violates its guidelines.
For and against
For
- Free platform for creating and sharing projects
- App can be used offline
- Extensions connect projects to devices or web services
- Available on web and listed desktop and mobile platforms
Against
- Offline-created projects are not accessible by Scratch
- Android app download is listed for tablets
- Memberships cost $35 a year or $150, paid once
The verdict
Scratch offers a free way to create and share interactive projects, with an offline app and extensions for hardware or web services. Note that projects made offline are not accessible by Scratch.
Who it suits
Scratch is designed especially for young people ages 8 to 16, and is also used by people of all ages. It may suit learners who want to make and share interactive projects or connect projects to devices and web services through extensions.
Plans and prices
Scratch platform
Free digital platform for creating and sharing projects
Read 30 Sep 2026 · scratch.mit.edu
Annual Membership
Early and exclusive content · members-only tutorials · merchandise and discounts
Read 30 Sep 2026 · scratchfoundation.org
Lifetime Membership
Early and exclusive content · members-only tutorials · merchandise and discounts
Read 30 Sep 2026 · scratchfoundation.org
On the record
- Audience
- Scratch is designed especially for ages 8 to 16, and is also used by people of all ages.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
- Community safety
- Scratch asks community members to keep personal information private and report content that violates its community guidelines.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
- Download platforms
- The Scratch app download information lists Windows 10+, macOS 10.13+, ChromeOS, and Android tablets running Android 6.0+.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
- Extensions
- Scratch extensions add blocks that connect projects to hardware devices or web services.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
- Global reach
- Scratch says it is used in more than 150 countries and is available in more than 40 languages.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
- Learning goals
- Scratch aims to help young people think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
- Membership benefits
- Scratch Membership offers early or exclusive content, including new sprites, members-only tutorials, merchandise, and store discounts.scratchfoundation.org · read 30 Sep 2026
- Offline use
- The Scratch app can be used offline, and projects made in it are not accessible by Scratch.mitscratch.freshdesk.com · read 30 Sep 2026
- Organization
- Scratch is a project of the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
- Privacy
- Scratch says it does not sell or rent account information, and limits information collected during signup and made public on the website.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
- Privacy limitation
- Scratch states that no security system is impenetrable and it cannot completely guarantee database security or prevent interception during internet transmission.mitscratch.freshdesk.com · read 30 Sep 2026
- Purpose
- Scratch lets users program interactive stories, games, and animations and share creations in its online community.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
- Security
- Scratch says it uses administrative, physical, and technical safeguards, including SSL/TLS for data transfers and restricted access to its servers.mitscratch.freshdesk.com · read 30 Sep 2026
- Support
- Parents can contact Scratch staff through the Contact Us link and ask questions in the discussion forums.scratch.mit.edu · read 30 Sep 2026
