Coding Becomes an Adventure
SteamPop Code Missions
In this four-session live online mission, young creators explore coding and physical computing with the BBC micro:bit. They’ll build a digital character, a reaction challenge, and a motion-controlled game—then use their new skills to transform recycled cardboard into a one-of-a-kind interactive pet.
Meet Mission 01: Digital Pet Inventor
Code, play, and bring your own interactive pet to life!
During this four-session online mission, young creators will explore coding and physical computing using the BBC micro:bit board. Physical computing brings code into the real world by allowing children to create projects that respond to touch, buttons, sound, and movement.
Children will apply these concepts while creating a digital character, a reaction challenge, and a motion-controlled game. In the final session, they will use their new skills to design an animal from recycled cardboard and transform it into a personalized interactive pet.
Children will learn through experimentation, play, and hands-on invention.
No previous coding experience required.
The
Four-Session
Journey
Session 1
Create a digital pet
Create a character on the micro:bit’s LED screen and program it with animated expressions, sounds, and reactions using buttons, touch, and movement.
Session 2
Reaction challenge
Program the micro:bit to wait for a random signal, then test how quickly you can respond. Add timing, scores, sounds, and fun challenges.
Session 3
Motion-controlled game
Use the micro:bit’s motion sensor to control an LED player by tilting the device. Catch objects, avoid obstacles, and keep score.
Session 4
Invent your own pet
Choose an animal you love and create its body using recycled cardboard and craft materials. Add the micro:bit, then customize your pet with expressions, sounds, reactions, and interactive features learned throughout the mission.
By the end of the course, every young creator will have completed three coding projects and created a one-of-a-kind interactive pet to keep.
Your SteamPop Pet Inventor Kit
Every participant receives a complete kit containing:
- BBC micro:bit V2
- USB cable
- Battery holder
- Wooden pet holder
- SteamPop mission workbook
- Coding and debugging activities
- Customization supplies
- Mission certificate
The kit is included in the registration price and belongs to the child. The same micro:bit can also be reused for future SteamPop Code Missions.
Young creators will learn
Events and sequences
Block-based programming
LED animations
Variables and conditions
Sensors and interactive inputs
Testing and debugging
Creative problem-solving
Project planning and presentation
Technology Requirements
A laptop or Chromebook with a USB port
Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge
A reliable internet connection
Access to the selected live-class platform
A brief technology-check session will be offered before the first class to help families connect the micro:bit and prepare for the mission.
Meet The Instructor
Dana Abdel Khalek is a biomedical engineer, project manager, and experienced youth-program facilitator. She has designed and led hands-on workshops in coding, engineering, entrepreneurship, and creative problem-solving for young creators and teens.
Through SteamPop Code Missions, Dana combines technology, storytelling, and hands-on invention to make coding approachable, meaningful, and exciting for young learners.
MORE CODE MISSIONS ARE COMING
After completing Digital Pet Inventor, young creators can continue their coding journey through future themed adventures,
including:
Mission 02
Dinosaur Era
Mission 03
Galaxy Explorer