Hopscotch’s “Shark Tank” Journey and the Rise of Kid-Friendly Coding
Samantha John, the co-founder of Hopscotch, a learn-to-code application, appeared on season 12 of “Shark Tank” in 2021, seeking $400,000 for a 4% stake in her company. While a deal of $550,000 for 11% was initially reached with Mark Cuban, it ultimately wasn’t finalized.
Despite the deal falling through, Hopscotch experienced a significant surge in visibility and app downloads – a 500% increase in the years following the episode. This highlights a key takeaway from “Shark Tank”: exposure can be as valuable as investment, as demonstrated by the success of other apps like CoinOut.
Why Teach Kids to Code? The Enduring Relevance of Foundational Skills
Samantha John’s vision for Hopscotch stemmed from a belief that coding is an essential skill for young people, opening future career paths. This conviction remains relevant even with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in coding. Instances of AI refusing to code and suggesting users learn the skill themselves underscore the importance of foundational understanding.
Hopscotch’s approach focuses on making coding accessible through a visual programming language, designed for touchscreen devices and children aged eight to twelve. This contrasts with traditional lines of code, offering a more intuitive entry point.
Hopscotch Today: Growth, Independence, and a Thriving Community
As of February 2026, Hopscotch boasts over 24 million downloads from the Apple App Store, with users having created more than 36 million games. The app maintains a 4.5-star rating based on over 15,000 reviews and has received accolades from publications like Parent Magazine and Children’s Technology Review.
The company has too garnered coverage in major news outlets, including The Modern York Times and The Wall Street Journal. Hopscotch has transitioned from a venture capital-funded company to operating as a fully independent entity.
The Hopscotch website serves as a platform for users to share their creations and provides resources for educators interested in incorporating the app into their classrooms.
The Future of Kid-Focused Tech Education
Beyond Coding: Cultivating Digital Literacy
Hopscotch’s success points to a broader trend: the growing demand for accessible and engaging tech education for children. While coding remains a core skill, the future of this field will likely emphasize broader digital literacy – encompassing data analysis, cybersecurity awareness, and responsible technology use.
The Role of Visual Programming Languages
Visual programming languages, like the one used in Hopscotch, are likely to become increasingly prevalent as entry points to coding. They lower the barrier to entry, making it easier for young learners to grasp fundamental concepts without getting bogged down in syntax.
Independent Platforms and Community-Driven Learning
Hopscotch’s transition to an independent company suggests a potential shift towards more self-sustaining, community-driven learning platforms. This model allows for greater flexibility and responsiveness to user needs, fostering a more personalized learning experience.
FAQ
What is Hopscotch?
Hopscotch is a learn-to-code application designed for children, using a visual programming language.
Did Samantha John get a deal on “Shark Tank”?
A deal was initially reached, but it was not finalized.
How many downloads does Hopscotch have?
As of February 2026, Hopscotch has over 24 million downloads.
