The Game Dev Series
Mindful Game Making
Ages 7 - 11
Sign UpIn this creative coding series, young coders learn to build their own digital games using MakeCode Arcade’s block-based platform while exploring the basics of game logic, animation, and interactivity. Each lab introduces a new element of game design, including characters, sound, visual effects, or level building, while weaving in developmentally appropriate mindfulness practices to support attention, emotion regulation, and self-awareness. By pairing playful challenges with reflective practices, students discover how focused coding and inner calm can grow side by side. No prior coding experience is needed.
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In this Series:
Lab 1
Breathe & Catch
In the "Breath & Catch" lab, we explore how mindful breathing can support focus while learning the basics of game design. We create a simple catching game using movement controls and scoring to discover how coding and calm can go hand in hand.
> Mindfulness Focus
Breath awareness as a foundation for calm and attention.
> Coding Focus
Introduction to sprites and movement using controller inputs.
> Objectives
Students create a sprite character that moves left and right to catch falling "breath orbs," using button inputs. The game encourages timing actions with breathing and scoring points for focus and rhythm.
Lab 2
Thought Garden
In the "Thought Garden", we learn to notice our thoughts and choose which ones to keep through a game that uses logic and decision-making. As we code responses to different types of thoughts, we practice awareness, sound design, and conditional thinking.
> Mindfulness Focus
Letting go of thoughts
> Coding Focus
Sprite overlap and conditional logic
> Objectives
Students create a garden where thoughts grow as plants. The player chooses which ones to “water” (nurture) or “weed” (let go), with different sounds and responses based on the choice.
Lab 3
Focus Fireflies
This lab helps strengthening attention and patience as we create a game where we spot and catch blinking lights. We use animation, timing, and loops to bring the game to life, while practicing the power of noticing small details.
> Mindfulness Focus
Sustained attention and noticing
> Coding Focus
Timed events, animation and loops
> Objectives
Students build a game where blinking fireflies appear and disappear on a dark background. Players catch the fireflies by moving toward them before they vanish, encouraging focused attention and timing.
Lab 4
Calm Quest
The "Calm Quest" is a level-based adventure that encourages emotional resilience and steady progress. By building maps, obstacles, and calming messages, we learn how to stay grounded through challenges—both in games and in ourselves.
> Mindfulness Focus
Creative storytelling and calm reflection
> Coding Focus
Variables, randomness, and conditional logic
> Objectives
Students design a maze or peaceful world using tilemaps. The game includes calming messages, obstacles, and a clear goal (reaching a calm space). Dialog boxes and level design reinforce staying calm under pressure.