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I recently introduced three 5th grade classes to the concept of vibe coding, and it’s been something special to watch. I started with a “Lesson Lib” (my take on a Mad Lib using my own content) about vibe coding. I explained that I built it myself with AI, so it works exactly how I want, including revealing the original words. Then I showed a couple of other simple apps. Next, I modeled the process by vibe coding an on-task timer for project work. We brainstormed ways to personalize it, like adding a list of tasks with individual timers and even a quick rating system to track progress over time. Before building, we talked through a few key moves: Turn on Canvas mode so you can preview the app Ask for an HTML app (since we’ll publish with Google Sites) Be clear in your prompt End with: “Ask me questions before you build.”
That last one really helps Google Gemini clarify details before jumping in. We also talked about iteration. The first version is the worst version, so keep refining. When I turned them loose to build their own timers, the creativity took off. One student went with a “fancy dinner” theme, designing a gold-on-black timer. The “time’s up” sound wasn’t fancy enough, so he had Gemini switch it to violins. I’ve taught tech to kids for years, and vibe coding lights up their faces and their brains in ways I haven’t seen before. I checked in with them the next day, and a bunch of students had already gone home and built their own apps. They couldn’t wait to tell me what they made and what they want to build next. I also made posters for the classroom so students can easily refer to the steps for building in Gemini and publishing and updating in Google Sites.
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