IE 11 Not Supported

For optimal browsing, we recommend Chrome, Firefox or Safari browsers.

How has Google put Santa’s elves to work?

Answer: Teaching kids to code in Google’s Santa Tracker.

Google’s Santa Tracker, which turns 15 this year, has done away with its usual approach of one new activity per day counting down to Christmas. This year, all 24 activities are available from the beginning of December through Christmas Day. They come in three categories: Learn, play and watch.

Among the learning elements is Code Lab, where users learn coding basics in order to help the elves navigate the forest to pick up dropped presents. There are also downloadable lesson plans for teachers that include some of the learning elements on the Tracker, like coding and holiday traditions around the world. 

Kate is a senior copy editor in Northern California. She holds a bachelor's degree in English with a minor in professional writing from the University of California, Davis.