What Is Circuit Playground?

The Circuit Playground Express is a round programmable board that combines colorful lights, sound, buttons, touch pads, and environmental sensors. It includes:

Because the important components are already built in, learners can move quickly from screen-based code to projects that react to light, sound, touch, temperature, and motion.

Start Here

1. Open MakeCode for Adafruit
2. Explore the simulator and connect the Circuit Playground Express
3. Create your first NeoPixel light program
4. Download the UF2 file and test it on the board
5. Change colors, timing, sounds, and inputs

Core Learning Resources

Classroom Curriculum Resources

Code.org — Creating Apps with Devices

A complete grades 6–12 unit using App Lab and Circuit Playground to explore board events, LEDs, sensors, data collection, interactive art, and physical prototypes.

Adafruit Circuit Playground Express Guide

The official board guide covers the guided tour, setup, MakeCode, CircuitPython, loading programs, saving work, and troubleshooting.

Microsoft MakeCode for Adafruit

A browser-based blocks and JavaScript editor with a Circuit Playground simulator, guided tutorials, games, sensor projects, and classroom courses.

Professional & Advanced Resources

Code.org Teacher Professional Learning

A teacher-focused starting point with setup guidance, curriculum access, classroom kit information, and professional learning for teaching the Circuit Playground unit.

CircuitPython Quickstart

A fast path into text-based Python: install CircuitPython, edit code, add libraries, and learn from immediate feedback on the board.

Hands-On Innovation & STEM Integration

MakeCode Maker Course

A structured project course combining coding with cardboard, craft materials, copper tape, lights, sound, sensors, servos, games, and engineering challenges.

Skill Progression Path

How to Grow Your Skills

Beginner:

• Control NeoPixel colors and patterns
• Use buttons, the slide switch, and touch pads
• Create light animations and sound effects

Intermediate:

• Use light, sound, temperature, and motion sensors
• Make the board respond with conditionals
• Combine sensors, buttons, lights, and sound

Advanced:

• Collect and interpret sensor data
• Program infrared communication between boards
• Add external LEDs, buttons, servos, or conductive materials
• Prototype a device for a real user

Extension Ideas

Extend Your Learning

• Build a motion or step counter
• Create a reaction game
• Design a wearable light or sound badge
• Make a classroom sound or light meter
• Build a board game, dice, or scorekeeper
• Create a field-data collection tool

For Teachers

Teacher Notes

• Time required: 1–3 class periods for intro
• No prior coding experience required
• Works with or without a physical board because MakeCode includes a simulator
• Excellent entry point to coding, electronics, and maker-centered learning