I'd like to come up with some type of project young kids (ranging from 5 to 9 years old) could help with. Of the 8 to 12 kids in the group, a couple of them may be able to grasp the very basics of coding, but the project would need to cater to the skill set of the younger kids so they don't feel left out.

I think the best way to go about it is have them draw characters that I can scan in and add as just pngs to the game with some simple animations (squash and stretch animation, jumping, etc). I'd also want them to provide input on how the game looks to a limited extent (i.e. provide 1 to 3 options for them to pick from)

So far, I've considered doing a simple platform game (the easiest option), a visual novel (a bit harder), or a monster catcher (most difficult for me personally to make from scratch).

I'm looking for ideas and resources for this activity. This game project would only be used to keep a group of kids busy and engaged for an hour or so over the span of a couple of days. It would also not be posted publicly 

Hi!

After you have finished your project, it would be great to hear how it went. Your ideas sound great! 

In addition to those, audio might be good area to explore. Recording sound effects for the game could be really fun.

An RPG.

You can keep the RPG basic like Paper Mario, keep it short too to keep the job small; however, for multiple kids to join in the design step, they can design worlds, characters, quests, jobs and so on. Kids want to make Skibidi Toilet a quest in order to fight it with.... IDK, Mr.Beast bot? Let'em, as you might discover they will more than likely make jobs and quest's based on whatever their minds get hopped up on.

Everyone can also take part in the project making characters, drawing up small towns and cities, weapons, oddities, choice in music and choosing sound effects or making them.... Alternatively, you might need to have grab a sound pack with music from Humble Bundle when they start selling them in another bundle again.

hello anyone im making a game called suspicious file, im not like making it yet but im using files wich hackers use sometimes

Cool

Letting them draw characters, choose design elements, or even help with sound effects is such a creative and empowering way to get them involved. I really like the suggestion of keeping things short and fun, like a mini RPG or simple platformer. Even if only a few of them grasp the logic behind how things work, they’re all going to feel proud seeing their creations in motion.