The recent growth of interest in computer science has created a movement to more readily introduce computer science in K-12 classrooms. However, little research exists on how to successfully bring computer science to lower grade levels. In this paper, we present advice for researchers and curriculum developers who are getting started working with computer science in elementary schools. Specifically, we focus on practical tips for studies of this nature, developed from our experiences piloting a computational thinking curriculum with 4 th -6 th  grade students. We address issues arising in elementary school classrooms such as recruiting and interfacing with teachers and schools, classroom management strategies, student computer literacy and developmental stages, and curriculum life cycles.
['Diana Franklin', 'C. S. Hill', 'Hilary A. Dwyer', 'Ashley Iveland', 'Alexandria Killian', 'Danielle Boyd Harlow']
Getting Started in Teaching and Researching Computer Science in the Elementary Classroom