Thinking before typing
Calculators didn’t end mathematics; AI won’t end coding. We teach the reasoning underneath the tools, so kids can direct intelligent systems instead of just accepting their output.
Don’t panic. Build something.
The lab started with a simple observation: the kids who thrive with technology aren’t the ones who consume the most of it — they’re the ones who understand it.
The Don't Panic Lab began as a Saturday-morning experiment: a handful of kids, a borrowed room, and one rule on the wall — don’t panic. Every error message is a puzzle, not a failure. Every bug is a clue.
We’ve kept that spirit as we’ve grown. Classes stay small, projects stay real, and nobody is ever made to feel silly for asking a question. The name is a promise: this is a calm place to learn something powerful.
How we teach
Projects over worksheets
Every term ships something real — a game, a tool, a robot run. Motivation is easy when the thing you’re building is yours.
Small classes, big patience
Groups are capped so every child gets seen, every question gets answered, and nobody hides at the back of the room.
The instructors
The people (and one lab monster) who keep the lab calm, curious, and building.
Dr. Yasir Latif
Founder & Lead Coach
The don't panic lab is Dr. Latif's passion project. In his day job, he makes AI for satellites, and through TDPL helps young builders do the same — with patience, humour, and a strict no-panic policy.
Zoona Azhar
Early Year Educator & Adult in the Room
Zoona is an early childhood education specialist and ensures our youngest coders feel safe, supported, and celebrated as they explore the world of programming.
Skakutlu
Lab Monster and code buddy
Our resident (imaginary) lab monster, Skakutlu is a friendly, code-loving creature who helps kids debug their programs and keeps the lab a fun and welcoming place for all.
Safe and sound
- All instructors hold current background checks and safeguarding training.
- Class sizes are capped, with sight-lines so kids are always supervised.
- Devices and kits are provided — no accounts, ads, or open internet access required.
- Parents get a clear report after every term, plus demo-day invitations.