Codex app
Official OpenAI Codex desktop app for macOS or Windows. Use this if Bud says the cohort will use Codex directly.
Official app links
Install only the tools Bud actually asks for.
ChatGPT desktop
Official OpenAI ChatGPT desktop app if the student or parent is using ChatGPT on the computer during prep.
Codex quick start
Official OpenAI getting-started flow for choosing the project folder and sending the first task.
QR board
Fast phone access for parents and students.
App Camp page
budjohnson.com/appcamp/
Prep hub
budjohnson.com/appcamp/prep/
Worksheet hub
budjohnson.com/worksheets/
Official Codex app
developers.openai.com/codex/app
Computer setup
Folder structure, permissions, and the “no surprises at class” checklist.
Recommended working folder
Create one obvious folder before class. Example:Desktop/App Camp/Student First Name/
Inside it create:builds/assets/downloads/exports/screenshots/
External drive option
If you want the work off the main machine, plug in one external hard drive and create the same structure there. Make sure the drive mounts cleanly and the student can open it without help.
Admin permission rule
If the laptop ever asks for an admin password during install, screen recording, accessibility, browser download, or app launch, the parent should either turn that blocker off ahead of time or have the temporary password ready and written down.
If Codex is in the workflow
Extra permissions that can block class momentum.
If Bud asks families to use the Codex desktop app, install it before class and sign in before arrival.
Choose the exact project folder first so Codex is pointed at the right workspace from the start.
On macOS, if Bud plans to use Codex computer use features, be ready to allow Screen Recording and Accessibility when prompted.
If the machine is locked down by school or work device policies, do not assume it will work. Test the install and login in advance.
If any install step requires admin approval, do that before class or have the admin password physically available.
Prep links
Use these next.
Readiness worksheet
Complete the practical setup check before the cohort starts.
Idea filter worksheet
Help the student choose one small project worth building.
Prompt downloads
Open the mobile-friendly resource pages, screenshot them, print them, or download the original files.