In computer programming, coding is used to tell computers, mobile devices, and software programs how to run. Because there are different coding applications, coders may use different programming languages.
When it comes to coding for kids, several questions are often raised. Such questions include; What exactly is coding for kids? Will my kids learn how to code just like an adult? How soon can my kids learn to build their video games?
Today, kids at the age of 5 and even younger learn the basics of coding. Some of these kids start by engaging in pictorial games and puzzles that present coding principles before they can even learn to read.
Sounds interesting right? The good news is that parents and teachers can now easily find information on the immediate and future benefits of coding for kids. And you do not even need a degree in computer science to achieve that.
To achieve this, you have to read further into this article because here we are going to provide the ultimate guide to getting started with coding for kids!
What Is Coding For Kids?
Generally, coding is the creative process executed by computer programmers wherein they tell a computer or machine how to perform a specific task. This is achieved by writing executable scripts using computer programming languages like Java or Python.
Coding for kids is the way kids communicate with computers by giving computers instructions, and the computer carries these instructions out. People who know how to code can create games, apps, computer software, websites, and interactive digital content.
But kids who are just learning how to code obviously will not be programming a video game with their first lesson. However, the minds of kids are adaptable and malleable which means that coding for kids starts small and eventually grows big with more practice.
One of the benefits of kids that are exposed to coding at a very young age is that they learn how to construct creative solutions and carry out a trial and error learning process. The earlier kids learn to code, the easier it is for them to master all subsequent skills coding encourages.
Why Is Coding Important For Kids?
Generally, teaching kids to code is a skill that brings so much value to their education. One of the most obvious benefits of learning to code is related to the future benefits of having an extra income skill.
However, as kids, there are several other reasons why coding is important to them. They include the following:
#1 It Builds Good Academic Foundation
Coding involves problem-solving and logical reasons which makes it a good foundation for academic achievement. In recent studies, it has been discovered that there is a positive correlation between coding and cognitive skills.
Kids that learn to code are taught how to break complex problems down into smaller pieces. What this means is that they can easily identify a problem, analyze it, create a viable solution, test the solution, and repeat the process if the problem is not fully addressed.
As these kids start coding, they become familiar with the process of solving problems. Kids can also engage in teamwork and patience which is an important skill for success both in life and in academics.
#2 It Builds Focus and Creativity
Creativity goes hand in hand with coding even though a lot of people don’t seem to think so because of how methodical and procedural the act of coding can be. It is believed that there is a certain level of creative thinking required when coding from the foundation.
Once kids learn how to code, they always try out a new app or play a new video game, they could even draw inspiration for their creations. With coding, kids learn to make music and artworks, and they can apply creative solutions to problems. They can create interactive content by writing down lines of existing code, but the actual blueprint for that content comes from their imagination.
Coding can be a viable outlet for kids to express themselves creatively and with this creativity comes a certain level of focus. This is why when kids develop a program, they usually consider all aspects of it to write the corresponding code.
#3 Coding Builds Patience
You will agree with me that patience is one virtue everyone in life will eventually have to develop. For kids in coding, this virtue is developed from an early stage.
Imagine a kid that uses text-based coding which requires perfect syntax? Text-based coding is complex and this means that when one comma or semicolon is out of place, the script becomes useless. And as the script grows, the process of writing, running, debugging, re-writing, and re-running the code becomes even more complex. This alone can teach kids in coding patience like nothing else.
#4 Coding Builds Confidence
Kids who code tend to have more confidence in their decisions compared to children who don’t. This is because working on scripts can be extremely difficult and you have to keep second-guessing yourself constantly.
Kids in coding learn to be comfortable with their decisions and this builds their confidence. Their ability to bounce back after repeated failure is incredibly inspiring, and the confidence that eventually leaves them carries on to many different areas of their life whether social or personal.
How To Engage Your Kids With Coding
Now we have discussed some of the importance of coding for kids, it’s time to find out how to engage your kids with coding. It is best advised that you think about what your kid will enjoy and what their strengths are when choosing the best method to engage them in coding.
So here are some of the ways to engage your kids with coding:
- Combine it with their passion
- Learn coding with them
- You can turn it to a social activity
- You take them courses and private tutors, or subscribe to an online learning app.
- Through coding bootcamps
Conclusion
Kids of all ages can set the stage for exciting careers by learning to code. Different jobs require different coding experience and there are several platforms available for everyone who wants to learn to code.
With technology increasingly prevalent across so many industries, basic coding knowledge is important for kids irrespective of their career choice.
