Getting Kids Started with Coding: A Parent's Essential Guide

ElevatEd
Coding
October 8, 2024

Did you know coding for kids has become necessary, just like learning to read and write? Coding is the foundation of the tech world. Kids with prior coding knowledge are far ahead in the race. As a parent, do you wish to introduce your child to coding?

Introduce your little one to coding at an early age and give them the head start they need in understanding technology, solving problems, and thinking logically. Here is a comprehensive guide on getting started with coding.

Turn Screen Time into Learning Time with our simple coding sessions

The Right Beginner Programming for Children

A beginner programming language should be simple and easy for children to understand. Here are some examples:

Scratch: This is a program developed by MIT for kids between the ages of 8 and 16. Kids can create animations, games, and interactive stories with a simple drag-and-drop interface.

Python: It is easy and readable. It can be the best choice for kids aged 10 and up. However, Python can be used in any program. You can use it to play games, make a website, or do any other type of project you desire.

Blockly: Like Scratch, Blockly is a graphical language where students can learn the way code works without ever writing it themselves.

JavaScript: It is an excellent choice for kids slightly older who are interested in web development. It is commonly used to build websites and web applications.

Steps to Get Your Child Started with Coding

Step 1: Introduce Them to Coding Games and Apps that make coding fun and engaging for kids to learn.
Step 2:Introduce children to crosswords, building blocks, or simple board games that teach logical thinking and improve problem-solving skills instead of directly starting with coding.
Step 3: Enroll them on reliable online coding courses that are specifically tailored for kids.
Step 4:Allow your child to work on several projects in their areas of interest, related to coding. If they like storytelling, then make an animated story with them using Scratch.
Step 5: Be patient and encourage your child to explore and learn from their mistakes.
Step 6: Compliment their small achievements to keep their interest alive.

In conclusion, coding is exciting and opens a world of possibilities for kids. Starting early with the right support can help you get your kid develop some of the valuable skills that would help them throughout their life.

Book a free trial with 98thPercentile and let us teach your kids the best live online coding classes and ignite interest in them from an early age towards coding.

FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What age is ideal for kids to start to learn to program?

Ans: Children can be introduced to the basic ideas of programming as early as they are 5 to 7 years old.

Q2: Is coding too complicated for young children?

Ans: No, coding is never too complicated for young kids if presented through games or activities that are friendlier to their age range.

Q3: How many hours should my child spend daily on coding?

Ans: As a beginner, the child should spend 20-30 minutes daily so as not to overwhelm and must continue to practice regularly.

Q4: Do I need to be a computer science major to teach my child to code?

Ans: No, you do not need to be. There are hundreds of resources, tutorials, and online platforms like 98thPercentile that teach step by step how children should code.

Q5: How to keep the child engaged while learning coding?

Ans: Make the process of coding fun for your child; allow them to work on their projects, especially if they are excited about game or animation creating, or any other specific interest areas.

Q6: Can my child acquire coding if he lacks any previous technical expertise?
Ans: Absolutely! Most coding systems for children aim to cater for novices. Just interest and a desire to know are required; prior experience is not needed.

Q7: Can coding assist my kid with academic performance?
Ans: Definitely! Helps kids do well in many disciplines, coding enhances creativity, logical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and even math knowledge.

Q8: Where ought my child to begin with a coding language?
Ans: Their age and liking will determine it. While Python is ideal for older children (10+) who are ready for more text-based coding, Scratch is excellent for youngsters (5–10).

Q9: While learning to code, could my kid run the risk of spending too much screen time?
Ans: Not if under good management. Set healthy time limits (like 30-45 minutes daily) and balance them with other activities. Coding as a screen activity is quite fruitful.