{"id":12069,"date":"2021-10-02T07:22:07","date_gmt":"2021-10-02T07:22:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/?p=12069"},"modified":"2022-10-13T20:49:50","modified_gmt":"2022-10-13T20:49:50","slug":"parents-guide-to-coding-for-kids","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/parents-guide-to-coding-for-kids\/","title":{"rendered":"A Parent&#8217;s Guide to Coding for Kids"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A Parent&#8217;s Guide to Coding for Kids<\/span><\/h1>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Open up a world of opportunity for your child by introducing them to coding and computer programming from a young age. Kids are insatiably curious and eager to learn and play, and computer programming opportunities lean into their curiosities, engage creativity, and foster life-long problem-solving skills.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coding programs are increasingly popular for children ages five and up. While educators in some school districts have made it possible for students to explore technology and develop coding skills from a young age, there are many programs and camps available outside of the classroom.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids with a wide variety of interests will find it fun to learn how to code, and if you start while they\u2019re young, you\u2019ll be amazed by what they\u2019ll learn.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Should My Kid Learn How to Code?<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simply put: Yes! When children have the opportunity to explore technology and learn how to code, they are advantageous in other facets of their education. Not only will they get first-hand knowledge and coordination in using computers, but they\u2019ll also have a creative outlet.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Teaching kids coding also provides an opportunity for them to develop excellent problem-solving skills. Young children are sponges, and if they get used to the problem-solving process in coding, there\u2019s no doubt they\u2019ll be able to transfer those skills to other areas of their life.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a child develops programming skills, they may find that they\u2019re interested in developing games, characters, apps, and tools. They\u2019ll begin to see how technology works together, write their own scripts, adapt their own codes, and produce something that makes them proud. Give them the building blocks they need, and see where their curiosity leads them!<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signs Your Child May Love Learning to Code\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re not sure whether or not your child will enjoy coding lessons, remember that it appeals to various interests. Your child might love coding concepts if they:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have an inherent interest in technology, whether through computers, tablets, or gaming systems<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enjoy challenging educational games, like puzzles or problem-solving activities<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use drag-and-drop coding toys, like Code-a-pillar<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Participate in games that engage programming skills, such as Minecraft or Robot Wars<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can follow detailed instructions or enjoy free play with building toys such as LEGO<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gravitate to creative outlets like art classes and cooking classes<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Of course, even if your child doesn\u2019t express a strong interest in any of these things, they might latch on to coding as a new hobby. Learning to code is something a child could do independently or with a friend or parent. As kids learn more about the basics of coding, they\u2019ll find many creative avenues to explore.<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Benefits of Learning to Code<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding how computers work is a foundational building block for many paths in life. Just think how many people you know that don&#8217;t understand the basics of coding or that coding is what\u2019s used to make applications and programs. To some degree, they&#8217;re at a loss.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Technology is ever-changing. Providing young children with the confidence they need to learn and adapt to new technologies continuously will empower them throughout their lives.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your cool coding kids might someday develop their own coding language, create new technologies, or use their skills as a programmer to engineer unique solutions in life and in their careers! You can&#8217;t even predict where newfound coding skills will take them: They may become qualified for jobs in the future that don\u2019t yet exist.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children who learn how to code often:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Develop strong problem-solving skills<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Build resilience<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Engage creativity<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore imaginative free play<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Excel in STEM studies<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coding Classes for Kids: Investing in Their Future<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hey parents, it\u2019s hard to remember that your kids will have no memory of an &#8220;unconnected&#8221; world, one free from complexly connected networks, mobile technologies, and plug-ins and apps. Not only do they not recall a time that wasn\u2019t Wi-Fi reliant and cloud-based, but they really don\u2019t have a good opportunity to learn about current technologies until we as parents provide them the tools and training.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exposure to technology and knowledge of coding skills and computer programming are almost prerequisites for education\u2014many schools have coding programs for students as young as five. By investing in technologies that your children can learn, you\u2019re also investing in more opportunities for their future and giving them the chance to be a step ahead at navigating inevitable changes in technology throughout their lives.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can&#8217;t deny that the time to learn is now. So stay apprised of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/codertree\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">child-focused learning philosophies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and help make the most of your kid\u2019s learning experience.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Introducing Kids to Coding<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore the world of coding concepts with your child. Many schools offer programs for five-year-olds, and there are countless <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/camps\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">coding camp<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> opportunities for children in grades 2-5 and into middle school and high school. Experiencing the different levels of coding and script-writing from a young age is the best way to help integrate problem-solving skills and creativity into their lives.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some things you can do to help your child learn about coding:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increase their exposure to age-appropriate video games and apps, such as Minecraft<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experience coding with them: If you haven\u2019t coded before, there\u2019s an added benefit in that your child can see how an adult navigates problem-solving challenges<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find coding opportunities to match their interests or preferred devices; many kids love learning on the iPad<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Talk about after-school programs and summer camps offered by theCoderSchool\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many think that an independent child will thrive in the world of coding, but that\u2019s not always the case. Coding is a learned skill and is enhanced by peer instruction, active teachers, and hands-on projects and tasks. Programs at theCoderSchool offer kids the option to choose between private instruction with an individual Code Coach, or in a low-ratio classroom setting.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finding the Best Coding Class or Camp for Your Kid<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are many things to consider as you explore coding classes and camps for your child. Some kids are vocal about the learning experience they want to pursue. For example, they may want to learn how to program a website, design a game, or build a robot. Others may be looking to take their existing knowledge of computers to the next level by exploring the newest programming languages and learning how to apply them.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you\u2019re choosing a program, consider:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your child\u2019s age<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Interests, such as video games, websites, robotics, etc.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Social skills. Some children learn best one-on-one tutorials, while others thrive in a class-based environment with peers.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learning style. Rigorous coder camps are good for some kids, but others learn best with a program that grows more gradually with their interests.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Availability. Afterschool programs and online resources are readily available for those needing flexibility.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skill level in coding. If your child has had some exposure in the past, whether in school or another camp, don\u2019t hesitate to contact us to help gauge what program and opportunities might pique their interest. Older kids who already know programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, CSS, HTML, or Raspberry Pi may be ready to take their know-how to the next level.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coding Programs That Get Kids Excited About Learning<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scratch Coding Classes<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/scratch-coding-for-kids\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scratch classes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are a fun way for kids to learn more about computer coding and basic programming. Primarily a visual language, Scratch is an entry-level coding language designed to introduce kids to the world of coding.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While it\u2019s pretty simple to learn, it\u2019s beneficial for several purposes and also primes kids for more challenging languages such as Python, C++, or Java. This is a good place to start if your child is interested in video game development or app creation.<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Video Game Coding Classes<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your kid has an interest in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/camps\/games\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">video game development<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, these classes are the right fit. Turn your kid\u2019s hobby into a fun, useful skill and allow them the opportunity to build their own interactive stories, challenges, and incredible visual effects.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In these camps and courses, your child will learn about variables, loops, conditionals, and if\/then logic for coding games. In addition, they\u2019ll be introduced to video games designed just for coders and get the base knowledge they need to continue into more advanced video game coding.<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minecraft Coding Classes<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Students with existing knowledge of Minecraft will thrive once they work within the Minecraft Education Edition&#8217;s Code Builder tool. Far from a \u201cboring\u201d syntax coding course, the Minecraft teaching platform gives kids a glimpse into a virtual world and allows them the opportunity to learn and code together in a social and collaborative environment. They\u2019ll build and edit worlds, create objects, and act as a free agent exploring and adapting their environment.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/camps\/minecraft\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minecraft coding<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> provides some gameplay opportunities, plus lots of problem-solving and creative thinking challenges. It\u2019s a great place to start your kid if they don\u2019t have any coding experience, especially if they already have a love of Minecraft.<\/span>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Robotics Camps<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/camps\/robocode\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Robotics camps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> might be the right fit for a kid who has shown interest in coding and wants to take it to the next level. Just a few decades ago, this coursework was only available at the collegiate level, but now it&#8217;s readily accessible for kids of all ages.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Students love building their own robots and adapting their custom code to make their robots work. Many programs even conclude with a competition to allow students to demonstrate how their robot works and show off their coding skills!<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Robotics camps foster collaboration and problem-solving skills while encouraging creativity. If your kid would enjoy the opportunity to build their own physical robot and code it to follow specific commands, you should pursue camps in your area.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find a Children\u2019s Coding Class Near You<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Give your kid a jumpstart down a STEM career path with classes that provide foundational knowledge in coding. Your curious, creative kid will thrive in an environment that introduces computers and technology and reinforces problem-solving skills at a young age.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">TheCoderSchool provides coding classes and camps that make it easy for school-aged kids of all skill levels to explore the magic of computer science and programming. With locations across the United States and flexible courses, including virtual learning, in-person classes, or private one-on-one lessons, we strive to provide new challenges and opportunities for the next-gen to take their curiosities with technology to the next level.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/locations\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find a class near you<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and get in touch with the educators at theCoderSchool today if you have any questions.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<!-- \/wp:post-content -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A Parent&#8217;s Guide to Coding for Kids Open up a world of opportunity for your child by introducing them to coding and computer programming from a young age. Kids are insatiably curious and eager to learn and play, and computer programming opportunities lean into their curiosities, engage creativity, and foster life-long problem-solving skills. Coding programs &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/parents-guide-to-coding-for-kids\/\" class=\"more-link\">Continue reading<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> &#8220;A Parent&#8217;s Guide to Coding for Kids&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[68,61],"class_list":["post-12069","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-coder-blog","tag-advice-for-parents","tag-education","entry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12069","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12069"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12069\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12236,"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12069\/revisions\/12236"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12069"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12069"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.thecoderschool.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12069"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}