Kids learn to play video games, use smartphones, tablets, and other electronics from a young age. They might also start to express an interest in learning how to code and program their own games. But, is this a good idea, and should you allow young kids to jump into coding?

What is computer coding?

Coding is the primary method for allowing intercommunication between humans and machines. It refers to the process of developing computer instructions to solve a particular problem. Computer coding involves use of special characters, signs and symbols found in a particular coding language. Each coding language has a special sequence or order of writing characters usually referred to as syntax. Coding allows us to create things such as computer software, websites, apps and video games. Coding involves writing computer programs using programming languages that can range from visual drag and drop languages to text-based languages like Java or Python. Kids coding is usually taught using content that is both educational and entertaining.

How early can kids learn to code?

There is no exact age to start but as soon as the child is able to read one can start coding and learning programming basics. In fact, coding for kids has gained popularity rapidly in recent years as technology becomes increasingly part of everyday life. Kids who learn to code when they’re young can set themselves up for a lifetime of opportunities for success.

How do you introduce coding to kids?

Encourage hands-on play with toys to initiate experiential learning, teach the building blocks of coding. Secondly create more real-life “coding” experiences by exposing them to coding academies these will enable them gain a holistic understanding of different programming applications – from robotics to mobile development to CSS. Expose the child to online resources to enhance their skills in coding and attach them to a mentor. Lastly allow them to play

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Benefits of computer coding

• Computer coding enhances problem solving skills in kids. Coding breaks a problem into systematic steps which can be applied in others areas when solving problems.
• Technology is applied in all works of life in the world. Exposing young minds early, builds a future generation that can easily embrace technology.
• Children are creative and just require exposure and support, Computer coding is a channel to nature the ideas
• The world is experiencing problems that can be solved with technology, “only the wearer knows where the shoe pitches”, Kids are the best suited to realize the best technological solutions for their problems.
• Coding is a universal language in the world and every one should learn this language. One should not only learn how to use technology but also how to control and manipulate it.
• Computer coding teaches young minds about persistence, it eliminates the fear of failure and builds the need for persistence in problem solving.

How long does it take to learn coding?

Depends on what programming language, some are easier to learn, others harder. It also depends on your child characteristics, how he/she perceive the information. Generally, it takes about 3 to 6 months to learn the basics of coding.

When is it too late to learn coding?

Masako Wakamiya obtained her first personal computer at age 58, just ahead of her retirement from a bank. Little did she know that she was beginning a journey that would make her the world’s oldest known iPhone app developer, at 81. Now 84, Wakamiya calls herself an IT evangelist and encourages other seniors to use digital technology to enrich their lives. She writes books while spreading her message on the lecture circuit in Japan and abroad.