Coding for Kids
The best tips and tools to teach kids to code in 2024
When it comes to coding there are so many options. How does a parent sort through it all?
We turned to programmer parents on Hacker News, Reddit and Facebook in Tech, Parenting and Homeschooling groups to find out their favorite resources for teaching their kids to code, and why.
In this post we’ll discuss
Whether learning to code still matters
The best coding resources for kids in 10 categories (from apps to online and in-person classes)
Share some of the top suggestions from parents in tech on how to teach your child to code (whether you’re a developer yourself or not)
Does learning to code matter?
Coding was the hot job of the nineties, but despite the shortage of qualified developers, it’s no longer a sure-fire path to a lucrative career. Tech companies are laying off programmers. Many tech jobs are being outsourced abroad, and some speculate that AI will take over many coding tasks.
We turned to developers all over the internet to ask if parents should still consider teaching their kids to code.
Here’s what we found:
Passion is Key
What’s most key is passion for coding. A programmer who loves to code is excited to learn, grow and adapt to new technology. Their skills will always be sought after.
Coding spills into other careers
Coding teaches critical thinking, innovation, systems thinking and problem solving. The value extends way beyond getting a career in tech.
In many ways, learning to code is like learning a language, and that language will be used more and more in our increasingly digital world.
Some developers suggested nearly every industry will require some knowledge of coding in the future. Fields where people are leveraging coding skills include artists, designers, medicine, and scientists.
AI won’t eliminate the need to code
While AI is shaping the world, someone will need to interface with the AI. AI is still very weak at coding, and it’s probable AI will create more jobs than it destroys.
Tech fields like Cybersecurity, Network infrastructure and Data analysis will remain highly relevant and require workers with knowledge of coding.
Your kid doesn’t have to learn to code
With the growing centenarian populations, jobs like home health care are also on the rise. As previously unpaid or under-compensated work begins to be compensated, fields like childcare, early-childhood education, cleaning, cooking, and gardening will grow.
Overall, McKinsey predicts the professions seeing the greatest growth across all countries include healthcare providers, engineers, scientists, accountants, analysts, educators, managers, executives, construction workers, as well as service workers.
Your child doesn’t need to learn to code NOW.
Many highly successful, impactful developers taught themselves code later in life. What’s more important than learning to write code is knowing how to learn, apply systems thinking and critical analysis. Forcing a child to learn a skill too early can turn them off to it altogether, and for life - or even worse, encourage a negative view about learning in general.
If there’s one thing that’s certain, it’s that no one knows what the future of work would be. Our advice: don’t teach your child to code to prepare them for a lucrative career. Teach them to code if they enjoy it and to develop the drive and plasticity to learn any skill the future may ask them to learn.
And now, the recs…
If passion for coding is what matters most, then choosing the right learning tool to inspire that passion is key. We’ve done a deep dive on the best apps, book and curriculum to teach your kids to code, whether you’re a developer or not.
Without further ado, here are our top recommendations in 10 categories.
Top 10 Coding Programs for Kids
🏆 1. Best overall: Scratch
🥈 2. Top Free Alternative or supplement to Scratch: Code.org (for structured lessons)
🐍 3. Upgrade Pick for Python and Real-Text Programming: CodeCombat (Python and real-text programming)
🚀 4. Upgrade Pick for Advanced Learners: Tynker
🐣 5. Top choice for Early Childhood CodeSpark
🖖🏾 6. Live, Online Classes: CodewizardsHQ and Outschool
💻 7. Self-Paced, Online Courses: Udemy
💕 8. In-Person Classes: Code Ninjas
📚 9. Books to supplement and guide learning: Usborne
👾 10. Weird and Wonderful Alternative Ways to Learn to Code
🏆 1. Best overall (for getting started and elementary age kids)
Scratch (Ages 8-16) Available in over 70 languages, Scratch is a coding language and community for children developed by MIT. We love how Scratch inspires a love of learning, nurtures creativity and experimentation skills in children. Some families find their children need more structured, progressive learning than Scratch can provide and they use code.org, or supplement with books like *Coding Games in Scratch or *Super Scratch Programming Adventure! The Scratch website also offers great tutorials. Many of the other curricula we recommend incorporate Scratch projects into their programs. The best way to start Scratch is to simply treat it like a new playground - jump in and explore. Preschoolers can take advantage of Scratch Jr as a starting point. FREE
For kids who love coding with Scratch, Modulo offers a social Scratch coding club on Saturdays (25% off for premium members)
Pricing: Scratch is free!
For a more in-depth overview, see our post on Scratch.
Other great options for getting started
If Scratch doesn’t appeal to your kid, here are some other wonderful programs we’ve found that parents love for comprehensive K-12 coding instruction for beginners and more advanced students.
*Code Monkey (Ages 5-14) - Code Monkey is a popular platform for younger kids that offers real text and block-based programming. Plans cost $7-20/month.
LightBot (All ages) Lightbot is an app that teaches programming through puzzles. Kids learn skills like sequencing, overloading, procedures, recursive loops and conditionals. (LightBot Jr is available for preschool and kindergarten, but the main program may be a fine starting point for younger kids as well) $2.99 on the app store.
Hopscotch (Ages 4+, designed for 10+) is a coding app that made its debut on Shark Tank and has since won multiple awards including the Parent’s Choice Gold Award. Kids can play on Iphones, Ipad or in your browser. It’s a good choice if kids are willing to watch videos and try out new things. $9.99/month
Codeverse (Ages 6-14) is a platform and community that teaches kids to code through their proprietary language, “Kidscript” that includes elements of common languages like Ruby, JavaScript, Java, C++, and Python. Classes range from $159/month for two classes per month to $489/month for 8 classes per month.
🥈 2. Top free alternative or supplement to Scratch with structured lessons
Code.org (K-12th grades). Used by over 80 million students, Code.org is a wonderful, free resource for children who need more structure and direction to their learning than Scratch can provide, or who want to venture out to languages beyond Scratch. It also includes Scratch lessons, so the tools can be combined. It’s recommended that students start with the Hour of Code and then watch videos, try out the programming environment, Sprite Lab, or take self-paced lessons in topics ranging from Game to App development. Parents love Code.org because it feels like a game while teaching computational thinking, progresses linearly through levels, offers block coding transitioning to Java, and is fun, free, and conceptual rather than language-specific. While it teaches attention to detail well (which is a key skill for coding), some feel there is still too much emphasis on dragging and dropping blocks, and not enough on real preparation for advanced programming.
Pricing: Code.org is free
Great alternative free programs:
Free Code Camp (all ages) is an in-depth coding program that’s helped more than 40,00 people obtain coding jobs. They offer free professional certifications and a truly wide variety of classes including English for developers. FREE
Khan Academy Programming Classes. The programming classes at Khan Academy are part of the full curriculum they offer. It’s easy for parents to guide kids through the material and older children can work through lessons independently. Younger kids may need a little support. Parents rave about the Java script programming lessons, in particular. FREE
🐍 3. Upgrade Pick (noted for Python and Real-Text Programming)
CodeCombat (ages 9-16) is a game-based learning platform that also includes live, online classes with 1-1 support. Code Combat is widely know for it’s exceptional Python programming skills, but also teaches Java Script, HTML and CoffeeScript. CodeCombat recommends Python as a strong first, real programming language for children because of its readability, simplicity, and versatility in teaching fundamental programming concepts. Unlike other children’s programs, CodeCombat primarily focuses on text-based coding rather than block-based coding, which appeals to some families, who are not fans of drag and drop block-based coding. Some parents felt it was designed more for classroom teachers, and a bit tricky to adjust to a homeschool setting unless the parent had some prior knowledge of coding. Families might want to consider pairing the program with a tutor/mentor or taking a live class.
Prices vary widely: Starting from free access to content, to $9.99/month of $99/year for a premium subscription and $219-$399 for private online tutoring sessions(One or two times a week). Parents can view detailed information on pricing here.
🚀4. Preschool and Kindergarten
*CodeSpark: This fun app is part of the *Homer early childhood learning program (We love their Math and Early Literacy programs too). It lets kids create their own video games, while teaching them core coding concepts like loops, nested statements and debugging, motivating them to learn and grow in the context of improving their own projects. Since being acquired by Homer, some parents complain that the app has become overpriced, but still find its has enough value to justify the expense.
Pricing: Code Spark is $9.99/month, with 30% savings on an annual plan.
Alternative early childhood picks
*ScratchJr. The baby version of Scratch, Scratch Jr is a fun, simple program to use if Scratch is too challenging for younger kids. It includes guides for instruction and 75+ activities. Like Scratch, it is more exploratory and less directional, which some parents dislike. FREE
Code Monkey Jr. The baby version of Code Monkey, Code Monkey Jr is focused on teaching computational thinking and coding basics to preschool and kindergarteners with bright colors and fun cartoon creatures. Unlike Code Monkey, it uses a block-based approach. Code Monkey is $7/month per child. Per child cost decreases with additional students.
Kodable. Kodable has a suite of learning games appropriate for children as young as three. It ranges from $9.99/month to $149.99 for a lifetime subscription.
LightBot Jr is the baby version of Lightbot, that includes plenty of fun activities to keep little kids occupied and learning before they move on to LightBot or another program. $2.99 on the app store.
*Osmo Coding: Designed for younger learners, Osmo has a unique approach where kids use a specail base for thir tablet. It ntegrates physical game pieces to play digital games that include drawing, coding and spelling. The coding starter kit is advertised at $99, but we found it for $41.99 on their official Amazon site.
Edoki Suite. Edoki is a Montessori-inspired full curriculum that includes coding and can be a great fit for kids who respond to a Montessori method. $9.99/month or $59.99 for a year.
🐣5. Upgrade Pick for Intermediate Advanced Learners
Tynker includes a full K-12th grade coding curriculum, and may be a good fit for kids who have already mastered Scratch or Code.org and are ready for more challenging lessons. Like CodeCombat, it’s gamified and includes 5000 lessons in topics ranging from advanced CS, Data Science, AI and Machine Learning, Web and App Design, Python, Modding Minecraft and Block Coding. Some families found Tynker hard to use for homeschooling or co-ops, outside of a traditional classroom context, and that the quantity and variety of options can feel a bit overwhelming.
Prices range from $15/month to $468 for a lifetime subscription.
Other options for intermediate advanced learners:
UP AND COMING PICK! Mytek (3-12th grades): We’re very excited about Mytek. It’s a new program designed by homeschool parents that seems to occupy the needed space between Scratch and teaching grownups to code. They offer self-paced and online classes in Computer Science, Computer Technology and IT. Live classes are $49/month and self-paced classes are $199 total.
AoPS Intermediate Programming with Python. The popular Art of Problem Solving offers programming classes. Their “Intermediate Programming” has been recommended as a particularly great option. The cost is $545 for a 12 week class.
*Unity: the popular interactive game-design platform offers a wide variety of learning pathways, including a special program for kids and parents. It’s recommended for who kids have some knowledge of Python before starting with Unity. The Parents and Kids Program Together Program is free. Student, Personal and Unity Learn programs are also free. Thanks Unity! (individual and team accounts start at $1877/per year per seat). All plans include access to assets and learning materials.
Built for grownups, fun for kids
While they don’t have the cute, fun animals and bells and whistles of programs curated for children, many kids can learn perfectly well with programs designed for college students and adults. Here are a few parents recommend.
MimoApp, an app designed for grownups who want to get hired, Mimo teaches HTML, JavaScript, SQL, Python, Node.js and React to 25+ million aspiring programmers with gameified lessons and community. They have free options, with upgrades between $79.99/year -$299/year for Pro and Max options.
Codecademy. Many families use the codecademy platform to teach coding to kids. It teaches coding step by step, and is more in-depth than typical children’s programs, but can be hit or miss depending on the child and if they like the style. FREE
W3Schools Developed in 1998, W3Schools is one of the larger web developer sites on the internet, offering user-friendly tutorials on nearly every aspect of programming and popular free HTML templates. FREE with $4.99/month upgrade option.
UT Austin Coding Bootcamp Definitely a pricier option for the serious coder, UT Austin's Coding Boot Camp offers a comprehensive online program in web development skills, including HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, jQuery, Bootstrap, Express.js, React.js, Node.js, Database Theory, MongoDB, MySQL, Command Line, Git, and more, with flexible scheduling options, hands-on projects, career support, and a Certificate of Completion from UT Austin. The Part-time fee: $12,495 and Full-time fee: $12,995
🖖🏾 6. Live, Online Classes for kids who need encouragement
Some children need more encouragement from teachers or peers to thrive. An online class can be a great way to encourage their coding skills through accountability and support.
CodeWizardsHQ (Ages 8-18). An online class can be a great way to encourage their coding skills through accountability and support. CodeWizard HQ offers Elementary, middle school and high school tracks for young coders. The lessons are structured, progressive and last a full year. Kids can communicate directly with their teachers. $447/course.
Marketplace for online classes
*Outschool (K-12th grades) is an online platform for live classes. Parents rave about their group classes. Outschool is a marketplace, not a coding class curriculum developer, so individual creators develop their classes and they can vary in quality. Outschool vets all their teachers, but parents can also filter by ratings and read reviews to select the best course for their child. Classes typically meet once a week. They are priced by individual teachers and tend to be fairly inexpensive, ranging from $7-24 per class.
Other great live, online Classes:
Mytek Lab (Ages 8-15+) offers live and self-paced classes. It’s a new program homeschool parents are raving about as a more advanced alternative to Scratch that’s still built with kids in mind. Live classes are $49/month and self-paced classes are $199 total. UP AND COMING pick!
AoPS Online C/S Programming Classes: especially “Intermediate Programming” with Python is a phenomenal online course created by the company that’s known for its math textbooks and Beast Academy program.
Create and Learn (K-12th grades) Kids learn AI, coding, robotics and more with live, online classes. They just introduced a new Code with AI program, as well. It’s $78.75 for a five-class pack for small group classes. Private classes are $220 for four sessions.
Coding With Kids (K-12th grades) offers a project-based, progressive program that allows childcren to learn at their own pace. They offer both group and 1-1 classes. $240 for 4 weeks of private classes. Special options available for in-perosn and online camps.
White Hat JR (K-12th grades) Part of BYJU’s Future School, White Hat Jr teaches logic, structure, creative thinking, sequencing and algorithmic thinking. All classes are 1-1. Pricing varies depending on location.
Codakid (K-12th grades) offers self-paced, 1-1 coding, camps and design classes. Classes start at Camps start at $349/week.
Juni Learning (2nd-12th) offers 1-1 coding lessons. They have wonderful tutors, many from Stanford and other top universities. It has a special AI tool to supplement 1-1 human mentoring. Starts at $275/month.
Jippity (K-12th grades) uses a unique approach of pairing kids with a human mentor and AI tutor to teach them to code. These are the same creators that built tryrecess.com, a social coding club for kids. $75/hr for a one on one session with a mentor.
Code Combat (ages 9-16) our top upgrade pick for python and real-text programming also offers live, online classes. $9.99/month of $99/year for a premium subscription and $219-$399 for private online tutoring sessions
💻 7. Self-paced online courses for project-based learners
Udemy Development Classes. Parents love the coding classes on Udemy. Self-paced online courses can be a great approach for kids who are more advanced or want to learn concepts in the context of building their own projects.
Here are some of the favorite Unity, Python, Java and Scratch classes families have found on Udemy for their kids. Godot-themed classes are also recommended.
Favorite Udemy Classes
C# 3D programming with the Unity engine (they recreate classic video games).
Minecraft mod using JAVA for kids and beginners
Programming for Kids and Beginners: Learn to Code in Scratch
Python for Beginners Anyone Can Code
Teach Your Kids to Code: Learn to Program Python at Any Age!
Learn Python Programming Masterclass
Pricing: Since Udemy is an online marketplace, pricing can vary. Most classes range from $12-20. There are also free courses available.
Other recommended self-paced online courses NOT on Udemy
Harvard University CS50 Introduction to Computer Science on EdX is built for college students, but it’s a strong foundational class that many homeschoolers use and starts with Scratch. It’s free with an optional upgrade.
Mytek Lab (ages 8-15) offers live and self-paced classes. It’s a new program homeschool parents are raving about as a more advanced alternative to Scratch that’s still built with kids in mind. Live classes are $49/month and self-paced classes are $199 total.
Unit: Intro to Python programming | Teacher Hub | Oak National Academy. Oak National Academy offers clear, free, guided lesson plans for Python and other subjects, but the python class was especially recommended. FREE.
💕8. In-person classes
*Code Ninjas (Ages 5-14). For kids who do better with in-person, social learning, Code Ninjas is a widely respected franchise program that exists across the United States. Rates vary according to location and may vary. One program we found costs $320-$360/month for six classes a week.
Free alternative for in-person learning
Coder Dojo (Ages 7-17) offers free local clubs for kids and teens with volunteer mentors. FREE.
📚9. Books for supplementing or guiding lessons
*Usborne Coding for Beginners: Many families guide or supplement their children’s learning through books they buy or find at the library. Usborne offers clear, colorful lessons that are easy for a parent with no coding experience to guide their children through. They can help structure learning with Scratch and other programs.
Other coding books parents love.
*Coding for Beginners Using Scratch
*Coding Games in Scratch: A Step-by-Step Visual Guide to Building Your Own Computer
*Drawing Data with Kids: Cultivating Data Literacy
*Hello World! Computer Programming for Beginners
*Super Scratch Programming Adventure! (Scratch 3)
(Python for Kids: A Playful Introduction to Programming
👾 10. Quirky ways to learn to code (recommended by developers)
Many successful developers taught themselves to code, long before the explosion of classroom curriculum and apps to teach coding. Here are some of the more creative ways parents shared that they’re teaching their kids to code, or learned to code themselves.
Glitch: Kids can switch to an advanced platform like Glitch, after Scratch. It has a visual editor and online community but uses Java Script. Glitch has a lot available via their free membership. You can also pay $8/month for premium.
Bandit (scripting tutorial): If kids are really interested in becoming programmers, Bandit offers a tried and true shell scripting tutorial. Kids will learn essential skills like, sshing/tunnels and basic scripting. FREE.
*Inventr.io (hardware engineering and automation), Courses, kits and a vibrant online community where people will answer questions and problem-solve. Their products range from $24.00 for a Python Starter Kit to to $200 for specialized kits like the AI Apocalypse + BONUS Spy Course. Their 30 days lost in space kit teaches robotics and coding and costs $129.99
Microsoft Visual Studio Code is a visual editor you can install on your computer which includes smart complete, debugging and built-in Git commands. It’s designed to help real developers code, but kids can certainly use it to develop website as well. FREE
Rosetta Code. Rosetta Code is a programming platform that offers solutions to coding problems in multiple languages, making it helpful for kids to learn coding by comparing and understanding different programming languages in one place.
If your kid loves gaming
If kids are motivated to create games, or play games, they may have more motivation to learn to code, especially with these tools.
Coding with Minecraft (Gdeas 6-8) The Minecraft education coding program is a no-brainer for Minecraft lovers. Kids can play puzzles and mazes while simultaneously learning to code. However, some families felt kids needed a little more experience with coding before they started coding Minecraft. Minecraft Education is $12/year for individuals or $5/year if you’re part of an eligible financial institution (Any homeschool co-op can purchase a license, you don’t have to be a school).
Roblox (Ages 13+) Roblox is a platform where users can create and play games. It teaches coding through its scripting language, Lua, which allows users to create interactive experiences within their games. Roblox offers an intro to coding and game design program here.
Unity (for video games). Unity is probably not the best fit for beginners, but can be a great option for kids who have experience with Scratch and Python. A popular cross-platform game engine developed by Unity Technologies, It is used to create 2D, 3D, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) games, simulations, and other interactive experiences. They have a program for parents and kids to learn to code together.
Hardware (Robotics and Electronics)
Beyond the Toolbox (Ages 5-12) is a smaller program that offers hands-on, project based robotics and animation classes. Kids love the teacher/founder, Ben. Classes range from $135-225 for 3-5 day camp of 6 week class.
*Raspberry Pi (Ages 7 and up) A small, affordable computer, Raspberry Pi can help kids practice programming skills, explore electronics, and create their own projects, fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities. Learn more about the Raspberry Pi Foundation and coding activities they recommend here. The Raspberry Pi 5 Starter Kit is available on Amazon for 169.99.
*Creation Crates Tech Prodigy Kit (Ages 10+) This subscription toolbox sends monthly kits focused on electronics, coding and circuitry. Pricing: $39.99 a month to $539.82 for a year.
Edison is a programmable robot designed to offer a complete coding and robotics education to kids. Edison can be programmed in EdScratch, EdPython and Drag and Drop options. The robot is $59. They also sell parts and offer bulk orders which could be helpful to co-ops.
Eeme.co (Ages 10+) creates “not-so-easy” kits kids can use to learn electronics and coding. They also offer free lessons to supplement. They also offer a variety of free online lessons. The Python coding and electronics kit is $149.94.
*Spike Prime (Code a Robot) (Ages 10+). The LEGO Education SPIKE Prime Set is an educational kit designed to teach coding, engineering, and robotics to students aged 10 and above, featuring LEGO® bricks, sensors, motors, and a programmable hub for building and programming robots and machines. Main set is $479. Expansion set is $250 on Amazon.
*Lego Mindstorms set includes five programmable robots, over 50+ projects to teach kids coding at any level from beginner to adult, and an app to support learning. Kits can range anywhere from $58-$1000 on Amazon. The Robot inventor featured on the official page has been discontinued.
Robotics at NASA Space Camp (Ages 9-11). For a one of a kind in-person space camp, Nasa’s space camp is an unforgettable experience. Starts from $1699.
If you’re having trouble choosing
At Modulo, we don’t think there’s a perfect path to learn coding, because kids learn differently. What matters is what resonates with your unique child. The more passionate about the path they’re taking, the more likely they’ll be self-motivated and learn.
If you’re still feeling overwhelmed by all the options, here’s the gist of what we learned writing this post:
If you want to get a great intro to coding, start with Scratch. It will nurture the passion and experimentation kids need to cultivate to code successfully. You can supplement with books and online tutorials. If your child needs more structured, progressive lessons, consider beginning with code.org. Preschoolers (or any child feeling overwhelmed with Scratch) can star with Scratch Jr, or CodeSpark for a pricier, upgrade pic. For intermediate advanced learners, Tynker and Code Combat are both great. Code Combat is real text programming with an emphasis on Python, so a strong choice for those irritated by the block-based (drag and drop) approach most common in children’s coding programs. A newer, exciting option to explore is Myteklab, designed by two homeschool parents in between Scratch and grownup coding lessons. Learners who need more encouragement can take online classes with CodeWizardHQ, fOutschool or in-person lessons with Code Ninjas. Udemy also offers fantastic pre-recorded, self-paced classes.
When it comes to languages, developers recommend kids start with Scratch, move on to Python and then take a jab at Unity (a language used for game design). There’s so many innovative resources to support coding from robotics to 3D printing.
Let go and let your kids explore
For better or worse, many coding programs are designed to fit within a traditional classroom approach to instruction, moving from one concept to the next in a logical, step-by-step fashion. But a lot of coding in the real world doesn’t happen that way. The best way to learn coding, especially for self-directed learners, may be to start off with the goal of a project they want to build, and teach themselves to make it, learning programming with online tutorials they find. In school, much of learning is linear and progressive, but it doesn’t have to be that way for every subject. Many kids learn to code by choosing projects they want to build, and using google, youtube and other resource sto learn the code they need to realize their project. Learning to solve a problem aids motivation, retention and teaches grit.
Pro Tips from Programmer Parents
1. Start with Visual Programming Platforms: Begin with drag-and-drop platforms like Scratch. These platforms provide a visual representation of code blocks, making it easier for beginners to understand coding concepts.
2. Allow your child to explore coding platforms freely on the first day. This helps them get familiar with the tools and fosters curiosity and creativity.
3. Draw on Tutorials and Guided Activities: Introduce coding concepts through tutorials and guided activities available on platforms like Scratch. These activities provide a structured approach to learning while allowing flexibility for personalization.
4. Emphasize Modularity: Modular programming systems like Scratch or Mindstorms can help children think like coders before diving into specific languages. Understanding modular programming concepts makes learning other languages easier.
5. Combine Visual and Text-Based Languages: Introduce text-based languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript alongside visual programming. Tools like Mimo offer multiple language tracks and structured learning paths.
6. Leverage Gaming Interests: Utilize gaming platforms like Minecraft, Roblox Studio, and Unity to spark interest and motivation in coding. Children who are passionate about gaming are often more engaged in creating their own games.
7. Supplement with online tutorials and Books: Supplement online tutorials with coding books and resources. Books like "Usborne Coding Games and Projects" can help children progress from visual coding to more advanced languages like Python.
8. Encourage Problem-Solving: Teach children how to approach coding problems and encourage them to seek solutions independently. Platforms like Code.org offer interactive puzzles and challenges for this purpose.
9. Focus on Learning to Learn: Emphasize the importance of learning how to learn. Coding skills may evolve, but the ability to adapt, problem-solve, and acquire new knowledge remains invaluable.
10. Consider 1-1 Instruction: Explore online platforms or classes tailored to your child's interests and age group. Seek feedback from other parents or communities like homeschool groups for recommendations.
11. Encourage “searching the internet” for answers: Encourage children to search the internet for answers to coding questions they encounter while building projects. Online forums, tutorials, and documentation can provide valuable insights and solutions.
12. Leverage AI Tools for Learning: Integrate the capability of using AI tools like ChatGPT as a supplementary learning tool. These tools can help explain concepts, provide coding examples, and offer guidance when children encounter challenges.
13. Scratch, then Python, then Unity: Consider a progressive learning path that starts with visual programming in Scratch, then advances to text-based languages like Python, and finally moves to more advanced development environments like Unity. This gradual progression allows children to build upon their coding skills incrementally and explore a range of programming concepts.
The misguided idea of preparing kids for future jobs.
Much of the emphasis in reforming the current education system has centered around preparing kids for jobs of the future. But the reality is that we don’t know what future jobs will bring. And a lucrative career is no guarantee of a happy life, or one that makes a meaningful impact in a local or global community. As much as we’d like to prepare kids for jobs of the future, we don’t know what those jobs will be, so the best we can do is help them learn to recognize their strengths, develop the will to grow where they’re weak, and adapt to a changing world.
If your kid is excited to learn to code, then by all means nurture that passion. Otherwise, it’s ok to let it be.
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What the future of work will mean for jobs, skills, and wages: Jobs lost, jobs gained | McKinsey
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