When it comes to preparing our children for the future, coding is becoming an increasingly important skill to have. In this age and time,it is no longer enough for a child to just know how to access and use technology. It is important that our children understand how technology works and join in on creating and innovating. Many parents have caught the wave by recognizing and accepting the interesting times we are in and the need for their children to learn coding. However, they are in a dilemma as to the right age for their children to start coding. In this article we are going to be exploring the answer to the question of when we should start teaching children this valuable skill.
With coding just as it is for other learning endeavours, it is best to “catch them young”. Your child can start learning to code as soon as they are able to add numbers and recognize basic words and images. More precisely, your child can start coding at the young age of 4. Coding comes in levels so you do not have to worry about your children being exposed to more than their brain can handle. At Codeworld, we have three basic coding levels for your children ranging from 4 years to 17 years. The different levels of coding programs based on complexity and the ages admissible per program include;
- Early Coders- Coding with Robotics (Ages 4-7) : This is the introduction to coding fundamentals using drag and drop programmes and highly intelligent and interactive robots. Children learn to put together their own computer programmes and use drag and drop platforms to execute simple to moderate commands and projects.
- Smart Coders (Ages 7-11) : This involves the creative computing programming languages like Scratch, HTML/CSS for kids, App Inventor, Arduino IOT, etc. introduce kids to the building blocks of computer programming. Kids learn to develop their own computer programs and create innovative software applications including animation projects, websites, mobile apps, etc.
- Innovative Coders (Ages 12 -16) : In this level, Teens and Pre teens learn basic to advanced programing languages like HTML/CSS, Python and Pygames, Unity Game Development, JavaScript, C#, as well as robotics using intelligent and interactive robots and physical computing kits.
In conclusion, introducing children to coding at an early age can provide them with valuable skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. While it is advisable for children to start at the age of 4, it is never too late to start learning.As you can see different entry levels listed in this article, with the right guidance and resources, children of any age can learn to code and develop a love for technology and problem- solving.