Coding: a skill every child should learn!

What is coding?

Simply put, it is the language of computers. It is how we communicate with computers, giving them instructions and telling them what actions to take. With this skill, you can create websites and apps, and process data, along with a lot of other mind-blowing things.

But what does this have to do with children you might ask? Well, at first glance it does seem a bit intimidating, and we might think that a child’s mind cannot grasp such difficult information. However, according to a Stack Overflow survey, 9% of developers said to have started coding before their 10th birthday. 

The fact is that there are several benefits to teaching children to code at a young age, and here are a few of the most relevant ones.

Top 4 reasons children should learn to code

Let’s face it, the world is no longer as it was, children are basically born with a smartphone in their hands. Coding is no longer just reserved for the computer wizard or the technologically savvy. Today the youngest member of your family can learn it.

Coding builds confidence and communication skills

What makes our laptops, smartphones, or video games work? Most of us have no idea! Providing our children with the right tech-focused education will catapult them into the world with the confidence they need to navigate it.

Plus, coding teaches children that no problem is unsolvable, and that with perseverance and teamwork, they can overcome any obstacle. Now that’s something we believe each one of us wishes we could have learned early on.

Coding stimulates creativity

Creativity is something every educator and parent tries to foster, and every job recruiter looks for in employees. Yet, it’s a skill that needs nurturing, otherwise, it will be difficult to find.

Children tend to be creative, but how do we make sure they don’t lose that creativity? With coding, children become creators and world builders, constantly experimenting and asking questions. They are encouraged to tell stories and create original programs which empower them to combine their logical and systematic thinking with creative, artistic, and intuitive learning. 

Coding teaches problem-solving skills

Coding and computer science involve employing the fundamental concepts of mathematics to solve logical puzzles. A good way to introduce young children to problem-solving techniques is through simple coding projects. Coders acquire the ability to simplify difficult issues, and this prepares students to handle challenges that they may encounter in life, whether in the classroom or at the workplace.

Coding prepares students for the future job market 

Finally, to wrap up this list, let’s talk about how coding skills lead to better job prospects. Digital literacy is essential in this day and age, as coding skills skills are vital for professions in computer science and coding. Not only that, but many other professions will require some coding skills in the future as well, as our world is now predominantly driven by technology. Furthermore, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 21 percent increase in job vacancies for software developers between 2018 and 2028, which is more than four times the average rate for all occupations.

Let’s code!

Teaching children to code is like teaching them a new language, and just as we have never known a world without language, today’s children have never known one without digital devices. It only makes sense then that they should learn how to code, alongside mandatory subjects such as English and Math. 

Therefore, coding is undoubtedly one of the most beneficial skills for your youngster to learn, especially that it fosters their determination, ability to communicate, creativity, and higher-order thinking.

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Better yet, book a free trial and get started right away.