Technology is rapidly evolving and making massive strides. As such, Coding for kids presents many opportunities, especially for children. Coding may sound too technical and an element of Information Technology, but that is not the case. On the other hand, Coding is more similar to initiating communication with a computer through Java, Python, and C++. Coding programmers assign computers a set of instructions to be followed. These coders can develop various apps, games, websites, and software programs. According to a research report by UNICEF, over 87% of children in high-income countries have access to the internet at home.[1] This indicates the reach and popularity of the internet among children and as such, they must reap its benefits, mainly through learning the process of Coding.
Percentage of children and young people with internet access at home, by country income group
What are the benefits of Coding?
Coders have a competitive edge and a bright future!
Coding offers a competitive advantage to its learners. It can enable them to surpass their peers when applying for universities or looking for jobs. Coding is essential expertise in the future because it is a core part of the digital revolution. According to research, employment in computer and information technology occupations will add 668,000 jobs by 2030. The growth rate of jobs in the computer and IT industry will stand at 13.4%, which is incredibly more remarkable than the 7.7% growth for jobs in other industries. In addition, the jobs in the IT sector will also be one of the highest-paid.[2]
Employment projections for the occupations
Boost critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Learning computer programming can enhance the cognitive development of children. For example, programming enables kids to remember a process known as ‘decomposition’; this includes breaking down complex problems into smaller parts to create basic scripts. It is a highly significant skill that kids can employ in their daily lives when confronting a problem. Similarly, programmers need to identify a problem, analyze it, present and test the solution. Students can improve their critical thinking, logic, and problem-solving skills by practicing these techniques.
Improve creativity
It may sound bizarre to read that Coding improves creativity. But it is pretty accurate. As computer programming is technical, it may come as a surprise to know that it can also nurture creativity in kids. Kids who have mastered the skill of developing games, apps, and websites, can produce interactive content by creating lines of existing code. The outline for these codes is the brainchild of one’s creative imagination.
Coding teaches patience and determination
Coding requires its creators to be extremely meticulous with their work; otherwise, a tiny error could render an entire script useless. Likewise, when confronted with a problem, the thorough process of developing a coding language teaches patience and determination. The ability to display resilience enables kids to shine in any field, whether professional or personal.
Boost academic performance
Kids who learn to code also engage in planning, writing, and problem-solving, which results in enhanced academic performance. It will also stimulate the mathematical development of kids as they will be able to apply maths in real-world scenarios.
Coding beats boredom
Coding not only offers educational enrichment, but it also tends to be amusing and offers satisfaction. Developing games, apps, and websites is fun and can be effective at beating boredom.
Conclusion
We have highlighted the significance of coding for kids. Our dependence on electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops has made them an intrinsic part of our lives. Therefore it would be apt to learn how to communicate with these devices through coding. It would be appropriate to teach kids early on how to become coders and polish their mental skills by the time they graduate from school. They are willing to embark on a fulfilling professional career.
References:
[1] “How Many Children and Young People Have Internet Access at Home?” UNICEF DATA.
[2] “IT Jobs Projected to Continue Strong Growth over the Next Decade” Staffing Industry
