“Whether you want to uncover the secrets of the universe, or you just want to pursue a career in the 21st century, basic computer programming is an essential skill to learn.” – Stephen Hawking
A lot of parents are faced with the indecision of letting their kids learn to code also known as computer programming, some are concerned about the right age for their kids to start learning hence the question “AT WHAT AGE DO I INTRODUCE MY KIDS TO CODING?”.
There is no wrong or right age to start learning, but it is important to point out categorically that the best time to learn is when kids are at their tender ages, pre-teen and teenage years are great years to start learning.
Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook Founder, and CEO was in 6th grade when he started to code from the beginning it was clear he was talented. Mark’s father hired a software developer called David Newman to tutor him privately. ‘It was tough to stay ahead of him,’ Newman told the New Yorker, describing Mark as a ‘prodigy. ‘
Elon Musk got his first computer when he was nine years old. It was a Commodore VIC-20. Aside from the 5kb of memory, the computer package also came with a guide on how to program, which took him just three days to learn. In 1983, he wrote his first game at the age of 12.
Why Learn Coding at a Young Age?
The aim is not necessarily to have a little software engineer floating around the house. Just like with adults curious about programming, there are a host of practical, real-world benefits of learning how to code.
So, as much as we ask the right question of “coding and robotics for kids WHAT AGE DO I INTRODUCE MY KIDS TO CODING?” we should also inquire “what are the benefits of learning to code for kids?”
First and foremost, computer programming teaches children how to solve problems over time, a general trait that applies to all aspects of life. Even more so, children who learn how to program develop resilience, expand their creative skills, and set themselves up for an industry that needs talent.
Bill Gates once stated that “Learning to write programs stretches your mind and helps you think better, creates a way of thinking about things that I think is helpful in all domains.”
Learning computer programming at an early age sets our kids for success in life. They don’t have to end up as a software engineer, the skills that come with learning to code affects all aspects of life. Kids are creatives, they must further be exposed to activities that will open their minds and build their confidence and resilience in life.
So, kids should learn to code because:
- Coders are in high demand
- Coding provides a competitive advantage
- Students better understand the world when they learn to code
- Coding is fun and satisfying
- Creativity is improved while coding
- Kids develop high problem-solving skills when they learn to code
- Coding improves persistence and builds resilience
- Coding improves collaboration
- Many kids who code has seen improved communication skills while collaborating wiith other coders
But, Schools don’t teach kids how to code — WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Most schools do not teach computer programming, but some academies are dedicated to helping kids acquire coding skills for free or at a ridiculous fee. One such academy is Imagine Academy. Imagine Academy teaches kids between the age of 4 – 17 the art, act, and heart of coding.
The location shouldn’t bother you. They offer both virtual and physical sessions. Get out and get your kids involved. Technology is the future and exposing our kids to the idea, and the nitty-gritty of technology will fool-proof their future and life ambitions.
If children are taught to think logically and adopt a problem-solving mindset, they will understand complex concepts through coding. Even if they decide to completely move away from coding later in life, the ability to understand basic technological concepts will be invaluable in the future.
Why Imagine Academy?
Imagine Academy are tutors with decades of experience, and it’s all about the impact for us.
Over 5000 parents trust us at Imagine Academy to train their 4000 thousand kids setting records of 89% retention rates. Students are also groomed to be refined leaders and exceptional individuals. Parents, organizations, governments, and Schools trust us to handle their coding sessions using our creative and innovative teaching approach. You too should. You can enroll your kids today to fool-proof their future.