Importance of Coding in Early Education
Importance of Coding in Early Education
As we reach a technological peak, it’s becoming exceedingly important to gain fluency in programming and coding. According to Mitchel Resnick, Director of the Lifelong Kindergarten group at the MIT Media Lab, “Coding is the new literacy. To thrive in tomorrow’s society, young people must learn to design, create and express themselves with digital technologies.” What once was a luxury, has since become a necessity for staying afloat during the age of technology. Learning to code at an early age seems much more taxing than it actually is. Stay ahead of the curve by building a solid foundation at an early age.
Why?
Much like learning a new language, it is best to learn to program at a young age. Even toddlers are able to grasp the basis of coding and begin building the imperative foundation of coding. While molding children’s minds to understand reading and writing, this is the perfect time to enforce the importance of computer technology.
While not everyone may grow up to be programmers or computer scientists, understanding the basics of technology will create countless opportunities in the future. It is swiftly becoming a requirement to be computer-literate at most places of employment; in order to remain at the forefront of the competition, one must at least possess basic computer skills.
Coding allows kids to learn a new method of communication and expression. While computer programming might seem like a straightforward skill without much room for growth or creativity, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Coding teaches problem solving and analytical skills that force children to grow intellectually and think outside of the box.
Programming helps teach kids logical thinking and reasoning and opens the doors for different methods of communication, like writing or speech. During the ages of 5 and 6, children are learning to make logical decisions and practicing such skills during these developmental stages should be a priority.
How?
This all begs the question, “How do I teach young children how to code?” Fortunately, researchers have created countless apps, programs, organizations, and classes for children to learn about programming and computer technology. Look for local camps fostering activities in kids coding and get involved. Download one of the several apps designed to develop computer technology skills in young children.
Organizations such as Girls Who Code , Made with Code , and Connections Academy make it their mission to cater to the technological needs of young children of varied ages. These groups aim to build a generation of technologically fluent minds. Much like doctors, we will soon be in constant need of those who are proficient in computer programming and coding.
Our advice? Stay in the race by utilizing one of the many resources for teaching young children how to code.
About Our Sponsor
Zyrobotics is dedicated to the needs of various early education initiatives. They cater to those with unique disabilities that make it difficult to play with handheld games and tablets. Their apps and games are designed to introduce young children to STEM education. With apps that teach young children technological literacy and coding, as well as math and counting, they provide a distinct approach to an educational foundation. Personally, Mahogany Clayton, the author, has 6 younger siblings and sees the importance in teaching realistic skills at an early age.
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