It can be hard to keep up with all the educational terms that float your way, but one that you should pay attention to is programming literacy. Programming literacy is the ability to read, write and modify computer code in order to create or modify software and media channels.  Programming/coding is considered to be one of the most important skills for the future.

6 Stages of Literacy and How They Relate to Technology

J.S. Chall describes 6 fundamental stages of literacy from 0 (birth to 6) to 5 (adult). At each stage people are capable of learning literacy skills like (depending on the stage) naming letters of the alphabet, reading to gain knowledge, and reading for fun and/or professional purposes. At each stage people are also capable of learning programming literacy, like using video conferencing apps to connect toddlers with family and friends, using online maps to increase spatial and geographic awareness, and creating apps and computer programs. So a young child that can learn the mechanics of coding, can become literate at both.

What Will the Future Bring for Programming Literacy?

The gig economy, where people choose freelance or contract work, has changed the way we work. The ability to work wherever, whenever, is very attractive to millennials and Gen Z. It gives people the opportunity to make their own schedules and creates a better work/life balance. Your kid’s generation will probably feel the same way about their careers. The gig economy is estimated to be 43% by the end of 2020. Giving your child the chance to learn to read and write code will open up so many more doors for them, whether they choose to join the gig economy, or choose a more traditional role in their career. Computer coding for kids teaches skills beyond just programming - it has amazing benefits for now and the future.

• Creativity
• Problem solving
• Teamwork
• Critical thinking

Don’t Let Your Child Get Behind Before They Have Even Begun

References:

https://youtu.be/xfBWk4nw440

https://www.theliteracybug.com/stages-of-literacy

https://www.fastcompany.com/3066905/how-the-gig-economy-will-change-in-2017