If you have kids, then you may have heard that learning to read and write code can fast track your child to future success. But if you know the importance of coding...what’s next? Reading and writing code, like anything else, takes practice and patience to learn. Becoming a “good coder” takes time. However, there are many benefits for kids that will make it worth the investment.

3 Reasons to Learn the Language of Coding

1. Coding Teaches Problem Solving: Reading and writing code is a cause-and-effect activity (e.g. if I do this, then this can happen). However, when plans don’t work out, children are able to investigate why. The fear of failure increases anxiety in children, so giving them the space to try shows them failure isn’t a bad thing. Since problem solving is a lifelong skill, teaching it early will only benefit them.
2. Coding Encourages a Growth Mindset: Having a growth mindset means you believe that, with time and practice, you can improve at a task. It refers to how we face problems and challenges. Learning to read and write code encourages resilience and gives students a challenge for them to conquer.
3. Coding Shows Children That Math Can Be Fun: Learning to read and write code involves many different math skills including organizing and analyzing data. Children can improve their math skills without even realizing it.

At What Age Should Children Learn How to Code?

Research has shown that children are best suited to learn a second language at a young age, since creativity, critical thinking skills and flexibility of the mind are significantly higher. Often when we think of “language”, the first thing that comes to mind is a speaking language (French, Spanish, etc.). However, coding is also a type of language, and teaching children how to read and write code when they are young develops many skills. As with learning a new language, it is best to have guidance through some sort of a program when children are learning to read and write code.

Don’t worry! If your teen has not learned to code, it is not too late. Hatch Coding makes coding age appropriate for all students, grades 3-12. Whether your child is learning disabled or gifted, Hatch offers something for all levels of learning. Students will have an entry point regardless of their skill and understanding.

Give Your Child an Advantage in Our Tech-Filled World

References:
https://www.parentingideas.com.au/blog/how-to-encourage-kids-to-be-problem-solvers

https://www.understood.org/en/friends-feelings/empowering-your-child/building-on-strengths/growth-mindset

http://developingchild.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Enhancing-and-Practicing-Executive-Function-Skills-with-Children-from-Infancy-to-Adolescence-1.pdf

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