Scratch or Python: With which programming language your kids should start the journey to code?
In recent years, there has been a dramatic growth in the number of parents choosing to teach coding to kids as young as 7, as opposed to earlier times when it was considered only a professional skill. In the vast world of coding, it might be difficult to figure out which language to start with when it concerns kids. According to Wikipedia, there are over 700 programming languages, thus the confusion is highly understandable.
Two of the most highly recommended programming languages that are thought to be excellent for kids are Scratch and Python. Now, choosing one of the two to introduce to your kid might be tough.
Here are some features of both the languages that might help you choose which is best for your kids.
- Block based programming v/s text based programming
Block-based programming is a type of programming language that does not need the developer to write a single line of code. To build a functional programme, the developer gives commands just by dragging and dropping blocks. This helps to avoid syntax mistakes, and the need to learn syntax. Scratch is a block-based programming language that is an excellent option for kids to capture interest and begin their coding journey.
Text-based programming is a type of programming language that requires the developer to write lines of code, memorise syntax and other rules to create a functional program. Python is a text-based programming language that gives a variety of real-world challenges that assist kids in learning how to solve challenges. As a result, it can serve as the next and more professional language to teach after Scratch.
2. Easy to create a project
Scratch has a very visually appealing interface that allows kids to simply explore themselves or with a little assistance to develop projects. Because it is a block-based language, kids may create their first simple project after a few minutes of exploring. As a result, ideal programming for kids.
Python, on the other hand, has a clean and elegant interface that allows for simple navigation and project creation. Because it is a text-based language, it has an infinite scope, and kids can create their first project only if they have previously learnt some of the syntax and writing style, making it more complex and time consuming than Scratch.
3. Build Logical Skills
Scratch is a fun and fascinating approach to learn basic programming concepts and a great option to foster logical thinking in kids. It does not, however, place the kids in a real-world challenging scenario.
Python is a more sophisticated, highly professional programming language that places the kid in a demanding, real-world situation. It helps in the development of cognitive abilities, such as critical thinking, problem solving, and logical reasoning.
4. Applications of Scratch and Python
Although scratch is a programming language, it is not used to create large applications or to tackle real-world problems. It allows kids to create stunning art, animated stories and games. It also allows kinesthetic learners who participate in hands-on projects to integrate Scratch with VEX robots.
Python, on the other hand, provides kids with limitless project opportunities and real-world issues. It is widely used in the development of web, desktop, and mobile applications as well as in AI, Data Science, Machine learning systems and more. It is used by major technology giants such as Google, Facebook, Amazon, IBM and more.
- Both languages are ideal and a great option for kids and beginners. The age of the kid plays an important factor in choosing the one. Scratch is suitable for early middle school and younger coders, whereas Python is best for middle school and older coders.
- Both languages have huge online support and vast resources. There are abundant tutorials, instructional materials, blogs, and forums that can help in the learning process and get specialisation.
- Both languages have a strong developer community and thousands of developers around the world that contribute to and support several open source projects.
To conclude, the language to teach kids depends on their age and interest. ALLEN IntelliBrain has a team of childhood development specialists that have extensively explored both languages and related it to the creation of Grade-wise courses. The Course includes teaching Scratch programming to young kids and beginners, whereas Python programming for kids who are considerably older and have already mastered the concept of coding. The Classes are considered as some of the best and most highly rated coding for kids in Grades 1 to 8 (and above).
