How to Teach (and Learn) to Code with Kids
Whether or not your child’s dreams include a career in STEM, coding is a valuable skill to practice. Through coding and Computational Thinking, young kids can learn how to problem-solve, manage frustration, and create the same technologies they consume in modern society.
What is Coding?
Coding is how we communicate with technology. People use code to build and run websites, apps, video games, and other technologies. Learning to code is similar to learning a new language. It takes time, practice, and the willingness to make mistakes to become literate in coding. Learn more at Code.org.
How to Teach (and Learn) to Code with Kids
If you have little to no experience with coding, never fear. Learning to code along with your child is actually a great way to model a growth mindset. Your willingness to try something new, make mistakes, and persevere through frustrating moments, will speak volumes to your child about the importance of flexibility in learning.
The STEM team at foundry10, an educational research organization, surveyed elementary school teachers participating in a professional development course about computational thinking and coding. Teachers learned along with their students by taking risks, making mistakes, and problem-solving together.
Foundry10 Research: STEM Professional Development for K-5 Teachers
“The more accepting I am that its okay to fall on my face in front of my kids, the more risks I will take!” — Teacher in Professional Development course
Here‘s the rundown on our favorite resources for learning to code at home with your child.
Independent Coding: Hour of Code
The Hour of Code series is a great place to start for first time coders. Featuring 60 minute tutorials designed for all ages, the online activities introduce a coding concept and walk you through putting that concept into action.
Hour of Code activities are available for students who are still learning to read up to high schoolers. Once your student is set up with an Hour of Code activity, there is minimal parent intervention required. The tutorials often will walk students through troubleshooting.
Co-learning: Scratch
If your student has already done Hour of Code tutorials and is ready to code without step by step guidance, Scratch is a great next step. Scratch is an online hosted visual block coding platform. Students can build and create in an open space. Your child may need more direction to get started in Scratch, and some parent intervention may be necessary to troubleshoot challenges. To get your child engaged with Scratch, try coding their favorite Tik Tok dance or creating a short animated cartoon.
Unplugged: For the Whole Family
If you’re looking for an activity to get your whole family engaged in computational thinking, but want to step away from the screen, try some of Code.org’s “unplugged” coding activities. These no-device activities highlight coding concepts using everyday materials. Unplugged activities can be led by a parent or, you might take turns, encouraging your child to lead the activity.
Dive in and give it a try!
For more on foundry10 research and programs, visit foundry10.org.
