Modern children are almost born with a smartphone, tablet and laptop in their hands. Kids who have not yet learned to speak already know how to turn on a cartoon on YouTube or start a game. Such interest in technology makes some parents wonder: what if my child is a future programmer? But how good is it to teach young children programming? And what is the best age to start? Let's figure it out.
When to start
At the age of seven, a child can learn the basics of programming. Of course, he won't be taught complicated things right away. As a rule, children begin to immerse themselves in IT by creating games, gradually moving from simple tasks to more complex ones. This is the best training format: both fun and useful.
Why does a child need programming at all
When the first children's programming schools appeared, it seemed that only parents needed them, who needed to be on trend. High salaries for IT professionals have also fueled interest in this area: who doesn't want their child to succeed in the future?
But programming is not just about making a lot of money (which, of course, is also important). Here are four more reasons why you should develop this skill.
Programming teaches you a deep understanding of technology
Hardly many people can boast that they are well versed in computers and smartphones, even though we interact with them every day. Programming helps you look at the high-tech world from the inside and get the most out of interacting with it.
Programming develops logical and creative thinking
In programming, as in everyday life, you can't go anywhere without logic. During the classroom, the child learns a special approach to problem solving, which he then uses in other areas. And by creating their own games, children develop creativity — one of the flexible skills necessary for a successful career in any professional field.
Programming fuels the desire to learn new things
According to studies, programming stimulates brain activity and improves the ability to absorb information. In addition, if the written program does not work as it should, the child tries to understand the reasons and looks for new ways to solve the problem, which also develops flexible thinking.
Programming is fun
Kids love to get stuck in games, and creating their own games is especially cool. In addition, the child sees the results of the classes in the form of the resulting development, which is the best motivation to continue studying.
How to introduce your child to programming
If you want to see if your child is interested in programming, try introducing him to the topic through YouTube video tutorials, games, and special applications. Perhaps there are children in his environment who also love technology and want to program — this will be an additional incentive to learn.
Another option is to sign up for a trial lesson at programming school. Even when parents work in IT themselves, it is not certain that they will be able to explain technical issues in simple “childish” language. And an experienced teacher will be able to present the material in such a way that the child will immediately become interested in the topic.
Let's summarize
— You can start programming from the age of seven. Children usually start by creating games and move from simple tasks to more complex ones.
— Programming classes help children better understand how technology, which has become an important part of life, works. They also develop logic and creativity, motivate them to learn new things and not be afraid to look for innovative solutions.
— You can introduce your child to programming through video tutorials or apps, or you can sign up for a trial lesson to understand how interested he is in this area.
