The world is rapidly evolving to be dependent on technology. Every other day there are new developments in the field of technology that are bound to change the world and our lives for the better. In such a changing scenario, computer literacy becomes one of the most essential skills for the younger generation to learn. And the best way to get into computer literacy in today’s age is to learn to code. Learning to code does not only make you familiar with the basic concept and functionalities of the computer. But it also teaches you multidisciplinary skills such as critical thinking, creativity, self-motivation, problem-solving attitude and much more.
Learning to code can help kids develop these skills and be successful in computer applications as well as in personal and professional life.
Let’s take a look at some of the key skills kids develop while learning to code:
Problem-solving skills
The primary skills kids pick up on while learning to code are problem-solving skills. The entire concept of coding is based on solving problems and being able to get from point A to point B. Just as in the real world, there can be a range of ways to solve an issue. Coding requires one to be able to think of different ways to get around a problem. Coding requires one to be able to find an efficient and simple problem for each task.
When kids learn to find new ways to find an efficient solution to a problem, they are, in turn, honing their problem-solving skills.
While learning to code, kids will face many problems that will require them to think out-of-the-box and come up with the most suitable solutions.
Patience
Coding is not difficult to learn but it requires dedication and patience on the part of the learner. While coding, things won’t always run smoothly and kids would have to be patient and committed to finding the solutions. Kids might even run into a roadblock and be frustrated with error code or lapse in syntax. More often than not, these issues have to do with simple mistakes while writing codes but sometimes it requires an overhaul of the entire process. By dealing with such situations, kids learn to be patient, calm and collected in the face of setbacks. This, in turn, helps them come out of any predicament with ease and finesse.
Read More- Top 6 Robotics Development that will Impact the Future in the Coming Years
Creativity
Creativity is at the core of coding. Most of the technological advancements we see today including dynamic websites, interactive app, and intriguing games have come into reality with the help of imagination and creativity. Every coding project requires creative thinking and an out-of-the-box approach. When kids learn to code, they undertake all these elements and are able to hone their creative skills through the process. There are several platforms such as Roblox and Minecraft that teach kids the basics of coding in a creative way. Children can also explore their creativity by creating apps, websites, and games with Scratch, Python, and Blockly.
Writing
Writing code follows a lot of principles of writing a story. While coding, you have to select the key points of your idea, put them in a certain order to make the story harmonious, and delivery them in an effective and comprehensible manner. Kids learning to code have to follow these steps to make the program run smoothly. Just as in writing, coding requires simplicity in approach. If the code is complicated, it is difficult to follow and make it into a program. One of the best coding platforms to learn to code and strengthen one’s writing skills is Python as it has simpler syntaxes that are similar to everyday English.
Self-motivation
Since coding teaches a lot of extracurricular skills to kids, it also helps them enhance their self-motivation and confidence. When kids hone their critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, they grow confident in their approach to coding classes for kids. There are a lot of online classes that make it requisite for kids to master discipline and research skills, which, in turn, enhances their self-motivation and confidence.
Read More- Why Should Teens Learn Coding and How to Get Started
Teamwork
The process of creating a program is a team effort. While the stereotype with coding states that most programmers tend to work alone for hours. But when it comes to creating something effective and efficient out of programming. It most often than not requires a collective effort. Most tech companies such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon have many coders and programmers working in sync. While learning to code, kids develop their collaborative and communication skills and expand on their knowledge by working together and getting insights from each other.
Attention to detail
Computer programming requires attention to the smallest of the details. This means kids must pay special attention to every line of code they write. Often, these small details also make up for the most frustrating aspect of coding. As they could one could easily look over them and end up annoyed for not being able to find the cause of the issue. However, this also helps them get better at paying attention and noticing the smallest details. Such attention to detail also comes in handy in day to day life of a person. On both personal and professional fronts.
Abstract thinking
Abstract thinking is the ability to absorb information using our senses and make relevant connections to the wider world. Text-based coding is one of the best stimulants of abstract thinking. While visual programming makes use of images and visuals to let the programmer see the results of their action instantly. Text-based coding does not give immediate output and can be harder for children to make sense of. Nevertheless, with constant practice, kids can develop their abstract thinking and be able to outline ideas and concepts in their heads.
