Programming, boot camps, and computer education are heavily required in the future job market. This is why teaching your kid to code is quickly becoming popular. Starting your child on their coding journey is a sure way to give them an excellent set of skills that will serve them well.
But how do you show them that coding isn’t dull? How do you get them to cane with it? What is great computer technology and its language for kids to learn? What programs, courses, and boot camps are worth your while? These are just some questions we will look at and answer in this coding Bootcamp for Kids article.
What is coding?
Computer programming, at its core, means telling a computer to carry out instructions.
You write the commands using a computer language, like Java, Python, C++, SWIFT, or JavaScript.
Each language has its pros and cons for carrying out tasks. If a language wasn’t up to the job, a new one was created that would. Computer games are usually coded in Java or C++, while databases may be created using PHP or SQL.
You may be surprised to know that many of the concepts and syntax are the same. Knowing just one language can allow you to learn another one quickly.
Why should you teach kids to code?
Learning to code is possibly one of the most vital skills needed for the future.
This doesn’t mean that every child should grow up to become a software developer. There are plenty of non-coding-related jobs that aren’t going anywhere. (Bootcamps) However, knowing how to code can grant your child several benefits to help them grow and develop.
- Learning a foreign language as an adult is challenging work. For kids, the younger they learn a language, the easier it is for them to pick up. Learning to code is like learning a foreign language; the earlier, the better for the kids!
- Steve Jobs is famous for saying, “Coding teaches you how to think.” What did he mean by that? Coding requires knowledge and skills beyond learning a programming language. It requires knowledge of maths, critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork.
- Some hi-tech sectors may have as many as 3.5 million unfulfilled jobs in 2021, and it’s expected to rise even further.
- On average, software and computer engineering positions pay way more than other jobs. The Bureau of Labor lists the median pay for software engineers at $103,560 per year, and it’s expected to rise by as much as 24% until 2026.
- Computers are needed in nearly every industry, and sectors like healthcare and construction are rapidly shifting more and more towards online services and utilizing the cloud.
What is a Bootcamp for kids, and at what age can they start learning to code?
You can start cultivating your kids to learn coding from age five. If this seems too young, don’t forget that kids at this age can soak up information like a new language much more quickly than adults. Plus, there are block-like languages that are more visual than other languages and perfect for younger children.
Many boot camps and programs have gamified their curriculum to make the experience as fun as possible and to help ensure kids stay motivated and engaged when learning to code. They also use a project and research-based approach using games, mobile apps, and other child-orientated methods.
Types of learning methods for kids
A coding boot camp for kids is a training program catered explicitly toward younger students. Intense Bootcamp for adults isn’t suitable for younger students as they’re too intensive and require too much time. (Bootcamps).
There are multiple ways to sign your kids up for coding classes. Here are the most typical ones:
Online classes
Convenient and usually offer both self-paced courses or live tuition. This Self-paced learning is great in terms of convenience, especially when you both have a busy routine. If you want your kids to get the most out of their time, look for online courses with online support, such as live teaching or mentor support, which they can turn to for any questions or problems.
Camps
Tech camps have risen in popularity in recent years. It’s a great way to get your kids interested in coding by letting them socialize with other like-minded children. Finding time during the school year can be tricky. Some tech camps offer winter and summer options when there’s no school. These are the closest ‘boot camp experiences available for young kids interested in coding. (Bootcamps).
Do It Yourself (DIY)
You can purchase several high-quality books online or from bookstores that tackle different programming languages for kids. If your child prefers a more hands-on approach to learning, consider purchasing a robotics kit. There are also subscription kits available that send a weekly or monthly package to unwrap and learn how to implement and use.
A good idea is to identify the type of content your child enjoys. If they enjoy learning from videos, many YouTube tutorials or online classes with pre-recorded videos exist.
Suppose they prefer to get their hands dirty and physically touch components as they learn. In that case, there are computer-building and robotic kits.
Do they enjoy the social aspect of learning? In that case, finding a winter or summer camp may be your best decision.
List of free and paid learning programs, resources, classes, boot camps, apps, and more
We’ve compiled a list of excellent tools and programs you can introduce to your child to help them start their programming education. They’re a mix of free and paid courses, apps, classes, online videos, and boot camps for kids aged 5+.
Coding and Programming Learning Platforms For Kids:
1. Scratch
Scratch is a visual programming language and online community where users can create interactive stories, games, and animations by coding with blocks.
2. Scratch Junior
Designed for younger children, Scratch Junior is a simplified version of Scratch that introduces coding concepts through a visual and child-friendly interface.
3. Codeable Crafts
Codeable Crafts combines coding with craft projects, allowing kids to create interactive art and craft projects while learning programming concepts.
4. Robot Turtles
Robot Turtles is a board game that introduces programming concepts to young children in a fun and engaging way, promoting logical thinking and problem-solving.
5. SpriteBox
SpriteBox is an educational platform that teaches coding concepts through a game-based approach, using puzzles and challenges to build programming skills.
6. HopScotch
HopScotch is an app enabling kids to learn coding by creating games and animations using a visual programming language.
7. Code.org
Code.org is a nonprofit organization that provides free coding lessons, resources, and interactive activities to make coding accessible for students worldwide.
8. CodaKid
CodaKid offers online coding courses for kids, teaching programming through game development, Minecraft modding, and other engaging projects.
9. Tynker
Tynker is an educational platform that teaches coding through interactive games and activities, covering various programming languages.
10. Osmo Coding
Osmo Coding is an interactive game that combines physical coding blocks with a digital interface, allowing kids to learn programming concepts hands-on.
11. Wonder Workshop Dash and Dot Robotics Kits
Dash and Dot are programmable robots that encourage hands-on learning and creativity, teaching kids to code through various interactive activities.
12. Khan Academy
Khan Academy offers free online courses in various subjects, including computer programming, focusing on making learning accessible to everyone.
13. Bitsbox
Bitsbox is a subscription service that delivers coding projects to kids monthly, allowing them to build real apps and games using a simplified coding language.
14. CodeMonkey
CodeMonkey is an educational platform that teaches coding through game-based learning, offering a fun and interactive way for kids to learn programming.
15. Code Combat
Code Combat is a platform that gamifies coding education, letting users learn programming by playing through coding challenges in a real programming language.
16. Stencyl
Stencyl is a game development platform that enables users to create games without coding but also offers a visual scripting language for those who want to code.
17. Kodable
Description: Kodable is designed for younger kids and introduces basic programming concepts through a game-based learning approach, teaching coding logic and problem-solving.
18. App Inventor
Description: App Inventor is a visual development environment that allows users to create Android apps using a drag-and-drop interface, making app development accessible.
19. Code Avengers
Description: Code Avengers provides interactive online coding courses for kids and beginners, covering various programming languages and web development.
20. Code Monster
Description: Code Monster is an interactive coding tutorial that introduces basic programming concepts through a step-by-step approach, suitable for beginners.
21. GameBlox
Description: GameBlox is a visual programming platform that allows users to create their own games by snapping together code blocks, making game development accessible to beginners.
22. Codemoji
Description: Codemoji is an online learning platform that teaches coding through emoji-based exercises, making it engaging and accessible for kids.
23. Lightbot
Description: Lightbot is a puzzle game that teaches programming logic and problem-solving skills through guiding a robot to solve challenges using programming commands.
24. Glitch
Description: Glitch is an online coding platform that allows users to create web applications collaboratively, making it easy for beginners to learn and experiment with coding.
25. Code HS
Description: Code HS offers comprehensive coding courses for high school students, covering various programming languages and computer science concepts.
26. Vidcode
Description: Vidcode is an online platform that combines coding with video editing, allowing students to create interactive videos while learning programming.
27. CodeWizardsHQ
Description: CodeWizardsHQ provides online coding classes for kids and teens, offering live, instructor-led sessions to teach coding and computer science.
What are the best programming languages for kids?
Choosing a programming language for a child to learn heavily depends on their age. Here’s a short selection of the most relevant ones to consider.
Visual blocks
Your top bet is choosing a visual block language if they’re in the middle age of five to eight. Rather than the lines of coding, this program is created by the graphical blocks, which the kids can drop and drag codes and sort into the place to begin working on code. The blocks are also colored differently to help differentiate them and make it easy for kids to identify their purpose. By doing this, the kids don’t have to type any words and get to grips with syntax without knowing or learning any type of language formally.
HTML and CSS
Suppose your kid has a keen interest in building websites. In that case, they’ll want to take a web development course focusing on HTML and CSS, as these are the building blocks of any website. Compared to other languages, HTML and CSS are relatively simple and can be learned quickly and at a young age.
JavaScript or Swift
Building a mobile app is very different from building a website; it doesn’t need any HTML or CSS. If your child wants to code their apps, they should learn a language like JavaScript or Swift. Many front-end developers also use JavaScript to add functionality to websites. Swift is a mobile app language created by Apple. If you want to make iOS apps, you must learn Swift. There are many online resources for both languages, and Swift has its dedicated learning app developed by Apple aimed at children.
Python
Python language is a great program for kids. While it’s a high-level programming language, it’s powerful, easy to read, and can create many things. Kids from 10+ are probably ready to tackle Python and enter the programming world.
Tips to get the most out of your kid’s coding Bootcamp and learning adventure
Kids can be fickle at the best times, so you’ll want to check out these tips to help your child reach their full learning potential.
Don’t make it boring.
Learning to code shouldn’t feel like another class in school or just another bunch of homework at home. It should be relaxed, interesting and exciting! Don’t bother signing them up for academic-focused classes, especially avoid adult-oriented classes.
The trick is finding an engaging course without being too challenging and mundane. If your child dreads their next coding lesson, they won’t take it seriously or stick with it for long.
Some more exciting programs know what kids want to do with their coding skills, like learning to create a new sword in Minecraft or creating an app that makes funny sounds when pressed.
What learning method works best for your child?
Some kids learn best with a one-on-one tutor. Others thrive in group exercises. Maybe your kid can’t get enough of learning from fun YouTube videos. Coding for young children is growing in popularity, and the number of offline and online options continues to grow.
Talk to other kids’ parents and see if they’d be interested in hiring a tutor to teach a group simultaneously. This way, you can get specialized teaching, and it’s local, too.
Find your child a role mentor.
Finding and Giving a role model or a mentor will be a great way to go along for your kid. It could be a family friend who is a programmer, a teacher, a work colleague, or even a professional tutor.
With a mentor, it’s easy for your child to talk to them about their learning adventure and turn to them when they need help. It helps and motivates the child when they feel their mentor is also interested in the same things.
Know when to stop.
Forcing your child to learn something he doesn’t want to usually doesn’t end well and may just end up wasting everybody’s time and your hard-earned money. Take it slow, and don’t rush too hard or fast to get your child programming. It’s a long journey with many bumps along the way.
Think of it as learning the piano. It takes lots of practice and discipline to perfect, and it doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a skill that develops slowly over time, and it’s ok to take breaks and come back to it after a short while when it’s too much of a burden.