Learning Python for Kids is an Essential 21st Century Skill

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Parents with children growing up in a digital world in the twenty-first century are worried. The constant advancements make them question what they can do to help their children prepare for the many academic hurdles they will face while also ensuring that they have a successful career. One answer to this is coding.

The ability to code has become increasingly crucial as technology has advanced through time. For kids, there are numerous advantages to coding that extend well beyond the usage of a computer. While many people think of coding as a highly technical ability, it is more similar to learning a new language but computing. A language that will soon be used daily.

We're not suggesting that you force your kid to suit up and hunt for computer science jobs right away. But since coding is the future and can be really enjoyable for children, why not start from the basics? Python is an essential skill now because it is one of the simplest places, to begin with, and the benefits it will bring about in the child's life now and future!

Learning Python for Kids

What Is Python, And Why Start Here?

Python is a programming language for computers. It's simple to pick up and may be used to create a wide range of computer programs. Python is used to create games, internet tools, and web pages. Python resembles a combination of comprehensible words and characters, making it simple to read and comprehend for humans.

Simplicity

It might be challenging to introduce novice coders to their first textual computer language. Many textual programming languages have a complex, inconvenient syntax that can discourage children from learning to code.

Python, however, is a simple programming language to learn when relative to other programming languages. Python's syntax is simple, so it is considered a language suited for both novices and experts. In addition, Python comes with several tools that make creating apps a breeze.

Easy Installation

Setting up programming environments can be generally challenging, but Python is easy to set up at home. For example, Python can be set up in three simple steps on Windows.

  1. Visit https://www.python.org/downloads/ to get the software. Remember to choose the most recent version of the software that is compatible with your operating system.
  2. Simply run the installer after your download is complete.
  3. New files will appear on your computer once the installation is complete. One of these will be a Python interpreter, translating your human-readable Python code into machine-readable commands.

Available resources 

Everyone can use Python for free. You are not required to purchase the software. Python libraries are efficient and straightforward to use, and there are many enjoyable libraries for young learners to enjoy. 

One of the finest examples is the "turtle" library, similar to a drawing board for children. It is very consumer-friendly for novices to draw and chart with just a few code lines. Interesting Python game programming libraries, such as "PursuedPyBear," can also be used by kids to create their own games in a simple method.

Can Help with Academics

We believe that learning Python may help youngsters enhance and develop numerous aspects of their educational curriculum, such as mathematics, writing, and innovation.

Python commands are written in simple English, which might help your child develop their writing skills. Python teaches kids how to use critical reasoning to create simple and practical solutions. Python will also aid your child's arithmetic skills, as coding allows children to visualize more complex ideas in a fun way, allowing them to integrate math into real-world issues.

Growing Demand

It's crucial to consider if any coding language that children are learning will still be used in the future as they get older. As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for developers is projected to accelerate at a pace of 22% between 2019 and 2029.

After 2029, the pace is predicted to rise further, and the technical knowledge requirements for non-developer jobs are expected to climb significantly. Thus, mastering programming, beginning with Python, appears to be an enticing trend towards a better and more stable future.

Learning Python for Kids

How Do Children Benefit Now?

Now that you know why Python should be your starting point, let's discuss how children benefit from it. Gone are the days when learning to code took a long time or was introduced in adult life. It is normal to see children being taught to code nowadays. People have begun to recognize the skills python teaches.

Problem-solving

In coding, students must solve real-world problems and develop the most practical solution. Working on a code problem forces kids to think critically and creatively. They don't just look for answers; they use various methods to find the best solution to an issue. Regular coding practice improves children's problem-solving abilities. 

These abilities will help students in class, with their friends, future employment, and everyday lives. In addition, learning to code can also help youngsters prepare for future endeavors since many firms seek people with strong problem-solving capabilities.

Structural Thinking

Students who learn to code build structural thinking skills. For example, they find a way to put together a large structure from many smaller parts. This not only helps youngsters learn computer programs, but it also helps them see the broader picture when they are given a task with multiple minor elements.

Logic and Rationale

When faced with a coding challenge, students must choose the most logical solution. As a result, coding practice aids in the development of rational reasoning in children. This is a valuable ability to have when learning disciplines like science and mathematics. 

In the long term, critical analysis will be examined on most entrance tests. Logic and rationale tie in with the last skill discussed. Kids can improve their problem-solving skills by using logical thinking.

Patience and Confidence

Most children will make numerous errors while working on coding issues. This is to be expected during the process of learning. A coding class teaches you to keep attempting to fix the problem patiently. Determination is developed in children in trying to discover an answer after failing continuously. 

When children ultimately solve the challenge, their self-esteem soars. Confidence and commitment are life traits that will benefit them in their education, social lives, and future careers.

Mathematics

Contrary to popular belief, students who want to pursue computer programming must not be mathematicians. Of course, they require a certain level of math skills, but they will acquire those necessary skills as they learn to code. 

Coding requires kids to solve real problems rather than filling out a worksheet with arithmetic calculations, so they receive real-world experience that will help them enhance their math skills.

How Will Children Benefit Later?

Considering the pace at which the demand for programmers and coding skills is increasing, Python is here to stay. Learning Python will help accelerate and stimulate a child's mental growth and open a world of possibilities in terms of future prospects. Some of the career opportunities are:

  1. Data Scientist: This is a person who studies data. They are a highly competent group of individuals that should be familiar with how to handle data and statistical procedures and algorithms.
  2. Python Programmer: They are Python specialists who use Python to create applications.
  3. Data Analyst: Data analysts examine a variety of data sources to generate data-driven conclusions. They assist companies in making decisions based on their research findings.
  4. Game Developer: In the video game industry, creative thinking and innovation go hand in hand. While C++, Java, and other programming languages are popular in gaming, Python is also widely utilized. Python provides several libraries that aid in the creation of video games.
Learning Python for Kids

Where to Begin?

To learn a new language, you must get your kid familiar with some core programming concepts and terminology. These are always the first steps in learning any programming language. This may sound like a complex task, but games and animations can open the educational gateway. 

Luckily, there are many online tools with games, videos, or interactive learning resources available. Once your child is interested and hooked, you may move on to having them take structural classes. 

Minecraft is famous as a game, but it also has an "Educational Version" in which children may learn programming techniques and how to code in Python using interactive blocks while creating their personal virtual world!

Code Combat is an interactive game that introduces children to coding essentials, including Python. All of the game's core levels are available to play, so let your children experience the enjoyment of coding through computer games!

The Takeaway!

Introduce Python programming to your children as early as possible. It will not only help them with their academics, but it may also pave the road for a great future job. In fact, the three most desired traits for recruiters are creativity, problem-solving, and technological literacy – all of which can be developed through learning python.

Python is, therefore, no less than an essential 21st-century skill. Even if your children do not intend to pursue computer programming in the future, knowing Python now will enable them to acquire useful skills. Python class for kids

Geek Team

Geekedu is an expert in Coding and Math learning. Our goal is to inspire and empower youth to use their knowledge of technology to become the influencers, inventors and innovators of the future.

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