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Why Kids Should Learn Coding
- EI Editor Posted On Aug 20, 2021 | STEM Learning
There’s been a lot of buzz about kids learning to code, but what does that even mean? And isn’t coding a bit advanced for kids who are still learning to tie their shoes? Actually, learning to code is just like learning a new language—starting with a few simple terms and building on what you know. And there are so many reasons to give it a go! The Experts in Play from Educational Insights are here to tell you why every child should learn to code and to share their favorite way to get them started. Read on to learn more!
Let’s start with what coding IS. Basically, coding is the process of creating step by step instructions to accomplish a task. For example, instructing your kids to “clean their rooms” really means picking up their toys and putting them in the bin, picking up books and putting them back on the shelf, clothes in the dresser, and laundry in the hamper, etc, right?
Okay, so now let’s talk about why kids SHOULD learn to code. First, let’s take the long view. Research shows that in the next few years, there will be 3.5 million empty jobs in STEM fields* and AI and computing jobs are growing at twice the national average**. Getting your kids interested in coding early on is a great way to build the interest and confidence they’ll need to pursue one of these lucrative positions. Yup, lucrative—computer science majors can earn up to 40% more than the average college graduate**.
Now to the more near term. Coding is fun! It helps kids understand the tools they’re using every day, like video games, apps, and smart phones. Coding is also satisfying, enabling kids to learn a new skill, build on that skill, and then use their skills to bring their own, custom visions to life. Talk about a confidence-builder! And coding is creative! Coding is another material kids can use to bring their imaginations to life. Plus, like learning anything else, learning to code requires problem solving, persistence, and resilience.
All good right? If you said yes, you’re not alone. More than 75% of parents believe coding is the most important skill their child will need to succeed in the digital economy***. So how do you get your kids started? Educational Insights is making it easy, with Artie Max! This adorable coding robot combines quirky personality with cutting edge STEM technology to spark creativity and teach kids to code. And it’s easy! Simply plug Artie into your computer or iPad and connect to its built in Wi-Fi. Head to Artie’s website, select a design, then follow the instructions to drop and drag the different command blocks needed to create that design. When complete, stand back and watch as Artie Max translates your code into colorful works of art! From shapes and mazes and their own artistic masterpieces, kids build on the simple codes they learn to create more complex coding instructions using more complex coding languages including Blockly, Snap!, JavaScript, Python, and C++.
Coding is a creative, educational activity your kids will love and Artie Max is an easy way to get them started. Learn more about Artie Max here and find other ways to get your kids coding here!
*https://www.idtech.com/blog/5-reasons-your-child-should-learn-to-code
**https://www.codemonkey.com/blog/10-benefits-for-kids-and-teens-to-learn-coding/
***CodeWizardsHQ, 2020 Survey
Holiday Gifts for 7- and 8-Year-Olds That Build Self-Confidence
Your elementary-aged kiddo is growing by leaps and bounds! These years are some of the most exciting in your child’s development, as they’re making noticeable advances in language development, social emotional development, and the mastery of academic concepts.
One of the biggest factors impacting your child’s happiness, health, and success is self-confidence. Confident kids are better equipped to deal with frustration, failure, and peer pressure, and to overcome challenges that come their way. You can help boost your kiddo’s self-confidence by choosing holiday gifts that nurture your child’s sense of self-worth. As the holidays approach, the Experts in Play are sharing some of their favorite, confidence-building holiday toys for 7- and 8-year-olds, including:
Artie Max – Build your child’s confidence, encourage creativity, and introduce the wonderful world of coding with this year’s must-have holiday gift! Artie Max, teaches kids to code amazing works of art in five different coding languages, beginning simply and building on what kids learn to tackle more advanced languages. Perfect for who love robots, computers, video games, art, and creating, Artie Max features crystal-clear, step-by-step instructions to engage kids in the wonderful world of coding while building STEM confidence.
Dice of Fury – Build math skills—and math confidence—with this furiously fast, whole-family dice game! Flip a challenge card and all players start rolling (and re-rolling), placing their die in their die holder one by one until they match the card. Players add, subtract, think even and odd, and complete mental math challenges as they play, building math confidence and creating a solid math skills foundation.
Circuit Explorer Deluxe Base Space Station – Help build your space-loving child’s focus and attention with a circuit building construction set they can assemble themselves! Kids follow a series of symbols to assemble the pieces and connect various circuits, activating lights, movement, and sound. When complete, the pieces are perfect for space-themed, imagination-building pretend play.
Kanoodle – Encourage problem solving and critical thinking skills, increase your child’s attention span, and provide opportunities for success with this best-selling, brain-twisting puzzle game. Place the pieces shown in the challenge book, then use your noggin to fit the rest. There are hundreds of possible combinations, but only one completes the puzzle correctly. With 200 challenges to complete, Kanoodle will keep your 7- or 8-year-old engaged all season long.
BrainBolt® Game – It takes focus and attentiveness to remember the order of the flashing light sequence and follow along without breaking the pattern in this mind-melding light-up memory game perfect for holidays at home or holiday travel! With both solo and two-player modes, kids can challenge friends and family to see who can remember the longest sequence.
Nancy B's Science Club Microscope and Activity Journal – Take hands-on exploration to the next level this holiday season! This kid-friendly microscope and activity journal set provides experience with a real, scientific tool and builds scientific confidence that transfers to the classroom. With a 400x zoom microscope, 26-piece scientific tool set, and 22-page activity journal, kids will be building STEM skills that last for years to come.
Nancy B’s Science Club® MoonScope™ & Sky Gazer's Activity Journal – Broaden your budding astronomer’s scope and build their scientific confidence with this 90x magnification stargazing MoonScope and 22 page activity journal packed with engaging activities. Specifically designed to get kids outside to explore the world and stay curious, this MoonScope will make an out-of-this world holiday gift for the special space-lover in your life.
Confidence is one of the biggest gifts a care giver can give a child. This holiday season, choose gifts that do double duty, delighting your big kids AND building the self-esteem and confidence they need to grow and thrive.
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