Debunking Common Myths About Programming For Kids

While technology and programming are present in literally every field and offer exciting activities for all interests, there are many misconceptions that keep children from learning to code, depriving them of learning opportunities and the ability to acquire important transferable skills and get in the way of college and the workplace. Today we want to debunk four common myths about programming for children.

#1 Programming is very difficult and lonely Suitable for Older Children
When learning a second language, it is generally accepted that the younger you start, the more likely you are to become competent. Learning a programming language is no different. While it is true that some text-based languages are more difficult and suitable for older and more experienced programmers, Visual Programming Languages (VPLs) are designed to help preschoolers learn to code as well. Q in 1 provides a web-based platform to learn coding for children as young as the age of 5. Programs are written in VPL by drawing and opposing various blocks.The code-behind contained in the blocks is written as they are connected and no writing skills are required. Two popular VPLs for kids are Kodu and Scratch, which we will come back to later. The basis of coding is computational thinking. We use these concepts every day, from the youngest kids to the most tech-friendly grandparents. Go to school every day? A loop. Take the bus into town when it’s raining, but walk when it’s sunny? A conditional. Do you follow a recipe to bake a cake? As we shall see, these computational thinking concepts are at the heart of all programming languages.

#2 Coding Is Boring You Have to Start Learning the Right Language
There Is No “ Right ” Programming Language Children Can Learn
Although each language is designed to do specific tasks and a program written in two different languages may appear unrecognizable, on a basic level All languages are based on the same basic concepts, so an understanding of computational thinking at the beginning of their coding journey can be very helpful for new programmers as it allows them to visualize the same logic in all languages when they understand whatever an algorithm, a loop and a condition are, and can apply these concepts to VPL or simple text-based languages, you will soon be ready for something more complex! is that the programming language they start out with suits their interests, and that leads us to our next myth:
i) Programming is boring. Learning to program has evolved in unimaginable ways since the days of sitting in front of a monochrome screen with a blank command line.For children who get into programming, participation is key. Here are seven different programming languages, platforms, and activities for kids – there is sure to be something here that will interest even the half-hearted child!
● Kodu – A robotics-inspired block-based language used to create 3D video games for PC and Xbox.
● Scratch: a VPL where kids can develop a variety of projects, from games and animated stories to art and music. ScratchJr is a simpler version of the platform designed for even younger children.
● Roblox – One of the most popular social gaming platforms in the world, where kids can play millions of other players’ games and program their own games in the Lua programming language.
● Java: Used for web and application development on an industrial scale, however, most children learn Java to make mods (code modifications) in Minecraft that re-design the structure of their favorite game and learn at the same time.
● JavaScript – When JavaScript is learned in conjunction with HTML and CSS, JavaScript is used to develop interactive websites, web and mobile applications, and games.
● Python – One of the easiest text-based languages for kids to learn, used for developing websites, applications, and games.
● Micro: bit – A pocket computer that introduces children to software and hardware and is perfect for those who prefer hands-on learning and experimentation.

#3 Coding is only useful for kids who like STEM subjects.
It’s a common misconception that coding is only good for kids who like science and math, and the false stereotype of a programmer being lonely about a computer Keller is bent on, still holds. it alienates many boys from programming, especially girls.

As we’ve shown, programming is a great creative outlet for all interests – if your child loves creative writing, why not code their animated story? If your daughter loves music why not start her own website? Q in 1 education will definitely expand your child’s horizons in every way. In addition, learning to program teaches them key skills needed throughout the curriculum, such as planning ideas, solving problems, and dealing with disruptions. A Florida study found that 8 to 11-year-olds who were in computer science scored better marks in reading and writing apart from maths and science.

#4 Programming is only necessary for children who want to become programmers
In today’s world, digital competence is just as important as traditional literacy: Children learn English and math until they graduate, prepare for future opportunities and digital competence, and dealing with it responsibly is without it Doubt is a crucial skill that helps our children in school and at work. Programming is another aspect of digital literacy and not just a skill that future programmers will need. Advances that have expanded to literally all fields and professions, from healthcare to education to fashion. and tourism. Some programming skills give kids a foot in the door to a variety of areas, depending on their interests. With Q in 1, coding will set a path into some of the most exciting, high-paying industries in the world for your child.