The world of computer programming is vast and remote. In the way millions of people can drive a car but can’t explain how a combustion engine works, people worldwide use smartphones and computers every day without knowing how the underlying code works.
Parents looking to ensure their children are equipped for digital life may feel overwhelmed if they themselves don’t know computer skills. They know their kids need the tech skills to be ready for digital life, but where should they begin?
At RP4K, we start with the coding language Python for a few reasons. Please continue reading to learn what they are.
RP4K believes that a coding class for kids should begin with an actual coding language, not a drag-and-drop program designed to simulate what coding is actually like. Some schools first expose kids to Scratch, which may convey a sense of coding, but is never used in the field by coding professionals.
Python is a perfectly suitable coding language for young kids to learn, even as young as six. Starting them out on a real coding language habituates them to concepts like processing and programming.
Young kids need to be engaged when they learn; it makes the lessons fun, which is its own goal, and it makes learning more effective. RP4K emphasizes fun above all! We want kids to enjoy using computers and to see that their first experience is a good one.
You can only make a first impression once, and we know the importance of ensuring kids have a great time learning how to code computers. That’s why we make the classes revolve around how to create a video game they can play with friends and family.
Such a tangible goal makes them naturally driven to complete the task. Kids who have used a computer before but are totally new to computer programming are in the perfect place to start building a game in Python.
In our beginner level Python courses, we teach them to build a game called Serpent Temple, where a treasure hunter needs to dodge snakes, traps, and boulders while riding an alligator to find the ultimate booty.
The sessions let children learn casually and at their own pace while exploring the Python coding language. Plus, we use gamification concepts in our lessons, so the same dynamics and design that push kids to keep playing video games help them learn.
It’s hard to describe what a sense of accomplishment they’ll feel after building a video game they can show off.
Python is known for being a high-level programming language, meaning it’s not a machine-learning language, which makes things simpler. It’s also a general-purpose language, which makes it versatile.
It’s remained popular since launching in 1991 because it’s open source and free to use, even for commercial applications. Beginners tend to enjoy its clear and readable syntax and make quick and steady progress.
The indentation makes it easier to read and spot bugs in the code, and the clarity of the program makes it easy to begin writing basic programs quickly. If coding in Python could be compared to learning a musical instrument, students learn to play basic songs quickly rather than get bogged down by technical aspects of the instrument or music theory.
Python might be perfect for young children to learn, but they’re not the only people who use it. Indeed, millions of people use the apps, websites, and video games Python powers every day.
For example, Python plays a big role at Netflix, from things like their alerting and statistical analytical work to providing operating insights and more.
It may be surprising to hear that the best coding language young children should start learning is also an industry-standard language employers expect their teams to know, but it’s true. Your child can learn Python online today and get a good jump on their future.
Most young coders aren’t sure of what they want to build or program. Python is a general-purpose coding language, meaning it’s used for a variety of purposes, from data science, machine learning, web development, and game development.
RP4K tends to focus on the gaming aspect because video games comprise the heart of our lessons, but Python is good for much more than that. After some experience with the coding language, students can see where Python takes them and what they like most about it.
Naturally, RP4K students have tons of resources and support when they’re in a lesson. All our sessions are capped at a maximum of four students per teacher, so classes are orderly and free of disruptions and disturbances.
However, Python is great because, in between sessions, students have many free resources at their disposal, such as tutorials, forums, courses, and other forms of help. We hire undergrads in computer science and computer engineering to give your children all the support they could want, but we’re not there between classes.
RP4K will give your child all possible guidance and instruction during a session. Our teachers grew up playing video games and their subject matter expertise will make young coding experts of your kids. It may not happen immediately, and if your kids need support while they’re at home practicing or reviewing their work, it’s right there for them.
RP4K is determined to give your child a fun experience that prepares them for our tech world. Whether they want to become professional video game coders, enter other professions that rely on computer skills, or use coding to blaze their own trail, they can learn throughout the school year and develop the fundamental coding skills necessary.
Between our beginner and developing Python course, we know it’s a perfect way for kids to gain valuable programming experience and dip their toes into coding’s waters and see how they like it. If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to call us and inquire about our free trial lesson.
