Computing is gaining significance in most fields as application of technology intensifies. Children are being introduced to digital technology from as early as kindergarten. The modern generation child is surrounded by digital devices such as smartphones, video games and robots. Kids and students need to be taught how to code to enable them to embrace digital technology to fit in the fast moving world. These are five benefits that kids will yield from learning how to code.

Nurtures computational thinking

Learning how to code empowers kid’s cognitive skills. The use of abstractions and pattern recognition in coding strengthen the kid’s ability to approach a problem from different dimensions. They learn that, logic is the key to solving many problems. Coding involves logical organization and analysis of data. This makes it possible to break the problem into distinct parts and create systematic steps to solving it. Students can apply these computational skills to solve practical problems.

Helps kids to explain the real world

Computing has become an integral part in everyday life. Social media platforms, banking, transport among other fields are using computation procedures. For kids to understand the world better, they need to be taught how to code. Familiarizing themselves with computation will equip them with information to understand the world they live in. Coding encourages swift thinking to fit in a world where technology is the basic scale of intelligence.

“Coding for kids can no longer be viewed as an obscure topic that can wait until college. Coding should instead be seen as a 21st century literacy as important as math and physical science.” according to David Dodge, CEO of Codakid

Enhances their problem solving skills

As mentioned earlier, coding involves breakdown of a complex problem into parts before solving it logically. Kids can transfer these computational concepts into other fields and advance better problem solving skills. For instance, when solving a problem scientists form hypothesis which they systematically test one by one. When they grow up, kids can use these skills in the field of medicine or engineering to solve problems in their respective fields. Coding prepares them in their earliest formative years to nurture better problems solving skills.

Strengthens algorithmic thinking

Algorithmic thinking refers to an individual’s ability to establish appropriate steps to solve a problem. This involves the concepts of computation such as repetition and sequencing. Most of the scientific problems that kids solve involve algorithm. They unwarily use algorithmic thinking to work out mathematical problems such as division. Kids nurture the ability to break down problems and logically handle them. Coding increases their interest to pursue science related fields as it increases their quest to find answers using systematic procedures.

Encourages creativity in kids

The modern child loves technology and its related magic. Coding opens an opportunity to put their imaginations into best use. They learn to improvise new ideas to solve problems especially when resources are limited. It gives them room to create what they love from the things that they have learnt. Some kids discover hidden talents that they have in them and explore such to the fullest. They are filled with a sense of pride and achievement when they successfully invent something of their own. Kids also can discover their lifelong passions after lengthy exposure to coding.