In today’s world of gaming, websites, and online shopping, there are few of us that can escape technology. Today, I want to discuss online coding for kids and share the benefits.

As parents, our struggle to help our kids get outside, find interests away from technology and teach them to be responsible in a world that isn’t, is constant.

But we cannot deny the fact that technology is not just for video game programmers, it reaches into nearly every occupation and our kids should be prepared to interact with this constantly advancing way of life.

How Can I Teach My Child to Code at Home?

So, how can I teach my child to code at home? There are several ways.

• Board and card games
• Online coding programs such as Simply Coding (check out my review)
• Books

In today’s day of educational games and STEM programs, you can be sure you will find board and card games to teach your kids coding.

Code Monkey Island, Hacker (which I am AWFUL at!) and Code Master are just a few examples of coding games.

Coding books have been written for all ages. Many don’t even require a computer!

What is Online Coding for Kids?

Now, the real reason we are here! Online coding for kids! This can be the easiest way to have your children learn to code because they consist of videos and someone walking students through all of the complicated steps. Plus, my kids are on the computer and therefore consider it “screen time”.

We have tried these websites and found them to be very helpful.

• Code.org is a great place to start! They have games for prereaders and every level after that. It is free with a lot of variety. No boredom in this online coding for kids 🙂
• Hour of Code with Khan Academy is a great option for families and classroom teachers. I found it to be a little more advanced than the beginning classes at code.org. It is well organized and easy to follow.
• Simply Coding requires a yearly subscription. These courses are amazing and they have a live teacher on hand during the day to help with any questions or if your child gets “stuck” (which did happen to us!).

Is Coding Good for Kids?

I had to ask myself if I was overdoing it with the number of activities I have on our educational calendar. I can argue that each one benefits them in one way or another.

Is coding good for kids? Will it benefit them or feed their addiction to online games?

I have come to the conclusion that it is good for them. It teaches logical thinking, how to plan and organize their thoughts, and how to take a big problem and break it down into smaller pieces.

Like everything else in parenting, we need to find a balance that works for our families. I hope this post will aid you in your search to find what works best for you!

How Will Online Coding Benefit Your Kids?

The above mentioned benefits of online coding are just the beginning. They will aid your child in their other schoolwork, activities, and careers (even if they never go into a field heavy in computers).

What are your thoughts on coding for kids? Do you have a program that your family enjoys? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!

You might also enjoy these science homeschool posts!

Learn the Human Body with Apologia Anatomy

Outdoor Educational Activities to Pull You Through Spring Fever