There is a gradual increase in recognition of the benefits of learning to code at an early age. This recognition has fueled much interest in coding among children. According to a study by the National Science Foundation, coding can help children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These skills can have significant academic and professional benefits for children. Nevertheless, parental support is necessary for children to thrive in coding.Â
Here are some ways in which parents can support their child’s coding education:
1- Creating a Conducive Learning Environment
A conducive learning environment is crucial to a child’s success in coding. Kids need a distraction-free space for coding. It allows children to concentrate on their coding lessons. Parents must ensure their children have a comfortable, well-equipped study area, which includes a computer or tablet, a stable internet connection, and a comfortable chair. Additionally, parents should establish a consistent routine for coding lessons, as this will help children remain focused and avoid distractions.
2- Encouraging a Growth Mindset
While learning to code, children are bound to face obstacles and setbacks. Research conducted by the Harvard Graduate School of Education has shown that a growth mindset is essential to a child’s success in coding. Encouraging a growth mindset in children can help them develop resilience and view failures as opportunities for growth. Praising their effort rather than their innate ability can help develop this mindset. Adopting a growth mindset helps children approach coding lessons with a positive attitude and heightened motivation.
3- Reinforcing Learning Outside of Lessons
Reinforcing learning outside the lessons’ curriculum is critical in helping children retain what they learn in coding classes. Encouraging children to practice and apply coding concepts to real-world issues can be beneficial. Parents can encourage children to use coding to solve problems at home, such as automating tasks or creating simple games. This reinforcement of coding learning outside the lessons’ curriculum can help children deeply understand coding concepts and boost their confidence in their coding abilities.
4- Supporting Curiosity and Creativity
Coding could be such a creative pursuit. Therefore, parents must encourage their children to explore their interests and ask questions. Parents can support their child’s creativity by helping them develop unique approaches to problem-solving through experimentation and trying new things. Additionally, parents can incorporate fun and engaging coding activities at home, such as coding games, puzzles, and challenges. Activities like this can stimulate children’s curiosity and creativity, helping them develop a love for coding and a desire to learn.
5- Staying Involved and Informed
For parents to provide support for their child’s coding education, they must remain involved and informed. Parents can keep track of their child’s coding progress and regularly communicate with their child’s coding instructor or tutor. By doing so, parents can identify areas where their child needs extra support or where they are struggling. Parents can also remain up-to-date with the latest coding trends and developments by reading coding blogs, interacting with other parents, attending coding events, and participating in coding communities.
In summary, parental support is crucial to a child’s success in coding. By creating a conducive learning environment, encouraging a growth mindset, reinforcing learning outside of lessons, supporting curiosity and creativity, and staying involved and informed, parents can help their children develop essential skills and thrive in coding.
At Lassod, we believe that coding is an essential skill for children to develop, and we offer a comprehensive online program that provides the support and guidance children need to thrive in coding. By subscribing to Lassod Kids Coding, parents can ensure that their children receive the best possible coding education and are well-prepared for their academic and professional lives