What is Coding?
Coding is the act of writing instructions for a computer to make the computer perform a task. Coding may also be called programming. A finished set of computer instructions is called a program.
Every app, game and software program we use requires a coded program to work. Many of our household appliances and even our cars also require a coded program to work.
For a program to work it must be written in a way that a computer understands. This is done with a computer language. There are different computer languages designed for different types of computer programs.
These computer languages include HTML, Javascript, C,Python etc. Essentially the computer language converts human generated instructions into binary code – that is, strings of ones and zeroes that tell a computer what to do.
When learning to code, children typically learn to use simplified, visual programming tools that allow them to build programs with pre-made blocks of codes that can be stacked together to form a sequence of instructions.
Children will then typically move on to learning to program with text-based programming languages that use words, abbreviations, numbers and symbols to create the instructions.
Very young children can begin to learn the principles of coding without even touching a computer. These types of coding game provide opportunity for children to learn the basic principles behind coding and to develop the logical thinking sequences that are helpful once they begin to learn to code on a computer.
Computational thinking involves a logical thought process to solve a problem, including the ability to spot and troubleshoot mistakes when a program does not work as you intended it to. Computer’s only work as well as the instructions they have been given! If a program’s instructions are not written correctly then the program won’t work properly.
7 Free Coding Games Websites for Teaching Programming Skills
Well known for its elaborate and intricate math program, Khan Academy also offers a different vertical that teaches kids how to code for free. It is more suitable for kids in the elementary levels as the lessons could be detailed and a little technical for preschoolers. The website utilizes talk-throughs that allow the kids to follow and create their own programs in the site’s editor panel.
This is a great site for kids of all ages who love playing online games and want to learn how to code in the process. The games are interactive and to control actions of players, the kids have to write lines of code. The difficulty rises as they advance in stages.
For kids aged 8-16 years, this is a great website where they can learn how to build practically anything they can dream of. The website was created as an online community to help young kids become programmers through easy activity packs and a great support system.
Introduce your kids to Javascript programming taught through a fun and interactive session by their favorite monster. There are two boxes. The kid code in one box and the result is displayed in the other box.
As the name suggests, this website teaches programming in a series of puzzles and blocks. Kids need to solve a puzzle through drag and drop to create a story that solves a specific problem. They are then allowed to see the results of their work in action.
This website allows kids to learn programming at their own pace. There is so much to do here and with easy lessons and tutorials, kids can be able to make practically anything they wish including applications, web apps, games or website pages. The website is free to use but there is a subscription if your kid wants to take their expertise to the next level.
Kids will love and appreciate the familiar emojis they come across while learning how to code in this website. Kids can be able to learn at their own pace with easy to follow and interactive lessons.
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