Are you having trouble motivating your child to become interested in computer science? From coding to gaming, robotics and even more, computer science is a key component of today’s world and is an asset that can help open doors to many job opportunities in the future. It can also help children learn vital problem-solving skills and think rapidly and independently. But getting your child interested in computer science can be difficult if they are not already interested. Here are some tips for helping your child get interested in coding and the other various components of computer science.
Make it Fun
One of the best ways to get your child interested in computer science is to make it fun. As prominent Stanford professor Sharona Levy once said, “Coding was invented to bring ideas to life. It’s about fun, creativity, and problem solving.” You can turn learning computer science into a fun and playful activity for your child by incorporating various gaming activities. If your child is a fan of Minecraft, use the game as an introduction to Java and coding. Start by coding basic functions in the game and then move the more complex programs and tutorials. If you have the resources, you can also purchase video games or robotics-based toys that involve coding. This can help your child learn the basics of coding through the use of play.
Start Young
It can also help to start introducing your child to computer science from a very young age. Even preschoolers can use technology to their advantage by beginning to learn basic mathematics, spelling, reading, and more. As your child’s cognitive abilities start to grow, you can begin to introduce basic coding and computer science elements like problem solving and logic. This can give your child a head start in understanding the basics of programming and coding. Start by downloading basic educational programming tutorials and games that your child can play with.
Connect With Other Kids Interested in Computer Science
Connecting with other children that share your child’s passion for computer science is also an excellent way to motivate their desire to learn more. There are plenty of online programs, classes, and even local coding meetups that your child can take part in to meet other children that share their passions. Connecting with other children that also have an interest in learning computer science can help your child learn more about the field, gain insight from their peers, and stay motivated.
Highlight the Impact of Computer Science
Being able to see how computer science has shaped the modern world is a wonderful way to help your child learn more about the field. From the rise of streaming services like Netflix to virtual reality, coding and computer science are all around us each day, and being able to point it out can help give your child a new perspective on the field. You can also provide examples of how computer science can provide tangible benefits like voice recognition, 3D printing, and more that can help your child to further understand the capabilities of computer science.
Create Rewards
Creating rewards to give your child when they have completed a programming exercise or have demonstrated understanding of some of the principles of computer science is an excellent way to keep your child’s enthusiasm and motivation high. Even simple rewards and praise can help act as a motivational tool for you child and make them feel valuable.
Conclusion
Getting your child interested in computer science may no be easy, but with the right tactics and practices, you can help your child get excited and engaged in coding, robotics, and the other elements that make up computer science. From making it fun to connecting with other children with the similar interest, these tips will help your child start to become a master of computer science.
Sources:
Levy, Sharona. “Six Tips for Introducing Kids to Coding.” Stanford Magazine, 17 May 2018, stanford.io/2LTxQ8F.