Learning how to code can be a great skill for children to acquire. With so many different programming languages available, it can be difficult to decide on the best one to teach to your students. Here is a summary of five of the best introductory programming languages for kids who are interested in coding:
Python
If you want your children or students to learn the basics of programming, Python is a great choice. Its syntax is written like natural language, so code is often easy to read and understand without the need for comments. This means that, when written well, the code can almost speak for itself and act as its own documentation.
Learning to program with Python is an easy task and few obstacles are present. Students can easily understand how to create programming concepts in their minds and then move them into commands that a computer can comprehend.
Python has a “batteries included” ideology, meaning that a lot of things can be done with just the core Python libraries, with no need to search for external assistance. Many of the common functionalities that programmers need are already built into the programming language, which makes this a great language for kids to learn.
Ruby
Ruby offers the most legible syntax for novice coders. This eliminates the need for lengthy explanations of the code students are entering into machines, as a lot of it is self-explanatory. This is a critical factor for kids who are still mastering the basics of programming.
At the end of the day, teaching children programming will equip them with the skills to write great scripts. Ruby, a very powerful language, was used to build Twitter, providing students with an immediate example of how coding is used in popular applications.
Java
If you’re a first-time programmer looking to create your own apps or websites, Java may be the language for you. While it is arguably more difficult to learn than either Ruby or Python, having a working knowledge of Java can make learning future programming languages a bit easier.
With two decades of development behind it, Java boasts tons of online resources, toolkits, and tutorials, so you can get started from square one. Getting started with Java can be a bit of a challenge, as you need to install the JDK and familiarize yourself with the syntax.
However, the object-oriented nature of the language makes it a great option for students as they progress. Java has a similar look and feel to C and C++, but its many functionalities allow students to create more powerful programs.
C++
When it comes to whether a student should start learning to code with C++ or not, opinions among computer science experts and developers vary.
Though C++ can appear intimidatingly mathematical at first glance, grasping the fundamentals of programming can open up many possibilities in the world of coding. In fact, many of the world’s most successful programmers began their careers by learning the C or C++ programming languages.
Scratch
If you have a classroom full of kids who are eager to make animations, interactive stories, art, or music, then Scratch is the perfect coding language for them.
It’s free and easy to learn online, even for those with no prior coding experience. Even experienced programmers can find a lot to love about Scratch, due to its many features and capabilities. Plus, Scratch has an incredibly interactive online community, where people can share their work and play each other’s games, keeping your students engaged and involved.
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