In an increasingly technological world, knowledge of coding is useful to have, both for entering certain professions and enhancing specific skills. The benefits of learning to code can be wide-ranging, and include understanding the digital world better and applying that knowledge to various aspects of life. Your child will probably learn about coding in school, but you can support them to expand their knowledge through extra-curricular and home-based activities. Read on to learn more about the benefits of coding for young people from a prep school in Amersham.
Problem-solving skills
Coding can be quite challenging and it will require your child to find solutions to problems and overcome obstacles. They’ll have to think outside the box and try again when a line of code doesn’t work, developing their problem-solving skills in the process. Your child will also learn to be more resilient and approach challenges with a solution-focused mindset, working hard to reach their goal despite (or even because of) hurdles that need to be overcome. These enhanced problem-solving skills can be applied to other areas of their life and having these in their arsenal will boost their confidence and self-esteem.
Creativity
Coding involves starting with a blank screen and ending with an instruction being completed accurately – so it’s as creative a process as painting a picture or writing a story. Your child will be able to use their imagination to think about the end goal and how they’re going to get there. They’ll be able to ask questions and think through the answers, and experiment with different ways of achieving their aim. Being a creative thinker will benefit them throughout their life.
Collaboration and communication
When learning coding at school or at extra-curricular clubs, your child will probably work as part of a team on a particular project to reach a common goal; for example, they might be tasked with getting a robot to move using code and have to work with their teammates to achieve this. Through the process they’ll work collaboratively with others, communicate their ideas and opinions, and listen to the thoughts and views of others with tolerance and respect. These are key life skills which will stand your child in good stead whatever they do in life.
As you can see there are many benefits to young people learning to code, not to mention the fact it might lead to an exciting and rewarding career in the future.