The Junior Developer

 #codetocreate #WhitehatJr #codingforkids #learning

All this began when my 6yr old son asked me -- from where did so many games come inside his #FireTablet.

Only answer to avoid him was -- someone like you developed it using their app coding skills and installed in marketplace 

I assumed, filling in some technical jargons will annoy him and no more questions for me :D

Well -- Then i had the next request (more authoritatively)... I ALSO WANT TO LEARN CODING..

This was a task for me.. I surveyed some online portals.. got into code.org and explained him how to code :)

Hoping.. this will annoy/bore him thoroughly and he forgets the coding fever and no more questions..

Well now, I compromised on my laptop and he occupied it - trying out some block codes on his own (obviously something baseless and illogical but he was keeping himself engaged with it).. 

This was the #breakpoint.. 

Surfed through some online coding classes and concluded on #WhiteHatJr

Did their initial evaluation and realized few things need to be delineated by the experts only. The evaluator was much experienced with handling kids and training them patiently based on their needs and potential.

No pressure and no push for completion, they play and learn. 

Only 4 hrs. per month and some self practice.

Now he no more asks for game downloads, he thinks of gaming logics and try building on his own.. at a very novice level though.. but i am glad he understands what requirements are and how to plan.. lonnnng way to go..

There are discussions on online coding classes pros/cons advised by educators/child psychologists/media/parents.

On an average every kid will be exposed to screen time for a minimum 10hrs/day. (online school/mobile/tablet/TV/video games) 

Lets not deny the fact - this is not the temporary effect of pandemic. 

Kids are introduced to block coding which is the introductory and interfaced manner for teaching coding.

Professional developers use complex scripting languages.

Coding ability gives new perspective to problem-solving.

Code offers career flexibility.

Coding can be useful in jobs you might not expect.

We don't expect him to be a top developer in Sony/Nintendo/EA/Sega/Microsoft/Google.

He may end up being a dance choreographer/musician/painter or any field that may not require any screen or coding. 

We are absolutely fine with that.

Any learning should not be intended with an economic returns behind it. 

Learning is helpful, either to you directly or indirectly.

Be observant to your Childs interest area, seek their permission or consult on your thoughts and let them know the opportunities.

Children have the potential to decide their better fate and all they seek is your support and guidance.

I enrolled thinking of giving it a try.. if he loses interest in beginning few classes we always had the benefit of getting full refund on pending course.

Don't push your child if they show disinterest and keep giving them enough chance to explore their areas.

Some sample novice attempts by my son Vyedant.. he is still learning and always excited for his next class:

https://studio.code.org/projects/spritelab/YWHJx01hiaF-4F37xzunUMCl7GEQ_KJxYRcasx9csUM

https://studio.code.org/projects/spritelab/2-y7gp_4wwsdVZM06mJk3uE14_LRYjPftmdNzhaZeoU

https://studio.code.org/projects/spritelab/Nn4Ga0tTDPx5dxh942o52hSQeLA-6T_D96irBZBNCn8