{"id":10578,"date":"2022-10-12T18:25:52","date_gmt":"2022-10-12T18:25:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.computerscience.org\/?p=10578"},"modified":"2024-08-09T18:25:36","modified_gmt":"2024-08-09T18:25:36","slug":"resources-best-programming-languages-for-kids","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.computerscience.org\/resources\/best-programming-languages-for-kids\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Programming Languages for Kids"},"content":{"rendered":"

Learning basic coding languages for kids can improve math, creativity, and problem-solving skills. It can also help children begin to develop an in-demand technical skill set for future education or job endeavors.<\/p>\r\n

The Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/a> (BLS) projects much-faster-than-average growth for computer and information technology occupations between 2021 and 2031. Basic coding skills and an understanding of how programming languages work can prepare kids to consider a future STEM career.<\/p>\r\n

This guide explains why you should consider helping your child learn to code and highlights some of the best kids programming languages. Use our list to decide which programming language is the best place for your child to start.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n

The Connection Between Coding and Programming<\/h2>\r\n

People sometimes use the terms \"coding\" and \"programming\" interchangeably. In fact, the two are related but different<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n

Coding is a subset of programming. Coding uses programming languages to translate directions into something a computer can understand. Programming creates the instructions that tell a computer how to follow the directions.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Coding Versus Programming<\/caption>\r\n
<\/th>\r\nCoding<\/th>\r\nProgramming<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n
Knowledge Required<\/th>\r\nBasic knowledge of programming languages<\/td>\r\nAdvanced knowledge of programming languages, website design, algorithms<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
Sample Tools Used<\/th>\r\nText editor<\/td>\r\nText editor, code editor, assembler, debugger, Integrated Development Environment (IDE), etc.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
Programming Languages Used<\/th>\r\nJavaScript, Python, PHP, etc.<\/td>\r\nJavaScript, Python, PHP, etc.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
Goal\/End Product<\/th>\r\nCompletes a specific goal or task. For example, changing font colors or animating a picture.<\/td>\r\nCreation of a piece of software or an application.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n\n
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\n Learn more about coding for kids of all ages<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/sonic-icon>\n <\/span>\n <\/span>\n <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\n
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\n Get more details on how coding is used<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/sonic-icon>\n <\/span>\n <\/span>\n <\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\r\n\r\n<\/sonic-editorial-listings>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n

Top Programming Languages for Kids<\/h2>\r\n

We researched the top kids programming languages to find some of the best options for beginners. These coding languages made the list because they are easy to learn, readily available, and include kid-friendly features<\/a>. We also prioritized free, open-source options.<\/p>\r\n

To find the right coding language<\/a> for your family, think about your child's age, interests, and abilities. Some of the coding languages described below are appropriate for children as young as five, while others may be better suited for slightly older kids. All of the programming languages included are beginner-friendly.<\/p>\r\n

This is not a ranking, but an alphabetical list of some of the top kids coding languages to consider for your child.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Java <\/sonic-icon><\/a><\/h3>\r\n

Java is a fast, powerful programming language used for software engineering, app development, and Android devices.<\/p>\r\n

Kids might be interested to learn that Java built the applications for Minecraft, Twitter, and Spotify. They can use Java to make their own mobile apps for an Android environment.<\/p>\r\n

Choosing Java for your child's first programming language is a good way to set them up for success later on. Although a bit more difficult to learn than some of the other kids programming languages, knowing Java makes it easier to learn other programming languages.<\/p>\r\n

Many websites provide educational training and resources for children wanting to learn Java. There is also a large online community of Java experts and users who can answer questions. You can download and run Java for free on a computer, smartphone, or tablet.<\/p>\r\n

Although some kids as young as about seven can pick up Java, it is an advanced language that may be more appropriate for slightly older children with good reading comprehension.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

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