To get children to get into programming, they must learn at an early age. Now, it is not possible to teach children the advanced levels, nor it is possible to teach them in a manner we would with an adult. Special tools are required for the job, and as expected, we know of a few Programming Languages for children.
Before we begin, the languages we will talk about here are all easy to learn, at least, this is the case from our point of view. Now, once your children get an idea of how these programming languages work, they will be ahead of their peers once they’re officially being taught in school.
The best Programming Languages for for kids
The following list contains the best programming language for children who want to code:
- Scratch
- Python
- Java
- C++
- Ruby
- Swift
- Alice
1] Scratch
The first language we want to look at here is Scratch. For those who are wondering, Scratch is a drag-and-drop programming language that makes it possible for users to create games and animations. This is perfect for beginner coders as it helps with the understanding of the logic of programming without previous knowledge.
Whatever the user learns with Scratch can then be applied to programming languages that are real and widely used.
One should note that Scratch relies on a visual interface due to it being a block-based programming language.
2] Python
For those who aren’t aware, Python is one of the easiest programming languages available today. This is a language that is quite popular, and rightfully so. Getting started only requires a few lines of code, and that is one of the many reasons why it is so easy to learn, teach, and understand.
Python language is used primarily in advanced fields such as data science, cyber security, artificial intelligence, and more. From our point of view, Python is used in so many areas due to its simple programming syntax, reliability, and commands that are English-like.
TIP: Teach Kids to Code using these Tools and Programs from Microsoft
3] Java
Another language we cannot put on the back burner is Java. Folks tend to wonder if this programming language is a good option for children who wants to learn. The answer to such a question is a simple yes.
Java is easy to learn, and it doesn’t matter if your child is new at coding. The child only needs to have an interest in learning a new language, and once that is the case, the sky is the limit.
Note that Java was used to create the most popular video game in the world, Minecraft. Not only that but Java is used to create many of the mobile video games available in the Google Play Store and AppStore.
Still, one must consider that Java will take a longer time to master, so bear that in mind always before introducing the language to a child.
4] C++
When it comes down to general-purpose programming languages, we must say that C++ is one of the best of the pack. From what we’ve gathered, this language is loved by millions of software programmers around the world.
Since C++ looks more like mathematics, it is likely only those children who enjoy working with numbers will be drawn to it. Nevertheless, anyone can find it useful once the fundamentals are understood and become less complicated.
Once the child fully understands C++ later in life, it can open many doors in the areas of creating system software, games, apps, and much more.
5] Ruby
Have you ever heard of a programming language called Ruby? It has been around since 1995, which is 27 years ago. Ruby is an open-source language, and it focuses on productivity and simplicity for the most part. It is one of the easiest languages to learn, especially for those who do not like a lot of complexity.
We understand that Ruby is mostly used for the creation of web applications, so if you want your child to learn how to create impressive apps for the web, then Ruby is a great place to start.
6] Swift
Introducing students to coding can be a challenging affair, and that’s where Swift comes in. It’s a language used to write software for smartphones, servers, desktop operating systems, and basically anything capable of running code.
Swift brings to the table interactive programming along with safety and speed. Now, this language is great for newcomers because it works with simple drag-and-drop functionality, so it should be easier to understand than most, especially for children who learn based on visuals.
The problem with Swift is that the language is young, therefore, it has a limited talent pool and compatibility with third-party programs.
7] Alice
Don’t worry because this has nothing to do with Alice in Wonderland where things are both scary and deadly. You see, Alice is a block-based programming language that is mostly used to build interactive narratives, create animations, or for the creation of simple 3D games.
The purpose of Alice is to teach computational and logical thinking skills, and this is something your child could benefit from a great deal.
Still, we must point out that Alice is not the easiest of languages to learn, and it is quite laggy. However, if enough time is put into learning how to make use of this environment, one could become an expert at using other types of languages much faster.
Here are some other websites that can help you learn coding online free. And here is a list of websites that will help you learn to Code playing Games & having Fun.
Is Python or Java better for kids?
Both of these programming languages are great, but from our point of view, none is truly better than the other. You see, Python is easier to understand and is great for big data, but Java, on the other hand, is perfect for mobile app development and has better run-time performance overall.
Should kids learn Java or Python first?
OK, so since Python is easier to learn, it is best to have children learn and focus on it in the early days. After they’ve become accustomed to the language, they can move over to Java. However, if your child wants to pursue a career in computer science/engineering. then we suggest allowing him or her to learn Java first because it is best for understanding the inner workings of programming.
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