60 Minutes of Coding, Endless Possibilities!
Code, as defined by Code.org, is: The language that programmers create and use to tell a computer what to do.
Has your child tried coding? Coding is a skill that most kids and parents have heard of, and some may have even tried. But many people still associate coding with super-smart, tech experts and are intimidated by the concept.
The Hour of Code is the perfect time to demystify coding and introduce kids of all ages to the wonderful language of coding. And, the best part is, it’s completely free on HourofCode.com. Introducing your child to 60 minutes of coding really could open countless possibilities for his or her future!
What is Hour of Code?
Hour of Code is an international celebration of coding that takes place every year in December, during Computer Science Education Week. During this week, Code.org challenges kids and parents alike to expose themselves to a 1-hour, interactive coding lesson and activity.
“An hour is the perfect start!” says Debra Smith, Sylvan Learning Franchisee in Nebraska and STEM enthusiast. “It gives kids a good opportunity to work through frustrations or fears and be successful. At the end of the hour, they’re ready for more.”
Many Hour of Code activities are self-guided, which means you can do this at home with your child. (And, you don’t have to be in the computer science field!)
While many of the activities are gaming and video game related, there are also lots of graphic based, illustration based and music related activities for kids who may be more interested in music and art coding activities!
“Sometimes we think coding is all gaming,” says Debra, “but there are LOTS of other things.”
All you have to do to participate in Hour of Code is pick the FREE tutorial you want to introduce and pick an hour — Code.org takes care of the rest. There are options for every age and experience-level, from pre-K to high school. And, not all tutorials require a computer. There are adult-lead, non-computer activities for non-readers!