Why Teach This Early?
Programming is the literacy of the 21st century. Many successful developers started coding before age 12. In Estonia, coding is taught from age 7. Children who code develop logical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to create rather than just consume technology.
Progressive Sub-Goals
Introduction
Builds complete applications
💡 Tip: Build something they want - a game, a tool, a website.
Developing
Understands data structures and algorithms
💡 Tip: Use visual tools like Python Tutor to see code execution.
Mastery
Contributes to open-source projects
💡 Tip: Start with documentation or small bug fixes - low barrier to entry.
Teaching Tips
- 1Let them struggle - debugging is where learning happens
- 2Join a coding club or hackathon for community
- 3Build projects that solve real problems in their life
- 4Celebrate working code, even if it's not elegant
Learning Resources
Related Skills to Explore
#11 Object Permanence
Cognitive & Strategic • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Tracks objects with eyes as they move
#12 Sensory Exploration
Cognitive & Strategic • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Explores objects with hands and mouth
#13 Cause & Effect Understanding
Cognitive & Strategic • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Accidentally discovers actions have effects
#236 Starting a Business
Academic & Career • Ages 9-12
Launches a real business with a business plan
#237 Index Fund Investing
Academic & Career • Ages 9-12
Opens a custodial investment account and understands what an index fund is
#238 Negotiation
Academic & Career • Ages 9-12
Negotiates a price at a garage sale