Learning to code can seem intimidating a first, especially for kids who are just getting started! Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there and a range of languages for every skill and experience level. Let make your kids’ coding easier with this list of 5 best Programming Languages for Kids & Teens.
As of 2021, Scratch, JavaScript, Java, Python, C++ are the most popular kids coding languages, and with good reason! Let’s take a closer look at each one.
What is a programming language?
If you’re wondering, “what’s a programming language?” don’t worry, you’re not alone.
A programming language is a specific, coded language used to convey instructions to a machine—in most cases, a computer. Because machines work in a specific way, programmers must use formal languages to communicate with computers and develop software programs, express algorithms, or provide specific instructions.
The better a programmer understands one of these languages (including its syntax and grammar), the more likely they’re able to get the computer to accomplish exactly what they want in the quickest amount of time.
Here are the best coding languages for kids, followed by detailed descriptions for each, and suggestions in terms of the best coding classes for kids:
- Scratch
- Python
- JavaScript
- Java
- C++
Scratch: Best to get kids excited about coding
When it comes to coding for kids, visual programming languages like Scratch provide a solid foundation of programming principles, with kids being able drag and drop code blocks to animate characters, create games, and build apps.
Best of all, their simplicity gets kids excited about coding! Visual programming languages can be used to make interactive stories, games, and animations.
Great for:
- Kids who don’t have programming experience and/or are younger
- Showing kids how fun coding can be
- Visual learners
- Teaching basic concepts, like problem-solving and if-then thinking
What your child could create at KASE Edutech: A fun animated game or story!
Featured courses and lessons: Course details
Python – Best for beginners (and for versatility!)
Named after the comedy series Monty Python, Python is considered one of the easiest coding languages to learn, in part because of its simplified syntax and focus on whitespace. Python requires fewer lines of code to get up and running, so even beginners can start creating relatively quickly.
Companies like Google and Disney use Python, and it’s very popular in scientific fields, where individuals are scientists first and programmers second. This language can be used to develop video games, web frameworks, and many scientific and numeric computing projects.
Python programming is great for kids, and is also versatile enough to be used in intricate fields like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Now that’s a flexible and powerful language!
Great for:
- Kids and teens who want to get their ideas up and running in little time
- Creating easy-to-read code that looks a lot like regular English
- Students interested in pursuing scientific fields, especially artificial intelligence
What your child could create at KASE Edutech: built a technology product such as game, website, software
Featured courses and lessons: Course details
JavaScript – Best for reaching a web audience
JavaScript is an object-oriented and procedural programming language that’s used for front-end or client-facing applications, meaning its actions are executed on the user’s computer.
The language is very popular, supported by many users (and jobs!), and is native on all web browsers. JavaScript is most commonly used to make complex and interactive web applications.
Though their names sound similar, Java and JavaScript are two very different coding languages (see the next section).
Great for:
- Students who are interested in web development and design
- Kids who want to start learning the fundamentals of programming
What your child could create at KASE Edutech: Build the Web in HTML5.
Featured courses and lessons: Course details
Java (Minecraft coding language) – Best for intermediate students
Java is one of the most widely used programming languages in the world, with analysts saying that about 90 percent of Fortune 500 companies leverage Java. So it’s a great option for students who want a rich understanding of coding that can be built upon for years to come.
Java is a statically typed language, meaning it requires you to specify a variable type. While this means that apps built with Java are known to be more scalable, stable, and maintainable, it also means that Java can take longer to master than other languages.
Java is good for kids because it can be used to make game engines, Android mobile apps, large backend environments, and much more.
Great for:
- Intermediate coders who want to strengthen their skill set
- Kids to learn Java principles through a fun game like Minecraft
- Teens who are preparing to take the Computer Science AP Exam
- Teens who want to develop a strong understanding of programming concepts
- Patient students who don’t mind taking time to learn the language’s syntax
C++ – Best for a deeper understanding of computer science
Pronounced “see plus plus,” this programming language is used to create applications that run locally on machines such as your computer.
Despite the time and complexity required to learn C++, this language will provide teens with a very deep understanding of programming. C++ can be used to create systems software, games, and a variety of other programs.
Great for:
- Teens who want a complex understanding of programming principles
- Students who want to program in the gaming industry
- Your student’s résumé—jobs expect programmers to have a level of familiarity with C++
(reference source: IDTech)
Give your child a creative edge!
There are numerous reasons why kids and teens should learn to code. Improve your child’s computational thinking skills, creativity, and if-then reasoning with an amazing course at KASE Edutech.
While this guide should give you a good understanding of which programming languages might be the best fit for your child, remember that when in doubt—just choose!
Every one of these languages will help students better understand programming principles and get excited about coding. For more help selecting a course, you can reach out to our Course Counsellors. They love helping families like yours every day!
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