8 Best Books to Teach Your Kids Programming
Is your child an avid reader with a curiosity for technology? Introducing them to coding through books can be a fantastic way to enhance their STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) skills. From web development to software creation, coding can unlock a world of opportunities for your child.
Why Coding Books?
Bill Gates, James Gosling, and Mark Zuckerberg weren't born as tech geniuses; they learned and honed their coding skills over time. By introducing your children to coding through engaging and educational books, you can set them on a path to potentially becoming the next big name in tech. Here are some top picks to get them started.
1. HTML for Babies by John C. Vanden-Heuvel, Sr.
Introduce your child to web design with this adorable book. It uses letterforms, visual patterns, and symbols to help babies understand the basics of HTML. After mastering HTML, they can move on to CSS for Babies, which is perfect for toddlers learning about cascading style sheets.
2. Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding by Linda Liukas
This imaginative storybook about Ruby, a young girl who learns about computational thinking, pattern recognition, and coding concepts, is perfect for young readers. Supported by apps and online games, this book makes learning coding fun and interactive.
3. Coding Games in Scratch by Jon Woodcock
This book uses the Scratch app, a free coding language for kids, to teach them how to create their own games. With step-by-step visual guides and captivating imagery, your child will fall in love with coding through this engaging book.
4. Usborne's Coding for Beginners Using Scratch & Lift-the-Flap Computers and Coding
Usborne Publishing offers these comprehensive books to teach young kids the basics of coding with Scratch. Filled with compelling pictures and interactive flaps, these books are designed to entertain and educate 21st-century learners.
5. The Official ScratchJr Book: Help Your Kids Learn to Code
Ideal for younger kids aged 5 to 9, this book simplifies block-based coding lessons through fun projects in the ScratchJr app. It's a great way to introduce coding terminology and prepare them for more advanced coding.
6. Learn to Program with Scratch
Aimed at kids aged 10 and above, this 300-page book covers coding fundamentals using Scratch. It introduces concepts like conditional statements and variables, preparing kids for more complex programming.
7. Python for Kids: A Playful Introduction to Programming by Jason R. Briggs
Python is a versatile programming language, and this book makes it accessible and fun for kids. Through engaging lessons and hands-on projects, children can learn to code in Python and develop a strong foundation in programming.
8. DK Coding Workbooks
This trilogy, including Computer Coding, Coding in Scratch: Games Workbook, and Coding in Scratch: Projects Workbook, provides a comprehensive learning experience. Each book features exercises and projects that help kids understand and apply coding concepts independently.
Benefits of Coding Books
- Enhanced Vocabulary: Coding books help kids familiarise themselves with common programming terms, aiding in their overall technological literacy.
- Practical Skills: These books offer coding tips, techniques, and life skills, preparing kids for future careers in tech.
- Conceptual Understanding: They explain coding principles in a simple and engaging way, making complex ideas accessible.
- Good vs Bad Coding: Through examples, kids learn to identify and improve their coding skills.
- Interactive Activities: Many books include activities and tasks to apply what they've learned, making the experience hands-on and practical.
Beyond Books: Skill Samurai
For a more interactive learning experience, consider enrolling your child in coding classes at Skill Samurai in Auckland. They offer coding and robotics classes that use popular platforms like Minecraft, Python, Scratch, and Roblox. These classes can reinforce what your child learns from books and provide them with practical coding experience.
Sign up your kids with Skill Samurai and let them enjoy the fantastic world of coding. Combine the power of educational books with hands-on learning for a comprehensive approach to mastering coding skills.
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