Learn how to teach coding to kids with online courses and programs
Why should kids learn coding languages?
At its heart, coding is a means of problem solving through technology. By learning to code, kids can be active participants in the world around them and gain important life skills, such as critical thinking, independence, and creativity.Footnote 1
At the same time, learning coding prepares kids for their future careers. In a digital age, being comfortable using technical tools is important for professionals in most industries, and young coders have ample opportunities to gain confidence using advanced technology.
By applying coding principles to game-style activities, kids’ programming courses make learning how to code fun and engaging. With edX, kids can start to explore technical concepts in a low-stakes environment, allowing them to build toward their future.
Browse online kids’ coding courses
Kid-friendly coding course curriculum
When kids are learning to code, it’s important to choose a course that aligns with their current developmental stage and educational level. edX offers options for teachers engaging with learners in various age groups.
For kids in kindergarten to third grade, courses may cover how to teach digital literacy basics, including lessons on:
Computational thinking through interactive activities
Inspiring learners to engage in computational thinking
Understanding how technology impacts society
Teaching coding and its constraints, including plugged and unplugged methods
Educators working with children in fourth through tenth grades may be able to explore coding concepts from a higher level. edX courses can help teachers prepare for a variety of learning scenarios and succeed in communicating technical concepts to young learners.
Learning about how to teach coding can supplement your abilities as an educator and expand your career opportunities. edX offers a variety of educational options for learners interested in studying these topics, as well as a host of other disciplines. A boot camp can provide flexible, hands-on learning for those who want to upskill quickly, while executive education courses are designed for busy professionals. You can also pursue a more comprehensive curriculum in a bachelor’s degree program or, for more advanced learners, a master’s degree program. Find the right learning path for you.
Explore jobs that use coding skills
Because coding builds skills beyond those needed in programming, kids who learn to code can set their sights on careers across many different fields. Creativity, problem-solving, and technical abilities are important for individuals interested in jobs including:
Web developer: Writes, tests, and deploys code that powers websites and software applications.Footnote 2
Game developer: Develops the code behind digital games on various platforms, such as consoles, computers, and mobile devices.Footnote 3
User experience (UX) designer: Creates engaging interfaces for websites and applications based on an intuitive user experience.Footnote 4
Digital marketer: Communicates a brand’s message on digital platforms while contributing to business objectives.Footnote 5
Data analyst: Collects, organizes, and analyzes data, presenting their findings in easy to understand visualizations.Footnote 6
Each of these roles will have different education and skills requirements. For example, you may be able to build relevant skills in a coding boot camp. However, some employers may seek candidates with a degree depending on the role. Before deciding on a specific learning path, research the positions you hope to pursue and align your coursework with your career goals.