When you’re looking for a coding class for your child, you want to find the best that’s out there. That means doing your homework and really getting to know what each place has to offer. You don’t want your child to be bored, but you also don’t want your child to be frustrated if the class is not for their level.

If you’ve been looking for the best coding classes for kids, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.  We’re going to take a look at what you should look for in a coding class for your child as well as some of the best options out there.

makerkids class

Why Should Kids Learn Coding?

If your child has never taken a coding class, you may wonder why it’s even important in the first place. There are several benefits to coding classes that lead more and more kids into the world of coding. Check them out:

Improves math skills

Since coding involves visualizing abstract concepts that can be applied to math problems, coding is a great tool that can improve math skills. This helps kids to also use their math skills in real-life situations.

Boosts creativity

With coding, you have to be creative and learn how to do new things. This involves child and error and encourages kids to use their creativity to reach their goals.

Helps with academic writing

When kids have to code, they have to organize and plan. These skills come in handy when kids have to write essays in school as well. They need to plan and organize their thoughts so that their ideas can come across clear and concise.

Builds confidence

Coding helps to build confidence in solving problems. Kids quickly learn that you have to go back and fix your mistakes quite frequently when you’re learning to code. They’ll keep doing it until they get it right. This will not only teach them confidence and perseverance but will also show them there is one way to complete a task.

What to Look for in the Best Coding Classes for Kids

Here are several things to look for before you book a coding class for your child:

Age Appropriateness

You don’t want the classes to group all of the kids together. If your child is eight years old, you want him to be with kids who are around his age, not teenagers. The same goes if you have teenagers, you want them to be with kids his age, not little ones. Ask the facility how the group the kids to make sure your child is placed correctly.

Small Classes

Whether it’s a virtual class or an in-person class, you don’t want there to be too many kids in the class. Opt for smaller classes so your child gets enough attention to ask questions and get help with their project.

Knowledgable Instructors

Ask about the background of the instructors and how much experience they have. You want people who know what they’re doing and who have taught kids before. Nothing is worse than an inexperienced instructor who has never worked with kids!

Good Reviews

It’s always good to talk to people who have used the facility. See what they have to say and ask the kids. Kids are brutally honest and will tell you what was good and bad about their experience.

Those are the main things you want to look for when you’re looking for the best coding classes for kids. Now we’re going to take a closer look at what these classes have to offer.

MakerKids Blockly Code Combat Code Monkey Kodable
Virtual Classes Virtual Program Virtual Program Virtual Program Virtual Program
5:1 student-teacher ratio N/A N/A Easy to follow programs N/A
Broken down into age-appropriate groups (grades 1-8) Only ages 8 and up Ages 5-17 Ages 9 and up Ages 4-11
Reasonably Priced Free Reasonably Priced Annual Subscription fees Free for basic curriculum
Experienced live instructors No live instructors Live instructors No live instructors Self-directed lessons

 

As you can see, MakerKids is one of the few programs that offers live instructors. This is important, especially for younger kids. It allows them to follow along easier and to ask questions when they need to. The programs are also broken down into different age groups and are age-appropriate.

How to Help Your Kids with Coding

If your child has never taken a coding class, it’s important for them to take their time. Learning how to code is a marathon, not a sprint. They may not grasp all of the concepts at first, but if they stick with it, they will learn.

Frustration is normal and there’s going to be a learning curve. You can help ease the frustration by making sure the classes they are in are age appropriate.  You also want the material to be challenging enough that they’re not getting bored.

Also, make sure the program is fun and interactive. If it’s boring, kids are not going to be interested. You want them to have fun and get excited about what they’re doing.

Are Your Kids Ready to Try Coding?

The only way your child will discover coding is if they try it themselves. This is why we offer a free coding trial class. Let your child explore coding with our MakerKids mentors. Our online classes encourage children and help them learn about the exciting world of coding. For more information on the programs at MakerKids call us at 1-844-MAKERKIDS or visit us online.

 

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