Should I Send My Elementary Schooler to a Coding Academy?
My child is in fourth grade, and they said they really enjoyed a coding class at school. They're begging me to send them to a coding academy, but I'm torn because some people around me say it's still too early, while others say kids these days go.
Personally, I think it's more important to practice breaking problems down logically than to learn syntax, but I'm not sure whether academy curricula are geared in that direction. Between block coding and Python, which should they be introduced to first?
I'd like to hear from those who have taught their own kids.
7 answers
For 4th grade, starting with block coding (Entry/Scratch) is the standard path. Python involves typing text, English, and abstract concepts, so starting in 5th or 6th grade is plenty early enough. If your kid keeps asking, let them try Entry for free first.
Agreed, starting from block coding
"Everyone does it these days" is mostly something you hear at academy consultations lol. If you heard it from other moms, just let it go in one ear and out the other. My kid begged me in 4th grade, so I sent them, but they lost interest after two months, and I regretted not just buying Lego with that money instead. For now, try free sites for 2–3 weeks, and if your kid sticks with it on their own, decide then.