Practicing Computer Science Skills with Kids at Home
Photo by Robo Wunderkind on Unsplash
As parents, we are always trying to prepare our kids for the future and computer science is one of those things that is shaping our generation. There are coding classes and STEM programs in schools and educational centers, but that’s not all that computer science is. Sure, taking a class can teach your child about algorithms and coding, but there are way less intimidating, and less technical ways to approach computer science ––and yes, these can be achieved all from the comfort of home.
Perhaps you have little ones at home that aren’t ready for advanced programming lessons or you have children who shy away from the subjects of math and science. We’re going to break down the skills that underlie computer science for you, spoiler alert: they don’t require a computer.
What is computer science? Take a look at this video from Hello Ruby.
Computer science is going to be relevant to this entire generation, not just those who choose to pursue a career in computer science. So let’s look at the skills our children need to conquer computer science skills and start with the fundamentals.
Katie Hessen, M.S., Science Producer and STEM Content Specialist at PBS Kids says that computational thinking is a foundational skill that is the crux of computer science. These creative and problem solving skills focus on key practices like: decomposition, debugging, persistence, and pattern recognition. These thinking practices are likely to be used within daily life, and best of all can be intentionally practiced as a family.
Practicing Computational Skills at Home:
Decomposition
Decomposition helps your child solve complex problems by breaking them down into small, manageable parts. Think of a big chore you do with your kids, such as cleaning a bedroom. Tackling the messy room may feel overwhelming, so what do you do first? By breaking the large problem – cleaning the room – into smaller pieces, like picking up toys, making the bed, and sweeping the floor, you are practicing decomposition and solving a problem one step at a time.
Debugging
Debugging means problem solving by testing solutions and making adjustments until the problem is solved. Debugging is crucial in computer programming, as well as engineering and experimenting. Being intentional about debugging can be as simple as vocalizing your thought process to your child while you work through problems together. For example, “I don’t know why your toy isn’t working. What can we try first to make it work? Should we see if it needs new batteries, or maybe there is something stuck in the wheel? Let’s test it out!”
Persistence
Persistence is your ability to power through when the going gets tough. Children are constantly adjusting their world views when confronted by new information. It is only by persisting in tasks that may be difficult, like learning to ride a bike, or reading a book, or working a computer program, that children can master new skills.
Pattern Recognition
Kids love patterns! Recognizing and creating patterns can be a fun game for young children, but did you know that pattern recognition is also important in computer science? Part of the amazing power of computer programming is repeating patterns in complex systems so that a computer can use repetition to make something simpler.
Computer science is so much more than just programming robots or creating a video game. It can be extremely fun for all ages.
Source: Katie Hessen, M.S. PBS.org
If you’re looking for free activities to do with your kids or online games that introduce coding and basic concepts of programming, check out this list of resources.
Play & Activities
Hello Ruby is a children’s book series that introduces children to the world of computer science with a playful and creative perspective. Helloruby.com is full of wonderful activities for parents to do with their children that cover topics of technology, computers and coding. Their activities include crafts, problem solving, creative activities and more. Parents can download their materials and use common household items to complete the activities (computer-free!).
Codequest: In this online adventure, your child will take Subbie the submarine through underwater challenges, learning to code to help find various items on the ocean floor. (PBS.org)
Aquabots: Your child will learn about persistence and debugging by designing an underwater ROV to help retrieve the ring from the water in this online SciGirls game. (PBS.org)
PBS KIDS ScratchJr App: Kids learn to code by creating their own interactive stories and games featuring their favorite PBS KIDS characters using this app.(PBS.org)
Robot Turtles: Learn basic concepts of computer programming by playing this engaging board game for ages 4-8! (PBS.org)
Source: https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/practicing-computer-science-skills-anytime
Coding for Beginners
Code Monster: The monster walks you through learning to code. Follow his directions and see how changing the code changes the image on the screen.
Challenge: Waving Snowman: See if you can make your snowman move!
Intro to Code Studio Video: Watch this video to learn all about how you can learn coding skills. Click continue to move forward and begin practicing.
Scratch: Catch Game: Follow along to learn how to code your own falling objects game.
Source: maryville.edu
