Why use hardware to learn coding for kids?

Intro

More and more parents and educators are recognizing the importance of teaching kids to code. It's a skill that will serve them well in their future careers, but it's also a great way to develop critical thinking skills and creativity. And while there are plenty of resources available for kids to learn how to code using software and online platforms, there's an equally valuable way for them to learn: hands-on hardware.

The Benefits of Hands-On Hardware

When kids learn to code using hardware, they get to see the immediate results of their coding. They can build gadgets, create games, and even program their own artwork. This kind of hands-on learning is great for kids because it's engaging and interactive, and it helps them develop a deeper understanding of how technology works.

Creativity

Hardware coding allows kids to express their creativity in a tangible way. They can build physical objects that move, light up, and make noise. This kind of creativity is important because it helps kids develop problem-solving skills and think outside the box.

Confidence

When kids build something with hardware, they get a sense of accomplishment that can be hard to replicate with software coding alone. They can see the results of their coding in the physical object they've created, and that is incredibly empowering. This helps kids develop confidence in their abilities and encourage them to take on more challenging projects in the future.

Skills in Non-Tech Fields

Hardware coding isn't just for tech careers. It can be applied in many different fields, from medicine to art. When kids learn to code using hardware, they develop problem-solving skills and logical thinking that can be applied to any field. They also gain an understanding of how technology works that will serve them well in any career.

Tools for Learning Hardware Coding

There are many tools available for kids to learn hardware coding. Some of the most popular include:

  • Let's Start Coding Kits - A line of complete "learn to code" kits that include instructions, accessories, and sequenced projects for beginners to follow. Online videos, hundreds of code samples, and challenges guide kids to building their own projects.

  • Raspberry Pi - A small, affordable computer "motherboard" that kids can use to build their own devices and projects. Raspberry Pi's are a more complex tool that require some coding knowledge and additional accessories to use.

  • Arduino - A microcontroller that can be used to build robots, sensors, and other electronic projects. Arduino can be a bit overwhelming for beginners, as the only support is a community-driven forum of questions and answers.

All of these tools allow kids to get hands-on with hardware coding and see the immediate results of their coding.

Hardware Coding Projects for Kids

There are many hardware coding projects for kids to try, including:

  • Building an instrument - Kids can use hardware coding to build their own pianos, theremins, or totally new instruments that combine the familiarity of their favorite songs with their new skill of coding.

  • Creating a customized toy - With a kit like Code Car from Let's Start Coding, kids can modify their toys to their liking.

  • Create a household gadget - Circuits in the Let's Start Coding Ultimate Kit can be used to make room decorations, automatic night lights, "sibling annoyers", or "clapper" lights that change colors. Whatever kids can dream up, they can code.

These projects are not only fun and engaging, but they also teach kids important skills like problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity.

Conclusion

Hardware coding is a valuable way for kids to learn how technology works and develop important skills like problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity. With tools like Let's Start Coding Kits, Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and Micro:bit, kids can get hands-on with hardware coding and see the immediate results of their coding. Whether they're building an instrument, toy, or household gadget, hardware coding projects are a fun and engaging way for kids to learn how to code and develop skills that will serve them well in any career or passion.

Check out the full lineup of Let's Start Coding kits on our shop page or on Amazon.com! 

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About Let’s Start Coding

Let’s Start Coding builds hands-on kits that teach typed coding for kids. Learners download free desktop software that includes step-by-step projects, code walkthroughs, and challenges. As kids complete challenges, they learn about fundamentals of typed code, like variables, functions, and loops. Most importantly, they're having fun building tangible electronic projects. Kids and parents can use the kits at home with an internet-connected Windows, Mac, or Chromebook computer.