First Time Coders: A Definitive Guide to Coding for Children

by Michelle Sun

Computer programming may well be tomorrow's "new literacy." Coding offers children a creative avenue to express themselves through technology and opens the door to unlimited opportunities in the digital era.

First Time Coders, written by an MIT Master Trainer for coding education and award-winning founder of a STEM and coding education institute, is the essential handbook for parents whose kids are starting their coding journey, or are already coding and eager to learn more. You will find: ● Advice and solutions to common challenges about youth tech usage.● Essential principles when learning to code.● Introduction of 15+ age-appropriate coding languages and tools for children aged 4 to 18.● 20+ step-by-step hands-on coding projects followed by challenges.● Computer science concepts for each project.● Tips for adults to discuss these concepts in-depth.Start your child's coding adventure with First Time Coders!

Genres: Teaching

214 pages, Paperback

Published September 5, 2019

Reviews

[EMMA · Rating 5 out of 5]

What stayed with me after reading *First Time Coders* was that it treats coding as a creative form of expression rather than simply a technical skill. Michelle Sun encourages parents to see programming as a way for children to explore ideas, solve problems, and build confidence through hands on learning.

I especially appreciated how the book combines guidance for adults with practical learning experiences for children. The introduction to age appropriate coding languages and tools, together with step by step projects and explanations of computer science concepts, creates a progression that grows alongside a child's development. Just as valuable are the discussion prompts that help parents move beyond completing activities and encourage deeper conversations about how technology works.

This book will resonate with parents, teachers, homeschool families, and anyone introducing children to programming. The strongest takeaway is that a child's first experience with coding should inspire curiosity and creativity just as much as technical understanding.

[Ferry · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unclear what the target audience. It contains something for both adults and children, but the part that is 'not for you' is probably not very interesting. Which happens to be most of the book. Expected less of a 'click this, type this' book and more how to guide your children with their questions and what to do and what not

[Carolina · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're interested in getting children involved into coding, this is the "definitive guide" to use for that task. The book is even great for adults that want to learn the basics of coding without being completely intimidated. It's definitely a book worth having around to reference in the future or for a refresher.