Introduce a kid to computer programming
An increasing number of homes in the Maldives are getting equipped with at least one computer. Sadly, however, their use seems to stay limited to being simply a platform for games and accessing the internet for chat. Following in the footsteps of the "grown-ups", kids too stick to this notion of a computer being a big box with a screen for the said purposes. Reality, however, is that there is a plethora of uses for a computer that is more useful, educational and fun - things that will help stimulate the brain, especially a kid's brain.
Programming is one such use for a computer. It lets one build software and games. It lets one create. The desire to create is one of the most fulfilling and one of the most innate cravings we have. It is why we all revel in the act of painting, sculpting, drawing and even carpentry and masonry. Programming is also an essential part of modern education. It is required in many of the courses in graphics design, business administration, architecture and even economics. Knowledge of programming will help even if all one wants to become is an office secretary! So parents, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts etc etc ? Listen up! Here is something you can introduce to your favourite kiddo. Once they get hooked to programming, they won?t be running around the house with complaints of boredom?
Here are two ways I recommend you take to getting a kid into programming. Both options cost you zilch...
Phrogram
Phrogram, the latest version of the Kids Programming Language, is a programming language/environment specially crafted for kids. It was designed to teach kids how to program in a fun and enjoyable manner. It lets one create anything from word editors to games. The software comes with several tutorials on getting started and using its various features. It is said to have been designed in such a manner so as to make the transition to ?grown up? languages like VB, C# and Java a simple matter. The basic version of the software is free. I reckon this might be a neat addition to the computer classes run in the primary schools.
- Click here to go to Phrogram homepage
Visual C# 2005 - Express Edition
This offering from Microsoft is a great introductory path to the power of Microsoft?s newest programming language: C#. The Express edition includes much of the features found in the Professional versions of the software. There are loads and loads of free C# tutorials and guides on the net that can be used in tandem with the Express edition to make learning easy and fast. With this package, the jump to professional programming is just a matter of gaining confidence and understanding. This option is more suitable to older children and youth. The software is available to download for free from the Microsoft website.
- Click here to go the Visual C# Express Edition homepage.
Have fun!
Programming is one such use for a computer. It lets one build software and games. It lets one create. The desire to create is one of the most fulfilling and one of the most innate cravings we have. It is why we all revel in the act of painting, sculpting, drawing and even carpentry and masonry. Programming is also an essential part of modern education. It is required in many of the courses in graphics design, business administration, architecture and even economics. Knowledge of programming will help even if all one wants to become is an office secretary! So parents, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts etc etc ? Listen up! Here is something you can introduce to your favourite kiddo. Once they get hooked to programming, they won?t be running around the house with complaints of boredom?
Here are two ways I recommend you take to getting a kid into programming. Both options cost you zilch...
Phrogram
Phrogram, the latest version of the Kids Programming Language, is a programming language/environment specially crafted for kids. It was designed to teach kids how to program in a fun and enjoyable manner. It lets one create anything from word editors to games. The software comes with several tutorials on getting started and using its various features. It is said to have been designed in such a manner so as to make the transition to ?grown up? languages like VB, C# and Java a simple matter. The basic version of the software is free. I reckon this might be a neat addition to the computer classes run in the primary schools.
- Click here to go to Phrogram homepage
Visual C# 2005 - Express Edition
This offering from Microsoft is a great introductory path to the power of Microsoft?s newest programming language: C#. The Express edition includes much of the features found in the Professional versions of the software. There are loads and loads of free C# tutorials and guides on the net that can be used in tandem with the Express edition to make learning easy and fast. With this package, the jump to professional programming is just a matter of gaining confidence and understanding. This option is more suitable to older children and youth. The software is available to download for free from the Microsoft website.
- Click here to go the Visual C# Express Edition homepage.
Have fun!
