Whether you are a teacher or have a kid interested in programming, sorting through the dozens of available options can be confusing if you’re unfamiliar with them. The following are five great programming languages (and environments) that will give kids a head start in the world of software development.
Why Motivation Matters More than Language
Before we begin, it’s important to remember that your child’s specific programming language isn’t as important as their motivation to work towards a particular goal, such as creating a game, solving a problem, or developing an app.Â
The good news is that most of the concepts taught in one programming language can be transferred easily to other languages (with only slight differences in syntax), so as long as your kid is enthusiastic about learning, you can’t go wrong.
Even though some languages and programming environments may be more enjoyable, there is no doubt about that. Although this list is not comprehensive or definitive, you will be off to a great start regardless of which language you choose.
Scratch
A very visual and easy-to-use programming language, Scratch is an educational project from MIT. Code blocks can be dragged and dropped by kids to create programs. The Scratch programming language is also prevalent, so that kids can learn much from it.Â
In any modern web browser, visit scratch.mit.edu to get started. You can code online for free and join a fun community with others to discuss your projects. You can download the Scratch programming editor if you prefer to work offline. Â
Swift Playgrounds
Developed by Apple for iOS and macOS, Swift is a relatively recently developed programming language. Professional developers can use it, but kids can also learn and use it efficiently, which makes it a good choice.Â
Kids can immediately see the results of their work when they use Swift and the Xcode programming environment. If they get comfortable enough, their knowledge will apply directly to iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Apple TV app development. Mac and iPad users can use Apple’s free Swift Playgrounds app to start. Learning Swift has never been more fun or colorful.
Python
Currently, Python is the most popular programming language in the world, and that’s likely to be due to its easy learning curve and widespread support. This makes it an ideal language for kids who want to learn a language with various practical applications.Â
Learning Python can lead to future job opportunities in web development, gaming, and machine learning, among other fields. You can learn Python for free on Windows, Mac, or Linux through Python’s official website or online tutorials, such as Raspberry Pi’s Introduction to Python. Â
Microsoft Small Basic
Microsoft designed tiny Basic to help kids transition from block-based programming (like Scratch) to text-based coding. It’s an ideal starting point if your child uses Windows. It’s easy to learn but powerful enough to create demos, miniature games, and applications. With only 14 keywords, it’s simple yet powerful.Â
Because it’s based on .NET, the skills can be transferred to Visual Basic. The results of Small Basic can be easily shared via the web even though it runs through a custom application. Small Basic is completely free, and Microsoft hosts tutorials and resources online. Â
Pico-8 or Solar2D (with Lua)
A “fantasy console” is a self-contained programming environment that looks and feels like an old-school 8-bit game console, like Pico-8 from Lexaloffle Games. Lua is the scripting language used. In addition to being fun to use, Pico-8 is easy to learn, and the interactive nature of the program allows kids to see their programs come to life. Lexaloffle’s website has Pico-8 for Windows, Mac, and Linux, which costs $15 (₱840).
You can also learn Lua with Pico-8 and apply it to other game engines, such as Solar2D, which makes it easier for kids to get into production game development beyond a fantasy console. Whether you’re using Windows or Mac, you can download Solar2D for free. I wish you a lot of fun while coding.
