While modern programming has been around for decades, our world is now even more reliant on software and digital developments in a post-digital age where new innovations are released almost daily.

Generation Z – our very own digital natives - are growing up surrounded by more technology than previous generations. In a world where our reality is persistently shaped by technology, it clearly plays a critical role. But can you imagine what the future will hold? And further, how this will affect our children in years to come?

This is the main reason I make time to volunteer with the Young Coders group. I believe that coding is an essential skill that young children should be equipped with from an early age.

What is the Young Coders group and what is their mission?

If you haven't heard of Young Coders before, they are a not-for-profit organisation with the aim of bringing practitioners together from all around Australia to create a place where children from all backgrounds can come and learn about technology, for free.

Comprising developers, designers and managers that are passionate about giving back to the community, they focus on providing basic coding lessons to kids and teenagers. They hold 2-hour workshops that run once or twice a month, at various locations around Melbourne. Previous workshops have included “Making Static Websites”, “Cyber Security”, and “Introduction to Virtual Reality”.

So, how do we teach our children to code, and why is this so important?

Below are 4 reasons why coding is important for young minds – and why I felt passionate and inspired to get involved with Young Coders…

1. Coding enhances problem-solving skills

Learning to code gives children direction and they soon learn that there is no one strict way to do things. It allows them to continually improve upon what they have already done without worrying about failing.

2. Coding is the new “language” of Gen Z

Language teaches children how to communicate, as well as logical thinking. It also strengthens both written and verbal skills, and coding is a new language in itself.

3. Coding fosters creativity

By experimenting, children learn and strengthen their brains. Even when they make a mistake, they learn. Children can be creative and creativity is encouraged. Creativity is part of the process throughout - not just the end product.

4. Coding improves writing and academic performance

Children who learn to code understand how to plan and organize thoughts.  This can lead to better writing skills that can be built upon as coding skills develop over time.

How to get involved

Young Coders is made up of developers, designers, and managers that are passionate about giving back to the community through education. However, you can get involved even if you can't write code yourself! For example, I've helped with a few things behind the scenes like meetings, ideas for workshops, sponsorships, planning, location scouting, etc. Morgan Consulting has also been very kind enough to allow Young Coders to run monthly meetings in their boardroom.

You can also donate to the GoFundMe page, here: https://www.gofundme.com/young-coders

Contact me on:

Email: vfarrington@morganconsulting.com.au

Phone: 03 8606 0397

Mobile: 0433 952 150