Most coding camps teach children to complete a very limited project

(eg. Make a robot or game)

while glossing over fundamental skills for continued learning– like how to find reliable information online.  Coding is a very broad term. Many people don’t know what it means, let alone how to evaluate the quality of their child’s program. A camp should spark your child’s interest and give them the tools to use what they learn throughout life.

Coding is creative problem solving.

You’re learning how to talk to a computer in a language it understands. The problem is- most of the time you and the computer are not on the same page. At Code Camp by Red Sunflower students learn HTML and CSS. HTML is a computer language that dictates the physical structure of a webpage.

CSS is a language that applies styles to the HTML. Think of HTML as the wall and CSS is the paint.

Webpage with HTML structure only

Webpage with CSS styles added

These languages are a staple of web development and are involved in nearly every project. They also offer instantaneous feedback for interactive learning.

You’ll know your child has a solid understanding of the internet, HTML and CSS if they can create a working webpage.

Once your child can make a webpage and understands how to share information online they are plugged into a limitless network of information. It’s important for them to learn how to evaluate information and conduct themselves online in a manner that is safe and responsible. This is something that is often overlooked.

Learning to code is both exciting and frustrating as it teaches you to think in a new way. Each child deserves individualized instruction and coaching to ensure they don’t get overwhelmed and lose interest. Large class sizes and cookie cutter programs do not provide this. It’s also valuable for kids to get an opportunity to build relationships with other silly, smart, and quirky kids.

Learn more about Code Camp by Red Sunflower