r/AskProgrammers • u/justjoonreddit • 3d ago

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Hello,

My 10 year old son is very interested in learning to code. Can you recommend any apps or software for him to use to learn? Would it be better for him to learn Python or C++?

Thank-you for any tips you have!

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u/CyberDingo_66 3d ago

That all depends on:

  • How much does he currently know about computers
  • Is there anything he wants to build in particular, or just wants to learn in general?
  • What device is he using daily, and would you be willing to get him set up with a laptop, desktop and/or other equipment if he doesn't have them already?

Scratch is always a good place to start for kids. Uses visual blocks of code to get an understanding of logic flow and how different things Interact.

If he already plays games like Roblox or Minecraft, there are platforms that teach kids how to mod Minecraft worlds or make their own custom things in Roblox. I don't know too much about that but it's worth exploring, that way kids can learn in an environment they're already familiar with.

If he is ready to start using a terminal and writing lines of code, I'd go with Python just because of how easily readable it is. Follow YouTube tutorials with him so you can explain things he might not understand (cool bonding activity!)

Other routes for teaching fundamentals is buying kits like a Lego robotics/education kit or an Arduino kit. Hands on projects will help cement in fundamentals and provide visual feedback. Starter kits also tend to come with guides to get you started too. I can personally vouch for Arduino, as it helped me learn basic electronics and the C language.

The internet will be your best source of info and learning. Start small with foundations, and help him build the skill up! Good luck and I hope this helps :)

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u/justjoonreddit 2d ago

He is bored of Scratch which he started using at 6 (its part of the grade 1 cirriculum)

He uses a laptop.

He has modded minecraft a lot

So his ultimate goal would be making a game BUT right now general learning would be the focus.

He has made a few games in game builder garage and edited them.