If you own a computer, use the internet and play games on them, you might have heard the term Python. Python is an easy to learn yet powerful programming language. Widely used to develop websites, apps, games and much more, Python is used by many organisations in some of the most innovative technologies in the world. And while learning to write code can be a challenge for young children, Python brings focus and excitement to the table without overwhelming you or your child. Read on to learn more.

Python is relatively simple

Python makes a great first language because it teaches students the fundamentals of writing code that is easy to read and understand. The syntax is straightforward enough and very readable once you get familiar with it, so it’s a good programme to use if you want to teach it to kids.

In fact, the simplicity and power of the language has made it an increasingly popular language for kids, and those who are just starting out to learn.  Kids come out of their first Python courses with a solid foundation in computer science fundamentals, and a great sense of accomplishment, which is something they’ll need as they progress through more advanced programming languages.

A wide variety of uses

Python is an incredibly versatile language, meaning it can be used for almost anything. Besides helping children understand more about how computers work and also how you can use them in creative ways, it can be also used as a gateway into other programming languages like Java and C++. All these things add up to make Python one of the most popular languages among techies.

With Python you can create programs that do anything from writing simple scripts for your computer and computational applications of all sizes to robotics to even making full-blown applications for smartphones or tablets. Helping your kids get started with Python can open up their imaginations to the possibilities of what they can do with technology.

It’s free and open source

Python is an open source programming language. It is free of charge, and the OSI-approved licence under which it is developed makes it a language that can be used and distributed freely.  At the same time, Python has a huge base of online resources and tools. These include tutorials, sample programs and project ideas, so your child won’t get stuck trying to figure out what to do next.

Python has a vast community of developers that will only continue to grow in popularity and importance in our everyday lives. By providing a platform for your child to see software development as play, you can help them develop important problem-solving skills without even realising they’re learning.

Conclusion

Python has grown by leaps and bounds in popularity with its usage in major websites that are household names. The benefits of learning Python are plentiful and there are many fun and easy activities to introduce it to children, making it a wonderful first programming language to learn. And even if they don’t end up going into computer science, they’ll still have learned important problem solving skills and how to apply them in order to achieve their goals.

Interested to let your child have a go at learning Python? Ripplecreate is a coding school in Singapore that runs our very own coding classes for kids in the form of weekly classes under our Ripple Tech Program. Kids will learn not just Python, but also other coding languages and various applications. Come and let your child discover the exciting things they can do by coding!