xxii Introduction
Everyone can learn to code; it’s just like solving a puzzle or a
riddle. You apply logic, try a solution, experiment a little more, and
then solve the problem. The time to start learning to code is now!
We are at an unprecedented time in history: never before could bil-
lions of people connect with one another every day like we do now
with computers. We live in a world of many new possibilities, from
electric cars and robot caregivers to drones that deliver packages
and even pizza.
If your children start learning to code today, they can help
define this fast-changing world.Why should Kids Learn to Code?
There are many great reasons to learn computer programming,
but here are my top two:
• Coding is fun.
• Coding is a valuable job skill.Coding Is fun
Technology is becoming a part of everyday life. Every company,
charitable organization, and cause can benefit from technology.
There are apps to help you buy, give, join, play, volunteer, connect,
share—just about anything you can imagine.
Have your children wanted to build their own level for their
favorite video game? Coders do that! What about create their own
phone app? They can bring that idea to life by programming it on
a computer! Every program, game, system, or app they’ve ever
seen was coded using the same programming building blocks
they’ll learn in this book. When kids program, they take an active
role in technology—they’re not just having fun, they’re making
something fun!Coding Is a Valuable Job skill
Coding is the skill of the 21st century. Jobs today require more
problem-solving ability than ever before, and more and more
careers involve technology as an integral requirement.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that more
than 8 million technology jobs will be created in just the next
five years. Seven of the ten fastest-growing occupations in the