This Monday kicks off Computer Science Education Week (December 5-11, 2022) where many students from all over the world will be participating in the Hour of Code.  Computer programming–coding–is increasingly finding its way into the Provincial Curriculum with explicit coding skills identified to improve problem solving and develop fluency with technology, and many students at our school and across York Region take part in the Hour of Code initiative.  While coding may seem intimidating, at first, the Hour of Code is intended for even the earliest beginner –no experience is needed whatsoever!

This may be a wonderful opportunity to try something new with your children at home, too!  The Hour of Code staff has created self-guided tutorials and videos on their website so other than your willingness to try, no programming background is required for these activity.  If you want to get involved, simply visit hourofcode.com with your child and find an appropriate activity. Your child can design, code and play their own retro arcade game (very cool, with lots of options!)  Or they can code a card for their grandparents.  Or create their very own Google logo!  Or even make their own music.  Or literally hundreds of other possibilities, organized by grade!  There are activities geared for all ages, even pre-readers!

While many students will get taste of coding in the weeks and months ahead, don’t hesitate to bring coding into your own home.  It’s a fun way to learn together!