This Monday kicks off Computer Science Education Week (December 4-10, 2023) where many students from all over the world will be participating in the Hour of Code.  Computer programming–coding–is becoming more prominent in 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 (even pre-readers!) –and no experience is needed whatsoever to get started!

This may be a wonderful opportunity to try something new with your children at home, too. A more productive and engaging use of screen time, 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 3D T-Rex game.  Or they can leverage the power of AI to host a digital dance party.  Or create their very own Google logo!  Or even create their own poetry art.  Or literally hundreds of other possibilities, organized by grade!  There are activities geared for all ages, from kindergarten through grade 8!

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!