December 9-15, 2024 is Computer Science Education Week, an “annual call to action to inspire K-12 students to learn computer science, advocate for equity, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers and partners to the field.” Computer programming–coding–is a part of the Provincial Curriculum, with explicit coding skills identified to improve problem solving and develop fluency with technology, taught throughout the year. Next week, many students at our school and across York Region (and all over the world) will also take part in the Hour of Code initiative. 

This may be a wonderful opportunity to try something new with your children at home, too! While coding may seem intimidating, at first, the Hour of Code is intended for even the earliest beginner (even pre-readers!) all the way through computer-savvy secondary school students –and no experience is needed whatsoever to get started.

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 flappy game.  Or they can leverage the power of AI to host a digital dance party.  Or create their very own Google logo!  Or explore the joy of bubble popping with characters from Inside Out 2.  Or literally hundreds of other possibilities, organized by grade!  There are activities geared for all ages, from kindergarten through grade 8 (and beyond).

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