Start Coding - My First Coding Game
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In the box
• 1 Double-sided game board
• 12 Challenges on laminated cards
• 12 Wooden arrow tiles
• 4 Wooden character tiles
• Includes instructions in Afrikaans and English
Coding games teach children the fundamental principles of programming and computer science through play by focusing on game mechanics and challenges. Children learn essential concepts without realizing they are engaging in a structured lesson.
Computational thinking
This broad set of problem-solving skills is at the core of what coding games teach and can be applied to many other areas of life. It includes:
Decomposition: Breaking down a complex problem into smaller, more manageable parts. For example, a game that involves a robot navigating a maze requires breaking the overall journey into a series of individual moves.
Pattern recognition: Identifying similarities, patterns, or trends within a larger problem. Recognizing repeating sequences of commands helps kids learn to be more efficient with their code.
Abstraction: Focusing on the important details of a problem while ignoring irrelevant information. For instance, children might learn to use a general "move forward" command instead of a specific one for every single step.
Algorithmic thinking: Creating a step-by-step set of instructions to solve a problem. This is essentially the process of writing a program, and games help kids master this skill logically and systematically.
Core coding concepts
Simple coding games introduce children to the basic building blocks of any programming language.
Sequencing: This involves placing commands in the correct order to achieve a desired outcome. A racing game like Code Karts requires kids to sequence directional commands to navigate their kart on a track.
Loops: Repeating a series of actions instead of manually writing out the same instructions multiple times. Games with repeating actions, like a character jumping, introduce the concept of a loop.
Conditionals: These are "if-then" commands that allow a program to make decisions. A game might use a conditional like, "If the character touches a coin, then increase the score".
Debugging: The process of finding and fixing errors in code. When a child's character in a game doesn't behave as expected, they must troubleshoot their commands to find the "bug" and correct it.
Variables: A fundamental concept where a symbol or word can stand for a changing value, such as a player's score or a timer.
Transferable skills
Beyond specific coding fundamentals, these games also foster cognitive and creative skills that benefit children in many other contexts.
Logical reasoning: Kids learn to analyse a situation and predict the outcome of their actions. This is reinforced by the immediate feedback they receive in a game environment.
Creative expression: Platforms like Scratch and Tynker allow children to design their own games and animations, encouraging them to bring their imaginative ideas to life.
Persistence and resilience: Facing bugs and challenging puzzles teaches children to persevere through setbacks. They learn that mistakes are part of the process and not a reason to quit.
Collaboration: Many coding platforms include features for sharing and remixing projects, which encourages collaboration with others in the online community.
