The debate of whether coding for kids online is equal to screen time for young kids has been growing steadily in recent years. With the rise of the digital age, coding has become an increasingly important part of the educational landscape, and there is no doubt that coding can be a great learning tool for kids. However, many parents worry that spending too much time coding online may harm a child’s development, particularly for younger children.
It is important to consider both sides of the argument to answer this question. On the one hand, coding online can help to broaden children’s horizons, teaching them valuable skills that can be used in the real world. With coding, young kids can learn to think logically, problem-solve, and develop creative solutions to real-world problems. Furthermore, coding can help to develop a child’s understanding of technology and the digital world, giving them the skills needed to thrive in the modern world.
On the other hand, many parents worry that too much screen time for young kids can harm their growth and development. That screen time can indeed be linked to a range of adverse outcomes, including sleep deprivation, poor concentration, and increased risk of mental health problems. Furthermore, if coding is used as a substitute for physical activity or outdoor play, it can have a negative effect on a child’s physical health.
Ultimately, it is impossible to definitively answer the question of whether coding for kids online is equal to screen time for young kids. However, it is essential to consider both sides of the argument and ensure that children do not spend too much time coding online. With a balanced approach to screen time and coding, children can benefit from the educational and creative benefits of coding without compromising their physical and mental health.
As a mother, I can add that we have been teaching our son coding since he turned five years old. We limit his screen time before and after the coding lesson. With the digital era growing and two years of online schooling during the pandemic, we have to be flexible regarding screen time. Moreover, we can’t eliminate games, devices and computers, but we, as parents, have to instill healthy digital habits in our children.
You can register for a free trial coding class for kids by clicking on this link.