Computer or Programming Classes?

[Anonymous]

My 2nd grader is obsessed with computers, technology, the workings and mechanism of laptops and desktops, how the motherboard works and more!! I'd love to further his interest in learning more, but I'm kinda lost on which direction to take! Are there any programming classes or computer classes for elementary kids?

He does read books and online videos, but I was wondering if there are any programs or classes at all? Thank you!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My 2nd grader is obsessed with computers, technology, the workings and mechanism of laptops and desktops, how the motherboard works and more!! I'd love to further his interest in learning more, but I'm kinda lost on which direction to take! Are there any programming classes or computer classes for elementary kids?

He does read books and online videos, but I was wondering if there are any programs or classes at all? Thank you!

Some schools and even Parktakes have basic programming classes. If you want to get involved, search online. There are a ton of kids programming classes. Code academy is one. Download this program called scratch. It's easy enough for a second grader to learn.

Act quick before their interests change towards the more mundane You tube and instagram which it will eventually if they have enough free time on their hands..

Good luck!

[Anonymous]

Are you more interested in software (programming) classes? Those are more common, but it sounds like your son is more interested in the hardware part, and I think that's very unique and interesting. You could try home kits as well, like littlebits. My second grader has one and loves it. As for classes, I don't know much about them but a quick google search for northern virginia electronics classes for kids brought up a few links like this one: http://www.engineeringforkids.net/location/nova/Programs

[Anonymous]

Go google a recommended parts list for a desktop computer. You can price to whatever you're comfortable with. This can be 3-400 to a few grand. Build it with your child and then use it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Go google a recommended parts list for a desktop computer. You can price to whatever you're comfortable with. This can be 3-400 to a few grand. Build it with your child and then use it.

While this is not exactly programming, check out Novalabs - http://www.nova-labs.org/blog/. Its a Makerspace where they a lot of Tech activities going on - Robotics, CNC machines, building 3D printers and drones from scratch, etc. Your child may find something interesting to do there.

[Anonymous]

My kids love Tynker. They have online courses and a sandbox for programming on their own.

[Anonymous]

Stem Excel has classes at various schools hosted by the PTA. They also have camps and classes at their GMU location.