The Magnificent Robots are Coming! 7 Ways to Prepare YOUR Child.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, it’s no secret that ROBOTS and technology are taking center stage. From smartphones to self-driving cars, artificial intelligence to virtual reality, our lives are becoming increasingly intertwined with the digital realm. As a result, there’s a growing demand for individuals who can navigate this brave new world with confidence and expertise. So, where do we start preparing the next generation for this digital future? The answer is clear: robotics and coding. In this blog post, we’ll explore why it’s crucial for students, from elementary to high school, to get involved in robotics and coding.

1. Robots Bring: Problem Solving & Critical Thinking

One of the most compelling reasons for students to get involved in STEM is the cultivation of problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. When students engage in coding and robotics projects, they are essentially given a series of challenges that require creative solutions. They learn to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable components and use logic to arrive at solutions. These skills are not only applicable to the world of technology but also have real-life applications in virtually any field.

A great tool to build these skills is the Dash Robot by Wonder Workshop. It has easy-to-use apps that walk students through beginner coding. The kit says ages 5 and up but I have personally used this with younger children through 10 years of age and it worked beautifully.

2. Foster Creativity

Contrary to the misconception that programming is purely logical and robotic (pun intended), it’s a highly creative endeavor. Programming allows students to bring their ideas to life, whether it’s designing a game, creating a website, or building a robot. This creative outlet not only sparks inspiration but also teaches them that there are often multiple ways to approach a problem, encouraging them to think outside the box.

I have found Scratch through MIT to be an amazing FREE program that students can use to create video games, digital stories, and much more. Creativity is fostered while learning a multitude of programming skills such as IF/THEN statements, variables, nested loops, and more. Students do not need much help once a parent sets up their account, however, if they do find they need assistance, the book Coding Games in Scratch is perfect!

Additionally, we have created a course here at Code Craft Create which walks beginner students through learning to program using the Scratch platform. The course is a one-time fee and allows students access to the content forever. Introduction to Scratch Coding

3. Prepare for the Future Job Market

With the automation of many tasks and the increasing need for tech-savvy professionals in various industries, coding, and robotics have become fundamental skills. The job market is evolving, and those who possess these skills will be at a distinct advantage. Automation and robotics used to be seen mainly in manufacturing. However, as Director of Curriculum for ROOTS Education, I have developed a curriculum for students in the areas of logistics, semiconductor technology, and medical assistance. We continue to expand our curriculum offerings due to the high demand for automation and programming skills in a vast variety of fields. By starting early, students will be well-prepared to tackle the tech-heavy job market of the future.

4. Boost Confidence

As students tackle complex projects, they experience a sense of accomplishment that boosts their confidence. When they see their code run successfully or witness their robot perform tasks, it instills a sense of pride and self-assuredness. From watching a kindergartener solve a mission with their Dash robot to attending a First Lego League competition, these essential skills give students an amazing confidence boost. This newfound confidence can translate to success in other areas of their lives as well.

5. Collaboration & Teamwork

Working on robotics and coding projects often involves collaboration and teamwork. Students learn to communicate, share ideas, and divide tasks efficiently. These skills are not only crucial in tech-related professions but also in everyday life. As a teacher and coach, I have watched many students struggle with teamwork and collaboration. The majority of it is developmental but if we do not reach students during this crucial developmental time, they will face a larger challenge later in life. How many jobs can you name which require zero collaboration with another coworker? My guess is that you cannot come up with many. Once they learn how to collaborate well, they increase their social skills and again boost their self-confidence.

6. Robots are Relevant

These are not abstract concepts; they have real-world applications. For example, programming is used in the development of software, websites, and apps, while robotics is utilized in various industries, from manufacturing to healthcare. By engaging with these technologies, students can see the direct impact and relevance of their skills. A great program that emphasizes this concept is First Lego League. Each year the challenge and missions are centered around a real-world issue.

7. Encourages Life-long Learning

Participating and gaining these skills encourages a culture of lifelong learning, where students are motivated to explore and experiment with new technologies independently. In the fast-paced world of technology, adaptability and a thirst for learning are invaluable traits. These skills equip students with the tools they need to succeed in the future, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and confidence along the way. By preparing our students to tackle the digital age, we are not only ensuring their personal success but also laying the foundation for a society that can adapt and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of technology.

So, let’s encourage our young minds to embrace coding and robotics and witness the transformation of our future innovators, problem solvers, and creators.