“Coding is telling a computer what to do,” librarian Tina Smith told kindergartners at Northeast Elementary School in introducing them to computer programming.


Over the past several weeks, students have been participating in different coding activities. They created algorithms, or sets of directions, to get Botley the robot from one point to another using simple commands such as forward, backward, right and left. If Botley did not reach its expected destination, children had to review the code they created and make changes. 


Students also learned about text-based programming languages with activities available through Code.org. Kindergartners do drag-and-drop coding on iPads in which they arrange blocks to create a set of a directions that makes a character move. The young programmers must complete different challenges to move on to more advanced levels. 


Ms. Smith explained that the coding activities create a level of cooperation among students as they problem solve together. They also build their creativity, presentation skills, resilience and persistence.