The Littlest Learners: Presenting Coding Concepts for Preschoolers

Abstract

Coding is a set of complex skills that combines art, language, and logic. With so much learning and creating happening in digital worlds, there is a strong impetus to figure out how, and how early, to teach coding skills to kids.

However, underlying coding skills are concepts that very early learners can comprehend and practice in preparation to learn coding. These concepts are fundamental to much of the thinking and understanding that happens in STEM subjects. Presenting these concepts in library programming improves digital literacy and bolsters the work we do with early literacy skills. While parents and caregivers play a crucial role in using coding concepts in a child’s daily life, librarians can help by embracing the role of media mentors.