Coding for Kids
Meet our newest Winter Code Jam Winner, 14-year-old Mariam from Ontario, Canada! She likes to create digital art and play chess and the piano. And her Winter Code Jam project won an Honorable Mention. Awesome! Mariam recently spoke with us about her experience coding with Tynker.
What do you like to do outside of school?
After school I like to volunteer in my community, helping younger kids with math and reading. As a local Climate Club member, I enjoy learning about climate change and how to take action against the climate crisis through art and coding.
That’s impressive. Do you have an idea of what you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be a network engineer.
Cool! What’s your favorite subject in school?
My favorite subject in school is Math because math is interesting. It’s all around us from patterns we see in nature to solving problems in our daily life.
That’s interesting. How did you get introduced to Tynker?
I got introduced to Tynker through a coding workshop during a summer camp. I have been coding since I was in Grade 5.
How did you learn how to use Tynker?
When I first started to use Tynker, I learned how to use Space Quest to solve coding puzzles and jump through obstacles during the workshop.
What are your favorite Tynker courses or tutorials?
My favorite Tynker courses are Python and HTML & CSS, and my favorite Tynker tutorial is Physics Cannon.
Have your coding skills improved since you started using Tynker?
My coding skills have improved a lot since I started using Tynker.
Here’s a gif from Mariam’s Winter Code Jam project that won an Honorable Mention:
How did you feel when you found out your project had been featured?
I felt happy that my code could make a difference.
What is your favorite project you’ve made so far?
My favorite project that I’ve made is the brick breaker game that I created using colorful blocks.
How do you get inspiration for your projects?
I mostly get inspiration for my projects from my daily experiences.
Why do you like to code?
I like to code because coding is engaging, fun, and I can share my coding projects with my friends.
What’s your favorite way to use code?
My favorite way to use code is by experimenting with it and test-running it.
Do you have a favorite code block?
My favorite code blocks are conditional blocks, if, then.
What do you do with a project when you’re done with it?
When I finish a project, I test it first. I debug it if there are some bugs. After that, I will show my project to my friends for feedback. I make the necessary changes, then I’ll publish it.
What are you planning to make next?
I’m planning to look for inspiration around me and create a project that makes a difference in my community.
That’s fantastic. What’s the best thing about Tynker?
The best thing about Tynker is that there are amazing resources for both block coding and text coding.
Do you think learning to code has prepared you for the future?
Technology is everywhere these days and has become an important part of our lives. I think learning to code has prepared me for the future by various digital skills I learned through coding and familiarizing myself with essential technology tools like Vector drawing.
Do you think other kids should try coding?
I think other kids should learn to code because it helps kids to develop problem solving skills and to improve their creativity.
What advice would you give to kids starting with Tynker?
The advice that I would give to someone starting on Tynker is not to give up easily when you encounter challenges. Coding is fun and rewarding.
Bonus Question: What’s a fun fact about you?
My coding skills enabled me to create and publish a mobile application about a sustainable solution for climate change.
That’s awesome!
Parent Questions
Mariam’s mother, Aziguli, spoke with us about her daughter learning to code with Tynker:
I feel happy about my kid learning to code. I am proud of her and feel excited when I see the coding projects she is making.
What benefits do you think coding has for her?
I think there are many benefits coding has for my child to boost various skills such as project planning, designing, logical thinking, and problem-solving. Besides, it helps her learn to be patient, precise, responsible, and self-confident.
Do you feel that she’s better prepared for the future?
I feel that my child is better prepared for the future. Coding itself is one of the necessary skills for future jobs.
How do you support her coding endeavors?
I support my child in her coding endeavors by providing supportive learning environments, resources, and encouraging her to create more projects.
What do you think of Tynker?
What I like most about Tynker is its kid-friendly and engaging environment. The Tynker coding platform is perfect for kids to sharpen their coding skills with its quality content.
Thank you. Those are all the questions I have for you. You both did a great job. We want to thank Mariam and her mother for taking the time to speak with us about coding with Tynker.
We can’t wait to see what she creates next – HAPPY CODING!
