Is Traditional Coding Dead?

If you’ve been hearing whispers that “learning to code is dead” because of new AI tools, you’re not alone. With “vibe coding” seemingly taking over it’s easy to wonder if teaching kids to code is still worth it. Spoiler alert: it absolutely is! Let’s dive into why coding remains a key skill for your kids, even in a world where “no-code” applications are being built, and clear up any worries you might have.

What’s This “Vibe Coding” Thing?

First, let’s talk about vibe coding, since it’s a term popping up a lot lately.

• Simple definition: Vibe coding is when someone uses AI tools to create apps, websites, or programs by describing what they want in plain words, without writing any code themselves. Think of it like telling an AI, “Make me a game where a cat jumps over obstacles,” and it spits out the code for you.

• Why it matters: It’s super cool because it lets people build stuff without needing to know every coding detail. But here’s the catch, you still need to understand how coding works to make the most of these tools.

To learn more about vibe coding check out the article below.

The rise of vibe coding has some folks thinking, “why bother learning to code?” That’s the big question we’re tackling today.

Tales of Coding’s Demise are Greatly Exaggerated…

Turns out, coding is far from dead! It’s true that AI tools are changing things (understatement alert), but they’re not replacing the need for coding know-how. Here’s why parents like you should still encourage your kids to learn coding:

• It’s about understanding, not just writing code: Coding isn’t just typing lines of computer language. It’s about knowing how tech works—like the logic behind apps or websites. Even with vibe coding, you need to understand concepts like “what’s a loop?” or “how do files connect?” and “what the heck is GitHub?’”

• AI code isn’t perfect: AI can write code, but it’s often messy or misses the mark on things like security and efficiency. People who get coding can spot these issues and make better, safer programs. Things are changing fast, but for now it still takes a trained eye to “fix” agent generated code in most cases.

• Future jobs still need coders: Sure, AI handles the boring stuff, but companies will always need people who understand coding to guide those tools and create new ideas. For instance, unless you understand coding languages, you don’t know what language to tell AI to use for a particular application.

Coding is evolving, not disappearing. Teaching your kids to code now is like giving them a map for a world where tech is everywhere. Like almost everything else, however, the landscape is getting more competitive. Companies may only need 1 or 2 very talented coders instead of an entire team.

Want More Reasons to Encourage Your Kids to Code?

While writing every line of code by hand is certainly less important these days, understanding the big ideas of coding comes with many benefits beyond future employment opportunities.

• Problem-solving: Coding teaches kids to break big problems into small, doable steps. That’s a skill they’ll use everywhere, from school projects to planning a party.

• Logic and structure: Coding is like giving clear instructions to a super literal friend (the computer!). Kids learn to think step-by-step, which helps with everything from math to writing stories.

• Creativity: Coding lets kids build their own games, animations, or apps. It’s a way to turn their wild ideas into something real.

• Teamwork: Many coding projects involve working together, sharing ideas, and fixing bugs as a group. That’s a life skill for any job.

By focusing on these big ideas, even if only while experimenting with vibe-coding, your kids get skills that AI can’t replace. They’ll be ready to use Artificial Intelligence tools smarter and stand out in a techy future.

Start from Scratch

If you’re wondering how to get your kids into coding without overwhelming them (or you!), let me introduce you to Scratch. It’s a free tool perfect for beginners, and here’s why parents love it:

• What it is: Scratch is an online platform created by MIT where kids create games, stories, and animations by snapping together colorful blocks, like digital LEGOs. No typing code required!

• How it works: Each block is a coding command, like “move” or “play sound.” Kids drag and drop them to build programs, learning coding logic without getting stuck on tricky syntax.

• Why it’s great for kids:

  • It’s fun! Kids can make a dancing cat or a racing game in minutes.

  • It’s visual, so it’s easy for young learners (ages 8 and up, but even younger with help).

  • It teaches real coding ideas, like loops and conditions, that carry over to “grown-up” coding later (yes, that includes vibe coding).

• How you can help: You don’t need to be a tech whiz. Sit with your kid, try a Scratch tutorial together, and cheer them on as they create. Check it out at scratch.mit.edu.

• Bonus: Scratch has a huge community where kids can share projects and get inspired by others, boosting their confidence and creativity.

Wrapping It Up

So, are traditional coding skills obsolete? Not even close! AI and vibe coding are exciting, but they make understanding coding more important, not less. By teaching your kids the big ideas of coding you’re setting them up to be problem-solvers, creators, and confident thinkers in a world full of tech. Don’t let the “coding is dead” talk scare you. It’s just evolving, and your kids can evolve with it.