Coding bootcamps have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way for people to quickly learn new technical skills and transition into a career in technology. But are they worth the investment of time and money? The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on a number of factors. And, when it comes to kids, you have even more considerations to take into account.
Are Coding Bootcamps Worth It?
Coding bootcamps are an excellent way to rapidly boost your child’s coding skills, but they need to be the right camp. Look for a reputable coding bootcamp that has a proven track record and great reviews. It should also include exactly what is included in the course. Additionally, it must be age appropriate. A coding bootcamp for teens who are looking to start working is very different from one designed for small children.
What to Consider When Choosing a Coding Bootcamp for Your Child
First and foremost, it is important to research and carefully select a reputable bootcamp. There are many options out there, some better than others and many are not designed for kids.
Look for bootcamps that have a proven track record of success, positive reviews from past students, and transparent information about their curriculum and job placement rates. They should also be as age appropriate as possible. A middle schooler may not have the same goals or attention span as an adult who is learning the same concepts. Breaks are important and plenty of time to work on projects.
Once you have found a bootcamp that meets your criteria, it is important to consider your child’s learning style and goals. Bootcamps are intensive and fast-paced, often requiring 40-60 hours of work per week for teen and adult options.
If you are willing to commit the time and effort, bootcamps can provide a structured and efficient way to learn new skills. However, the best ones for younger people will have fewer hours, while still remaining intense. Be careful when making the choice, as you don’t want your kids to end up burned out.
How Much Do Coding Bootcamps Cost?
Another important factor to consider is the cost of a bootcamp. While they are often less expensive and more time-efficient than traditional degree programs, they can still be a significant financial investment. It is important to carefully consider whether the potential career benefits and job opportunities outweigh the cost.
On average, bootcamp tuition runs around $13,500 USD, but some of them are over $20,000 USD. These are mostly prices based on adult bootcamps, which are meant to help you land a job immediately after you graduate. For kids, the lessons tend to be less intense and also cheaper.
Types of Coding Bootcamps
What options are available to your child? While this will depend a lot on just how old your child is and what type of skills they’re interested in, there are three main types of camps.
Full-Time: These camps are usually designed for adults and require roughly 60-80 hours a week. They are super intense and last for several months. Generally, this type of camp would be used by a teen who is graduating early or a homeschooled student who can dedicate that amount of time to their coding.
Part-Time: For anyone in school, a less intensive choice is better. Part-time coding bootcamps only require 20-30 hours of coding and lessons per week, so it’s far more doable than full-time.
Online: Perhaps the most flexible, online coding bootcamps let kids work from the comfort of their own desk at home. These usually run around 10-15 hours a week, and may have more flexibility in when you work. This is great for children who are too young to deal with the strain of the bigger camps. It’s also helpful for anyone who spends a lot of time in school and afterschool activities, as it’s more flexible.
How Long Are Coding Bootcamps for Kids?
The length of the course varies drastically and is based on a number of factors. For example, if you are just learning the basics of coding, it will usually be a longer course. Focused intensely on one particular skill? That could be just a couple of weeks.
When to Avoid Bootcamps
However, it is important to note that bootcamps are not for everyone. If your child prefers a slower pace of learning or need more time to absorb and process new information, there are better options. Many kids prefer to learn on their own first, through a simple online program which is self-paced.
Khan Academy and Scratch are two good places to start if your child isn’t ready for a full on bootcamp. Once they have the basics down and are more comfortable with coding and old enough to handle more intensity, you can look into a coding bootcamp for them.
Learning Coding Doesn’t Have to Be Intense
In conclusion, coding bootcamps can be a worthwhile investment for those looking to quickly learn new technical skills and transition into a career in technology. However, it is important to carefully research and select a reputable bootcamp, consider your own learning style and goals, weigh the cost against potential career benefits, and have realistic expectations about job prospects after completing the program.