What is Programming?
Discover how computers understand and follow instructions.
What is Programming? is a free Python For Kids lesson on CoddyKit — lesson 1 of 4. You can read the complete lesson below for free — then practise it hands-on in the browser with a built-in code editor and a 24/7 AI tutor. It is part of the Python For Kids learning path, one of 4 lessons in the course, and your progress syncs across the web and the CoddyKit app.
1
What is Programming?
Programming is the process of giving a computer a set of instructions to perform specific tasks. It’s like writing a recipe for a computer to follow.
2
Computers and Instructions
Think of a computer as a very fast calculator that needs exact instructions. When we program, we tell the computer exactly what to do, step by step.
3
Everyday Programming
We see programming everywhere. From your favorite video games to the apps on your phone. Even robots and smart devices at home are guided by computer programs.
4
Why Learn Programming?
- Creativity: Bring your ideas to life with code.
- Problem-Solving: Learn to break down big problems into smaller steps.
- Fun: Build games, animations, and interactive stories.
5
Programming Languages
There are many programming languages like Python, Java, or C++. They all let you talk to computers, but Python is great for beginners because it’s simple and powerful.
6
Example Code in Python
Below is a simple Python code snippet that prints messages to the screen. Please click to green Play Button in order to run your first Python Application.
print("Hello! My name is Python.")
print("I can do calculations, handle text, and much more!")7
Check Your Understanding
Now let’s answer a quick question about programming!
8
Another Quick Practice
Choose all correct answers that describe why people learn programming:
10
Drag and Drop Challenge
Reorder the steps of creating a simple program.
Frequently asked questions
Is the “What is Programming?” lesson free?
Yes — the full text of “What is Programming?” is free to read here on the web, and the Python For Kids course includes 4 lessons in total. To practise it interactively (a built-in code editor and a 24/7 AI tutor) and unlock the rest of the Python For Kids course, upgrade to CoddyKit PRO.
What will I learn in “What is Programming?”?
Discover how computers understand and follow instructions. You practise Python For Kids with hands-on code you run directly in the browser, and a 24/7 AI tutor answers your questions as you work through the lesson.
Do I need any experience to start Python For Kids?
No prior experience is required. Python For Kids on CoddyKit is structured for beginners through advanced learners; this is — lesson 1 of 4, so you can start here or from the beginning and move at your own pace.
How long does the “What is Programming?” lesson take?
Most CoddyKit lessons take about 5–10 minutes. Each one is bite-sized and interactive, so you make steady progress and pick up exactly where you left off across the web and the app.
Can I write and run code in this Python For Kids lesson?
Yes. Every Python For Kids lesson includes a built-in code editor, so you write and run real code right in your browser and get instant AI feedback — no local setup required.
All lessons in this course
- What is Programming?
- Why Learn Python?
- Tools and Environment Setup
- Your First Python Code