Technology can still be a hard thing to grasp for some folks. Generally we might understand the use of a computer, but not how it works it's magic.

With computer science and mathematics jobs on the rise by 20% in 2020, it's important that our children and the millennial generation at least gain a basic understanding of technological sciences like coding, security, and mathematics.

Sylvan Learning Centre in Okotoks hold annual Hour of Code events, to help children get interested and teaches them basic computer coding principles.

The Centre uses IPads or laptops with a special version of Minecraft where the students can use coding skills to create their own games.

Andrew Kett, a Sylvan teacher says it's almost like tricking their brains into learning, by having fun.

"We try to get as many kids as we can into the centre, and get their hands on the basics of coding for one full hour." Kett says "We hit some really good numbers this year, and didn't have the lap-top supply, but the code.org people put out a great program that you can do on IPad and with either device learn a lot about the basic coding steps."

9 year old Sylvan student Quinn Yarmoloy says it's really fun, and he like creating his own game.

"I'm doing Minecraft and I'm guiding some calves right now." Quinn says "It's cool because you get to build your games and stuff."

Another Sylvan student was also excited to create his own version of Minecraft.

Tyson Rachar says "I'm making my own game, it's kind of like Minecraft, but it's all a coded game."

Students had to use codes to make characters in their games move, talk, or do actions. Coding the basic element to all computer games, programs, and operating systems.

Instead of telling the kids to put down the IPad, Sylvan was giving them an head start and teaching them how it really works.

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