During Computer Science Education Week, the Hour of Code challenges students of all ages (and languages) to learn and participate in the basics of coding, engineering, computer science, and gaming.

Social media sites are flooded with images of kids using technology, learning programming, and creating code. Twitter hashtags in English (#hourofcode), Spanish (#horadelcodigo), and other languages provide information about coding, as do the following websites:

• Hora del Código
• Futuro Educativo
• La Hora Del Código
• Yo Puedo Programar
• Latinas & Information Technology

Colorín Colorado, a bilingual site for families and educators of English language learners, highlights the importance of getting young kids involved in computer programming and offers a number of helpful resources.

As these sites make clear, CSEdWeek targets a global audience. Moreover, the Hour of Code is about collaboration. Approaches like pair programming and “Ask 3 then me” are well-suited to English Language Learners (ELL). Working in a supportive language learning environment, ELLs and other students can learn from each other and solve problems together. This process enhances listening and speaking skills.

According to Cleopatra Jones, an ESL kindergarten teacher, the exposure to coding also “fuels a love of math and science.” And in reply to a #kidscancode Twitter chat question about the proudest moment from the #HourOfCode, Kelly Kayser Carey, a 4^th grade ELL teacher from Nashville,  tweeted the following:

Hurray for the Hour of Code … in as many languages as you can shout it!