CODING 101: WHICH PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE SHOULD YOU LEARN FIRST?

So, you want to learn coding but don’t know where to start? Maybe you’ve heard of Python, Java, or Frontend development, but they all sound like a foreign language (because, well… they are!).

Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

Let’s break it down in a simple way so you (and your parents!) can understand which coding language is best for you.

And who better to guide you than Myroslava Oseredchuk, Program Director of Star for Life Ukraine?

Here’s her advice on where to start and how to make coding fun and exciting!

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🐍 Python – The Friendly All-Rounder

"If you’re new to coding, Python is the perfect place to start. It’s simple, powerful, and used everywhere – from websites to video games to AI!"

Best for: beginners, future game developers, AI enthusiasts

Imagine a programming language that’s as easy to read as a regular sentence. That’s Python! It’s one of the simplest coding languages to learn, making it perfect for beginners.

Why learn Python? ✅It’s used for everything – from websites to video games to AI ✅ Super beginner-friendly, so you won’t get lost in complicated code ✅ Used in big companies like Google and Instagram

Star for Life Ukraine course: Python in Action – Learn coding step by step!

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🎮 Pygame – Make Your Own Video Games!

"If you love video games, why not try making your own? With Pygame, you can code AND design your own 2D games – it’s both fun and creative!"

Best for: gamers, creative minds, and anyone who loves interactive projects

Why learn Pygame? ✅ Perfect for creative thinkers – design + coding in one ✅ A fun way to practice Python while making cool games ✅ You can share your games with friends – or even start a game portfolio!

Star for Life Ukraine course: Pygame Online Course – Build, play, and show off your own games!

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☕ Java – The Powerhouse of Apps & Games

"If Python is like riding a bicycle, Java is like driving a car. It’s a bit more complex, but once you learn it, you can build powerful apps, big systems, and even some of your favorite games!"

Best for: future app developers, game creators, and anyone who wants a challenge

Why learn Java? ✅ It’s the language behind Android apps (yes, the ones on your phone!) ✅ Used in big industries like banking and gaming ✅ Once you learn Java, learning other languages becomes much easier

Star for Life Ukraine course: Java in 4 Steps – From beginner to app developer!

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🌐 Frontend Development – Design the Internet!

"Have you ever looked at a website and thought, ‘I want to design something like that’? Frontend development lets you bring ideas to life!”

Best for: creative minds, future web designers, and those who love visuals

Why learn Frontend? ✅ Uses HTML (structure), CSS (style), and JavaScript (interaction)

✅ Perfect if you love art, design, and user experience

✅ Lets you bring ideas to life and see instant results

Star for Life Ukraine course: Frontend Summer School – Learn to build cool websites from scratch!

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So, which one will you choose?

"The best part? You don’t have to choose just one!" says Myroslava. "Many programmers learn multiple languages – and with Star for Life Ukraine, you can too!"

Ready to start? Join our free courses and create something amazing!

We also invite you to join the Tech Youth Community – a space where you can connect with like-minded peers, explore different areas of coding, ask questions, and get support. It’s a place where people will help you figure out what’s what, guide you through your first steps, and remind you that you’re capable of more than you think.