Kids these days are way smarter than we give them credit for, but a Malaysian boy in Singapore takes it to another level. Lim, who started using the computer at the age of two, is now fluent in six programming languages. He recently authored a painting application for the Apple iPhone. The app, called 'Doodle Kids,' was written for his two younger sisters, but the application caught fire and has been downloaded well over 4,000 times in a two-week period.
With 'Doodle Kids,' users can sketch on the iPhone screen with their fingers and then shake it to start over, just like in the old days with an Etch-A-Sketch.
Lim has now written over 20 applications. At this pace, he could have a job with Apple by the age of ten--unless Microsoft snags him up first.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Child Prodigies
- The rise of children with exceptional skills in programming presents an opportunity for companies to develop unique products and services.
- Early Technology Literacy
- Children exposed to technology at a young age demonstrates an opportunity for technology companies to create targeted digital literacy programs and devices.
- Youth Entrepreneurship
- The increased prevalence of young programmers highlights the potential for entrepreneurship opportunities amongst children.
Where This Applies
- Consumer Electronics
- The rise of programming savvy children indicates potential for innovative children-targeted products and services within the consumer electronics industry.
- Education Technology
- The trend of early technology literacy presents an opportunity for education technology startups to produce tailored programs.
- Software Development
- The increase of young programmers highlights the need for forward-thinking programming language and technology development firms.
