Likes tech, good at math and a memory like a elephant.
I need to try and get him onto programming again. He gets frustrated easily. Tried Python and the, Invalid Syntax, message got to him big time.
I’m a talented blue collar guy and was kinda looking forward to teaching that but even without autism/Asperger’s, that wasn’t a guarantee.
Maybe I’ll try CAD drawing/drafting and maybe some other programming language for the web. Best for at home freelancing. I tried getting him to build his own website a few years ago. He’s had a lot more time online now so maybe I can have him do that. I know html and css pretty well and have used WordPress and other Content Management Systems to build a couple of dozen websites. Most CMSs are done with PHP which has Error messages that give a better clue than Invalid Syntax.
I’ll be sending you a PM about building a website.
>> Likes tech, good at math and a memory like a elephant.
Not surprised to hear that. And that’s good.
Scripting languages like Python may not have enough structure for newbies. It’s a decent language, but without guidance (or a lot of patience) it can be a frustrating experience. And that won’t motivate your son.
Given today’s languages, C# would be a better fit since the coding environment provides better guidance and feedback. It’s also a gentle language unlike the similarly named C/C++. Give it a try by downloading the free community version of Visual Studio. VS provides wizards to setup a variety project types from simple console “Hello World” apps to the more advanced web services stuff.
Teach him to overcome the anxiety when confronted with the bugs, syntax errors, etc. Take a break, try again, try something different — valuable mental exercises that can help in the real world too.