In today's digital age, being only a consumer of technology is not enough.Understanding its language and principles and leveraging that understanding to evaluate and create information is vital to engaging successfully in school, work, and life. Computational thinking (CT)-a thinking process that develops both logic and creativity and supports breaking down and solving problems-is one essential skill in this digital literacy toolbox.Moreover, CT is relevant for everyone and has application beyond computers and other technology-based devices.

In recent years, CT has gained widespread popularity in the field of education. This includes early childhood education, with researchers and practitioners alike recognizing how important it is to provide children with opportunities to practice CT from an early age. As interest in CT grows, many early childhood educators question what exactly CT is, what it involves, its necessity in early childhood, and how to effectively integrate it into early learning practices.

With a focus on preschool, this book provides research-based information and practical, developmentally appropriate strategies for how teachers can help young children develop their CT skills. Its chapters include

• An introduction to the concept of CT, including its origins and debunking myths that surround the topic

• An in-depth overview of four major CT skills-algorithmic thinking, pattern recognition, decomposition, and abstraction- and the key concepts that underlie them

• What integrating CT in preschool can look like, including a range of ideas for embedding play-based,technology-free (unplugged) learning experiences in familiar routines and learning centers

• How to use stories to introduce coding concepts in a meaningful way

• Calls to action for educators to take to further their own understanding of CT, to partner with families and the community, and to advocate for the importance of CT