The best way.... (Score 1)

This is my first post here. To get your son interested in programming is not the question; he already is. The task is to get him to actually program! I feel that the best way is to pick a language (I like C++), get him SIMPLE books (I like the "For Dummies" books myself), and then set him tasks that you applaud when accomplished. The applauding is VERY important! I suggest graphics oriented tasks such as: Make a word move on the screen. Make a ball move up and down. Draw a square with corrected aspect ratio. Make a ball that bounces around the screen. I suggest Text oriented tasks such as: Make a quiz using Data statements. Make a math quiz with random questions. Make a "Mad-Libs" game with user inputs. Make a scrolling "Times Square" sign. Limit his access to libraries of functions for now. Show and encourage him to to create his own library. Remember: Your son may not actually "take" to programming. He may not be as fascinated with the feeling of power we get from controlling a machine as the rest of us are.