[jonnathanson]

Another random thought, though probably for slightly older kids: getting into programming through game modding. Starcraft 2 editor, WC3 editor, XML editing/modding, eventually Python editing, etc.

The bait is the chance to tweak and modify your games to make them more fun and personal for you. Could be a fun and pain-free segue into programming proper.

[ryanteo]

Haha, that's how I got one of my first introductions to programming too, through the Starcraft map editor. It's kind of fun learning through a game.

Many years later, for a group assignment on entrepreneurship, we submitted a custom map in Warcraft III that simulated competitive strategies among startups. We basically played Warcraft III in class while our lecturer was smiling approvingly. One of the most fun lessons in university..