[iambateman]

My compelling reason is to discover if they're naturally "bent" toward programming. Neither you nor the child will know until they give it a try for long enough to make something meaningful. Then, if they find it exciting/interesting/motivating...it's time for more.

When I was 13, I found the process of web development incredibly fascinating AND had a teacher (who happened to be 14) who helped me get over the initial cognitive speed bumps. Those ~50 hours changed the course of my life.