What I’d Do Differently Teaching CSP Python for the First Time

If I could go back and talk to myself before teaching CSP Python for the first time, I wouldn’t start with tools, standards, or pacing guides.

I’d start with reassurance.

Because the hardest part of that first year wasn’t Python. It was the constant feeling that I was either moving too fast, too slow, or somehow doing it “wrong.”

Here’s what I’d do differently if I were starting CSP Python again. If you’re new to this course, I hope this saves you some stress.

1. I’d stop trying to cover everything

Early on, I treated the curriculum like a checklist. If something was listed, I felt pressure to rush through it.

What I learned: depth beats coverage. Students remember fewer things taught well, not many things rushed.

I’d give myself permission to slow down and let students practice, especially in the early units.

2. I’d normalize confusion on Day 1

I used to think I had to make everything feel smooth and exciting immediately. In reality, confusion is part of learning to code.

Now, I say it out loud: “If this feels confusing sometimes, that means you’re doing it right.”

I wish I had said that sooner.

3. I’d teach debugging before perfection

I spent too much time trying to prevent mistakes instead of teaching students how to handle them.

Debugging is not a side skill. It’s the skill.

If I started again, I’d introduce error messages and fixing code earlier and more intentionally.

4. I’d stop comparing my class to others

It’s easy to see polished demos or hear success stories and assume everyone else has it figured out.

The truth is, every CSP classroom looks different. Student backgrounds, schedules, and support vary wildly.

Comparison only adds pressure. Reflection adds clarity.

5. I’d build routines before projects

Early on, I jumped into projects hoping they’d create engagement. Sometimes they did. Sometimes they created chaos.

Now I know: routines come first. Predicting output. Running code. Fixing errors. Asking for help the right way.

Once those routines exist, projects are more successful and a lot more fun.

6. I’d plan for emotional ups and downs

Coding is emotional, especially for beginners. There are days when everything clicks and days when nothing works.

I wish I had planned for that reality instead of being surprised by it.

Building in small wins, reflection moments, and low-stakes checkpoints makes those swings manageable.

7. I’d trust structure more than inspiration

I used to think great teaching came from great moments. Now I know it comes from great structure.

Clear lessons, consistent routines, predictable assessments, and realistic pacing reduce stress for everyone.

8. I’d remind myself: students don’t need perfect

They don’t need a flawless lesson. They don’t need every answer immediately.

They need a teacher who is steady, honest, and willing to learn alongside them.

If you’re teaching CSP Python for the first time

You don’t need to reinvent the course. You don’t need to know everything ahead of time.

You just need a plan that gives you structure and gives students room to grow.