I am 68 years old.I started learning basics of computer(right click left click etc) from my grand son in 2008;my grandson was 8 yrs old and in 2nd standard.They teach computer to children now a days that early.I started programming with Java.Did some reasonably good work.Then switched over to Visual C++.Did a lot of original work like generating xml xsl files from program.I still do it to raise statements for my small business of manufacturing additives to paints. I have studied and worked in Batfiles,html,python,xml and xsl(my most favourite subject)-now VB.Net,little bit of C# and PowerShell. I always take it as a challenge to try the impossible.My Iconic idol is Thomas Alva Edison who tried more than 10000 experiments to find the light bulb.He also found the simple diode which developed in to such a complex field that all electronics-including the computer we are using to communicate are a result of that experiment.My advice to youngsters is learn as much as possible.Visual Studio,exprs etc are good for professional fast work.No doubt about it.But do in leisure attempt these tough exercises which help you learn the intricacies with which even Visual Studio is developed.