You're wrong. What most kids learn from maths classes is how to repetitively apply rules about arithmetic manipulation, so that it's more about having a good memory than about thinking creatively.
That's bs. You obviously have no idea what's going on k-12 math classes. (that covers a *lot* of territory)
Programming seems much better placed to teach you how to think for yourself to solve problems.
Only if you can wrap your mind around it. Most people can't, mainly due to laziness and lack of interest. Even most people who call themselves programmers are woefully incompetent and fail at solving basic problems.
Besides, programming is basically 'applied mathematics' in many ways
I agree.
especially when you get past the initial stages.
That takes genuine interest, perseverance and lots of time, something most people lack.
Mathematics is an important subject, but to state computer programming offers little to the kids that learn it conveys a hefty level of ignorance.
Given that programming was dumped on little kids in the 80's and early 90's and didn't yield useful results, I think it's ignorant to think it would a second time around. Programming classes make sense for high school electives, but anything more is just a waste of time. That's why elementary and middle schools don't really bother with it anymore.