Computers and Your Young Student at Home
Children today have a wide world of education literally at their fingertips with a computer. They're now a fixture in schools and valuable addition to every homeConsider technology
When my daughter became turned off to books because of her trouble with learning to read, we invested in a few computer reading programs. These allowed her to play games while learning and because she had no history of failure with computers as she had had with books, she stopped resisting learning to read.
Albert Ullum, Cooperstown, New York
Let Kids explore
I was nervous when we first got our computer that my children - all under age eight - would break it. I've learned that this is pretty much impossible. It really pays to let your kids explore the computer to discover the many wonderful things it can do. The computer is also invaluable to help them get stronger in their weak areas. My eight-year-old would be lost without Spell-check
Margaret Sweeney, New York City
Arrange group play
I have quite a bit of educational software for my kids, age seven and five. I've found that they do more with it and seem to enjoy the programs more when they are in group play. Twice a week now I have computer hour. Several neighbourhood moms send their kids over and we have a class. I'm there to help or suggest, but for the most part the kids work on their own. They respond really well to the friendly competition, other kids' suggestions and the team play that being in a group gives them. Afterwards we all have a snack.
Francine Johnson, Eugene, Oregon
Source: "Parents" magazine
Computer Games
Once the domain of teens and adults, computers games are now designed for all ages and stages. Today, many parents know that technology is a key skill for success. How soon should you sit your child in front of the desktop? What should appear on the screen? Understanding your child's abilities will help you make the call.
Babies Not yet.Computer use requires several developmental skills that even the most advanced baby is unlikely to have. Hand-eye coordination, the ability to focus on an activity and even sitting up are all necessary for computer use and most are not yet on the average baby's option menu. So if you see hardware or software that claims to be designed for your six-month-old, be sceptical. To date, the computer is not yet baby-friendly. That said, if you like to have your baby nearby while you work at your computer, that's fine. Just as your baby appreciates sitting with you while you read, talk on the phone or visit with friends, sharing computer time can be similarly companionable
Toddlers
If you like computers and use one in your home, chances are good your toddler will be eager to try it out. At this age, toddlers like to imitate. When you sweep, they want the broom. When you talk on the phone, they want to talk into one, too. When you work at the computer, they will clamor for a turn. There are new ways for toddlers to interact with computers but you need to be ready to adapt both the physical computer workstation and your own personal expectations.
Consider hardware add-ons that can make your computer more toddler-friendly. For example, a large tracking ball may be a better bet than a traditional computer mouse. Some very basic kiddie keyboards are available. They may make a more sensible option than the adult-oriented design and are easy to set up and remove when your little on is done playing. When it comes to games, stay simple and remember, it's a game not a class. Computer games can be fun, even educational, but don't expect the purchase of a computer game to make your child smarter. look for games that rely on visual and audio cues and avoid games that require a great deal of reading or have complicated multistep directions. Even then, be prepared to sit and play at the computer with your toddler. Most need adult help to get through even simple games. If you try to set your toddler up at the computer and walk away, you'll just be running back every few minutes to troubleshoot. Save yourself the hassle and make it a shared activity. Put your toddler on your lap and click together.
Preschoolers
For a child on the verge of kindergarten, the computer is a great window into new stories, songs and games. There is quite a variety of software for children in this age group. Much of it is educational, teaching early reading skills, color recognition and counting. Other games based on movie and television characters are popular with children. Look for a game-maker you trust, read software reviews and quiz other parents. That can help you narrow down your choices. When you first bring the game home, play it yourself to be sure you approve of its content. Also, by pre-playing, you'll be better able to assist your child in learning how to play it.
For the first spin, sit with your child to help him master the rules and requests of this particular game. Once your child has gotten the hang of it, it's okay to let him play independently. Do adjust your computer workstation so that it accommodates your child's smaller frame. Be sure the chair is high enough and the screen adjusted so your child can see the game without craning his or her neck. Don't let your child eat or drink near the keyboard. Limit computer time to 20 minutes or so. Longer sessions can be a strain on little eyes and even produce the hands and limb pains found in adult computer users.
Technology has become a fact of life in all aspects of work and play, so it's no surprise that the advances have found their way to the toy box. The best advice for parents is to judge each toy, tech or traditional, by how well it fits with the individual child's age and stage. Even in the 21st century, parents know best.
Source: "Baby Steps" magazine
