Since many adults did not begin their formal education until kindergarten, they are often doubtful of the need for structured activities at such an early age.

The sooner kids are comfortable and adept at using the computer the better. Positive early experiences help individuals to reach their fullest potential and encourage children engaging early in the learning process.

Besides there are now some exceptional learning programs for toddlers! Some spatial/sorting/counting concepts are so easy to learn with good educational software.

In early years (ages 2-5), children can use computers to develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The advantage here is that children can see and hear and do all at the same time, which is not always possible or convenient. Also, the activities are likely to be visually appealing.

In ages 5-8, children can enhance their literacy skills. When in numeracy education, being able to drag and drop (in sorting, graphing…) is more educationally appropriate than endless scissor cutting and pasting!

From age 8, children may be ready for more formal skills. The basics of most of an Office suite is attainable. Most children are extremely resourceful and adaptable and will combine the skills taught in wholly unintended ways.

Computer skills are such an integral part of society and of the curriculum nowadays that children must have them! It is up to the educators and parents to ensure that computer use is balanced with ‘real world’ activities and conventional teaching methods: Computer use should supplement the curriculum but should not and cannot replace human interaction.
So get started!

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