Computer Literacy for Toddlers

Computers in preschool? Keyboarding and mouse skills for toddlers? Trading ABC's for QWERTY's? Computers are here to stay and while the keyboard may eventually give way to some new technology, the computer will become even more vital to tomorrow's workforce. Many parents hope to give their children an edge by encouraging computer literacy at an early age.

Software designed for children under age five is one of the fastest growing segments of the educational software industry. In fact, a new segment has emerged called lapware. Lapware is software designed for adults to use with their children aged six months old to two years old. The idea being that the child sits on the parent's lap while exploring the program.

The debate about television programming for young children has extended to include computer programming. Does viewing a Baby Einstein video really teach a child about classical music or fine art? Does playing a Reader Rabbit game help children learn computer skills or their ABC's? While the experts debate the merits and pitfalls of the various media marketed towards preschoolers, parents are snatching them up.

A child who is comfortable with the computer, using the mouse and finding letters on the keyboard, will have a distinct advantage over those who have never been allowed to touch the family's computer or whose family does not own a computer. Computers have become fairly standard in the classroom and much of a student's homework is expected to be completed on a computer. Students who have limited access or poor computer skills often fall behind.

Today's jobs are increasingly technical, from the auto shop to the board room, computer skills are a must. A child who lacks computer literacy lacks options in the workforce. Today's preschooler will grow up in a world that revolves around computers.

How does lapware help? It allows for the child to have a good experience with the computer and become familiar with it. In addition, these programs have an educational element to them, teaching shapes, colors, counting and other age appropriate material.

Just as a parent should monitor and limit a child's TV viewing time, a parent should do the same with computer time. As with all good things, moderation is key. At this age, the idea behind teaching computer literacy is to introduce the computer to the child, not expect 60wpm at the keyboard. Make it a fun experience and the rest will follow.