Kids & Technology | Why Us? | The Approach/Skills

Why It's Important To Teach Kids Technology At Such A Young Age?

Most people recognize the importance of teaching young children to read, but never realize that this process starts long before children begin exhibiting reading and writing production skills. Did you know that leading research suggests that the critical period for literacy development is birth through age eight? This means that everything from 'reading' gestures and expressions, to first words and letter recognition, all impact a child?s future literacy. While in the past the emphasis in traditional teaching centered on drill and practice, research has now shown that the skills that are more important to future success are best taught through engaging literacy experiences.

Wondering how a Computer Class can focus on literacy? The answer lies in our unique design. Every Imagine Tomorrow class is based on a "story" of the day. Children are immersed in the story, participating in the adventure first- hand by taking on the role of a main character in the plot. Using proven literacy techniques, students advance through age-appropriate activities that continually improve their early literacy skills while always checking for comprehension. The result is an engaging early literacy experience that involves children in an adventure that is full of fun and learning. We believe that it is so important to be in touch with the latest understanding of how children learn. Our world today, is very different than years past. The need for new ways to approach literacy, are just beginning to be better understood. Communications in the past were verbal (by person or phone) and now, demand more reading and writing. Messages today are sent by email, Internet, fax, and can be read using a multitude of wireless and hand-held devices. Children will need technology and literacy skills, together, to build their better future!

Of course children at this age should be outside playing! Our classes are valuable to young children because it shows them how technology is not just another interactive 'plaything'... The class teaches them how technology is going to be a meaningful tool for their future. It's very important for children at a young age to see that it is not just for playing games, but rather a tool for self-expression, learning and communication. They develop the appropriate perspective at a young age.

We suggest that just as a parent may limit TV time within their family, they may also limit any time using media, including computer time, and use it as an educational, self-expression, or communication tool. It's also a good for parents to be a great role model and show how technology is used for a tool:

1.  Information gathering- phone # or address

2.  Education-research a topic of interest

3.  Communication-email family or send pictures

 Here are a few of the most popular tips we've given parents over time!

  Computer Setup
How to setup your computer at home
Set up the computer in the living room, playroom or some area of living space, rather than secluded in a child's bedroom. At the youngest ages, when a child is first exposed to the computer, leave it on during playtime as just one of many play areas in the room for a child to explore with your supervision. As children get older, you can keep an eye on what they are doing, and share in the excitement of their computer use.

Introducing the Mouse & Keyboard
How to Click
Put a small 1/2 inch sticker on the left mouse button, so children are introduced to which button to click.

How to move the mouse
Since most young children may not know the difference between left and right, focus on teaching the mouse movements of up, down, side to side. Use a basic paint program or mouse-skill activity where the target on the screen is larger than a typical arrow. Continue to repeat aloud, 'up, down, side to side' as you and your child move the mouse in those directions.

How to help your child without a struggle
To stop a potential power struggle, do not put your hand on top of your child's hand on the mouse. Your child may pull away due to the power struggle over the mouse, and this could lead to a frustrating experience. To empower your child, put your child's hand on top of yours. You'll actually be in control of the mouse, and your child will pick up the fine motor skills from your movements.

How to introduce keys on the keyboard
The same 1/2 inch stickers work well to place on the main keys for introduction of the keyboard, such as backspace, spacebar, Shift, and Ctrl.
When learning letters with "Pokey" the keyboard, start with finding the first letter of the child's first name, then add on the other letters.

How to introduce rules of respect
If your child bangs on the keyboard, which is a natural way to quench their curiosity of cause/effect, bring them through these simple phrases so they learn to respect the keyboard.
"We do not bang on the keyboard.
Do you think that makes the keyboard feel good? No! That's right! It can break.
Do you think it would be better if we tap the keys gently, like this? (demonstrate) Yes!
I knew you knew!! Show me how you do it gently. Yeah! Good job!!"

How to support your child's excitement for the equipment
Another great idea is to buy an extra mouse and keyboard for your home. Name your new pet "Squeaky" the mouse, and "Pokey" the keyboard. Point out the similarities between "Squeaky" and a real mouse! They both move, they have a long tail, and instead of squeaking, it talks with a 'click.' Your child can even take "Squeaky" around the house for a walk using the long cord of its tail. Children can practice clicking, dragging, and eventually double-clicking with Squeaky, and typing gently using "Pokey," so they learn how to properly use and respect the technology before using yours!

Internet Safety
How to keep your child safe
All of the email and Internet-related concepts in the Imagine Tomorrow software used during class are completely simulated, so children learn how to use the Internet in a safe environment without actually going online. Young children should never be online without adult supervision, an important safety factor reinforced throughout classes.

Kids & Technology | Why Us? | The Approach/Skills