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| Parenting |
 CHILDREN & COMPUTERS - GIVING YOURCHILD AN EARLY START By Debi Stagg In this modern age of technology, how young is too young to introduce children to computers? And is it of any benefit? Can being able to use a computer at the age of three make our kids smarter? Is it just another alternative to T.V.? You could probably ask several doctors and child specialist these questions, and get some terrific answers. But in the end, only you, the parent can decide what is best for your child. As a mom of two boys, ages three and twenty-one months, I decided to introduce computers as soon as I could find an age appropriate program. Being basically computer illiterate myself, I figured whatever 'edge' I could give my kids in this big bad world could only help them. At the age of eighteen months, I bought my son his first program. This in itself was an ordeal. I knew the programs existed, but finding them was a challenge. And even more so, was finding someone who knew anything about them. It didn't take much research, though, there were only two programs to choose from at the time. I brought my new purchase home, and called everyone I knew with excitement. I received a lot of mixed reactions, most of them leaning towards the idea that I was crazy. "Don't you think he's too young?" "There is no way he will understand it." "Why don't you just read him a book?" ...and many more supportive phrases. Never-the-less, I loaded up the program and was truly astonished. The program appealed to toddlers in every manner. It was bright and energetic, with loveable characters. It focused easily on the basics of shapes, colours, music and sound. It also gave light to concepts of sharing and creativity. It was well tuned into the fact that how a child learns is as important as what he learns. And best of all, it was easy for my son to use. All he had to do was press any key, or shake the mouse and action happened. I was ecstatic at how my son responded. He could barley speak, but he followed with ease, and hooted and hollered with pleasure. After just a few sessions, he could point to what game he wanted to play, and even make the computer work for him. The golden idea of action and response was well implanted. Now at the age of three, he can load the disc and play the program without any assistance. He has even taken to teaching his younger brother. The point is, every minute I spend with my kids and the computer amazes me. The point is, my sons blossomed intellectually with the computer. The point is, I don't regret my decision to introduce computers very young; it was not a mistake for my kids. Today there are several programs for toddlers and babies. Choose your toddlers favorite T.V. character, and there probably is a complimentary computer program. The trick is to find the program that appeals to you and your child. You still won't get much help from staff in computer stores, but spending a little time reading the boxes and even checking internet sites like 'www.etoys.com' can reduce most frustrations for your toddler. Look for programs that are easy to use; ones that respond with the tap of any key or a shake of the mouse. Choose something your child can relate to: music, colouring, animals, etc. You don't need to spend much money, most programs are cheap to reasonable with some excellent rebates. All this is great and wonderful should you decide to introduce computers to your baby or toddler. But the most important thing you can do is the same as if you choose to read books, listen to music, watch T.V., or go to the park, you need to be there. I think it is obvious to every parent that children learn better if mom or dad is interested and willing to experience with them. Computers should not be thought of as an excuse for you to talk on the phone. Also, don't spend too much time with it. In fact, the makers of the games recommend only ten minutes per session. Computers are a powerful teaching tool and eventually, every child will need to know how to use one. But it can only be your decision when your child should make that step. Not every child will fall in love with it, take it slow. Make it fun, for both of you. Here is an example of programs to look for: Reader Rabbit's Toddler - Consists of 9 games that promote different skills; colouring, shapes, animal match, letters, counting, and more. Jump Start Toddler - Several games covering skills such as listening, shapes, letters, free exploration, and lots of music and songs. Happy shopping! Debi Stagg |