In this week’s blog we will be looking at technology for kids and how you can nurture and encourage your children to get to grips with the digital world from an early age. It’s never too early (or late) to get your child to learn about the basics of computers and technology.
Here are our favorite ways to get your child up to speed:
Teaching Computer Basics
Children are naturally inquisitive, and as such, you won’t have to encourage them too much to get involved in learning computer basics. You don’t have to wait until they are kindergarten age either; from as early as you would like, encourage your child to watch what you do on the computer – teach them about how to move the mouse and click various things, they can learn the basics of typing and turning computers on and off.
More Advanced Computer Skills
Once your children are comfortable and accomplished at using the keyboard and mouse, you can move onto more advanced computer skills. Older children can open their own email account, teach them how to send and receive mails and add attachments; email them from work and ask what they want for dinner etc.
Let them play around with the simple programs on your computer such as Microsoft Word, and Paint – this will help them hone their typing and motor skill development.
Using The Internet
First things first, you have to teach your child about the dangers of the internet and how they can practice internet safety. If they are really young, then make sure they are only able to connect to the internet when in a room where you can keep an eye on them. It’s also important that you ensure that they apply their everyday etiquette into online spaces.
A great idea is getting your child to use Google when doing projects for school; get them to research facts, videos, photos, and anything else that they need. This will teach them how to navigate search engines, as well as helping to learn more about their project.
Online Educational Games
Children learn best when they are having fun, and that’s why using child-friendly online games is an excellent way to teach your child about technology. Have a look for the best online games for children, and ensure that you pick something that isn’t just fun – but also educational – as well as incorporating subjects that your child is actually interested in. Educational games can teach your child actual academic subjects, while also getting them to grips with things like coding.
The world of technology is moving forward at a rapid pace and it’s essential that your children learn how to use it well from an early age in order to keep up. STEM careers are the fastest growing job industry, and we have designed educational toys that specifically help your kids develop the necessary skills going forward. Contact us for more information.
