My daughter showed her interest in computer at a very young age - since she was 1 year old (she's now 4 years old). I'm glad that she interested in this technology. And I start to introduce her educational interactive games (alfabeth, numbers, etc). She really enjoys it. As a parents I'm proud of her. Most of the times she amazed me on how fast she can learn and how good her memory is.
But unfortunately her school discourage her. They have computer but my daughter not allowed to play with school computer. Just because they think she's to young and they afraid that she might pushed the wrong button and that will make the computer somehow crashed. Do you think my daughter is really to young to learn computer??? while some grown up sometimes didn't even know how to turn the computer on.
[question posted by apakabar2007]
responses and comments:
As long as the child is supervised when using the computer, I think it's a very good idea to let them learn as soon as possible. My seven year old grandson is very good at using the computer, he started when he was about four. He is only allowed about 2 hours a day and is always supervised especially if he's going on th internet. Children start to use computers at nursery now so it helps them. [nannacroc]
Thank you for your comment. At home, I supervise her. In case she has some questions or found some difficulties and we played together. But at school with 30 children in one class, it is kinda difficult for one teacher to supervise children than wanna learn computer. But I still think it is unfair to discourage her to learn one step ahead from other children. It is not like she´s going to sit in front of the computer the whole day. [apakabar2007]
I have used the first time a PC at 6 years ago. [hiretto]
I learnt computer at age 14 years old (that was almost 20 years ago)in school (once a month) and at that time computer is quite expensive to buy for personal use. So we are quite happy that our school have computer although we have to shared one computer with 4 other classmate. I remembered that we have to change the old floopy disk more than five times just to run one program....hahaha. That was quite a messed. [apakabar2007]
Children can learn very fast everything, above all modern technologies. I think there is nothing bad if a very young baby starts to use the computer. The most important thing is to give limits to babies. Babies can stay at the computer but with some rules. Rules are important, or we run the risk to have babies at a computer for hours. It's stupid to think that a baby can crash a computer pushing wrong buttons. The problem isn't the fact that a computer can be crashed. The problem is that a baby can become a computer adict, and this isn't good. So, let's make our children use the computer, but with rules. [FrancyDafne]
Thank you for your respond. I agree with you. [apakabar2007]
Hello apkapbar..... What employment opportunities will be in demand when she grows up ? Being used to and educated about computers will be to her benefit. It will be children like her that learn at a very young age that will be developing the next generation of computers. Tom [nrnotrare]
Thank you for your respond, I really appreciated very much. Sometimes, I envy my daughter and children nowdays (in positive way, of course) that at early age has the possibilities to learn high tech. I certainly will try all the facilities and opportunities that we have to give my daughter a better future. [apakabar2007]
No I don't think so... Computer technology plays a big role in our daily life today and I think its very essential for our success... Its good if the kids knew computer at the early age but you just have to guide them every time they use it... You don't want your 5 years old go surfing on some porn or gross sites... [yenoh03]
Thank you for your response, I really appreciated !!! [apakabar2007]
maybe If You Don't Trust Your children at a very young age Depends? visit unkut.wordpress,com [565787]
I do trust my daughter only the school didn't. But doesn't matter....I'll continue support things that she likes doing. Thank you for your respond !!! [apakabar2007]
I dont think that it's wrong to introduce new technologies to young children this time, because they will surely enjoy it and they make lots of interactions to it. They can learn lots from computers but see to it that they will not be fond of playing a non sense games. Give also time to go with your child because, yes maybe your daughter can pushed wrong buttons that makes your computer crash.. [cherriemae]
I'm glad that my daughter haven't pushed the wrong button yet...hahah. But you are right, I don't let my daughter sit behind computers for hours and hours. It certainly won't be healthy for her, too. Thank's for your response !!! [apakabar2007]
I believe the school does't understand that you've given your child enough education on that.i will just say that you should not allow that to discourage you keep on doin the job yourself by the time the school will start her formal traning your child will have become a guru. [gbaben]
I have told her teacher about it and she said she will keep in mind what I've said. As you know, the result still the same. But I keep on support my daughter if she wants to learn and use computer, though. Thank you for responding !!! [apakabar2007]
well everything comes with right age ...i would say sooner or later they will get hooked up with computers ..so why not to introduce them later stage and when they are young we should teach them to make and learn to mkae new friends ,learn outdoor activities [palpalsky]
I know what you meant, but when is the right age ??? What is the children showed their interest in early age ?? Aren't you going to support them ??? [apakabar2007]
I am very impressed to read this! I think you are doing a good thing by letting your child learn these things. I have several Grandchildren, 2 of them have an interest in playing the piano, it started when they we're only big enough to sit up, their Mommy would sit on the bench, holding them. These same two(6&9), now have their own little computers, they are not connected to the Internet, but they are learning (toys). The 6yr. old has a "Barbie" computer, (do you have those there?). I could understand the schools thinking, but don't know if I agree. [Heavensent53]
Thank you for your sweet comment !!! Barbie computer ??? That's one of her favorite, too. So cute, isn't it.... and nice to know that your grandchildren also show their interest at young age. [apakabar2007]
If used approiately it is a good thing [raydene]
Yes, Indeed. I agree. I think the school should also think that way instead of come up with excuses. [apakabar2007]
actually, small children are less dangerous to computers than your cats and dogs. however, the internet can be very risky to slightly older children who aren't supervised. i would keep the computer in line of your sight, even when he/she is older and surfing cyberspace. as for pushing the wrong key, it is very hard to 'damage' a computer by pressing the wrong key. especially if you have restore function working properly in windows. in linux, you can set up a machine with out access to the internet. [CraftyCorner]
Well, when my daughter using internet to access a certain children interactive learning programs, I will always stay next to her to help her and explain to her and we do the program together. And up till now, she hasn't done anything that can damaged my computer nor hers. We've learnt her which buttons for which function in general. I'm glad that we have a restore function in my computer. When it crashed it was not because of my daughter, it because of me and my husband....hehehe [apakabar2007]
I don't think it's wrong. In fact they should be taught how to use the computer at young age because we are now in the cyber age. Perhaps, the school administrators don't know the capability of your daughter to handle the computer that of course, if the computer is destroyed, that's very expensive. Children should not play with computers really. But they should be allowed to use and learn. Playing is different and because she is still a child, naturally we presume that she would play with the computer. Children should use the computer with guidance of the older and more responsible people. There are also obscene scenes popping up which should not be shown to children of such tender age. [whacks]
Yep, they think that the children can and will only playing instead of learning especially at very young age. Well, my daughter love to play computer but not only for playing, she's learning a lot from it especially from interactive & educative programs since she's 1 years old. I think if the school even bother to check out the computer store they will find a lot of children program....even for 1 years old children. [apakabar2007]
I think your right in saying that computers can be really helpful and educational though at the age of four i can see the schools concern. I think she should be allowed on the computer at school as long as she is supervised. But really it takes quite a bit to destroy a computer these days. So what if she presses the off button? But i guess it's the schools choice. Make up for it by giving her lots of time on your computer at home. :] [linzmcwilliams]
Thank you for your respond !!! I will still continue to support her computer interest as long as she wants, too. [apakabar2007]
I have 4 grandchildren and they were all allowed on the computer in the house , let her play on it as long as she is supervised ,it is the way of the world now to know all you can about them , you could get her a toy one to play with ( all the keys in the same place) an educational one with games she can learn her ABC's with , i would encourage her all you can xx [weemam]
Exactly !!!! I couldn't agree more. She loves her educational interactive games too that learn her ABC's especially ones from winnie the pooh and dora that has two languages (english and dutch). So, she can swith them and learn english at the same time. Thank you for your respond !!!! [apakabar2007]
I used to set my little sister on my knee and let her watch me use the computer since she was 6 months old. She will be 6 in June of this year and she is in kindergarten and they want to skip her because they say she is above average and is really smart we have let her on the computer since she was about 2 and let her do education programs that would help her learn the things she needed to learn we were lettin g her do kindergarten things at 2 she can do 3rd grade work she is very smart and we are very proud of her. [mtdewgurl74]
Exactly, that's the benefit of learning at such a young age. You'll go a bit futher than average. I'm glad to hear about your little sister and that she used the education programs to help her learn things. In my case, sometimes I have the feeling, that the teacher in my daughter school trying to slow down my daughter with education, instead of encouraging her to learn further. Because she can also do things in school that meant for children older than her age. Maybe that scared her teacher a bit. Thank you for sharing !!! [apakabar2007]
In my oppinon,it is not wrong to introduce computer to children,my son also showed his great interest in computer.His only 5 years old now.But I feel pleased to see he do what he likes to do ,and I can teach him do something will be helpful for him .When he grew up ,he will find that I am great! [cf1016]
Yes, for me also nice to know that my daughter interested in thing that I also know and that we can do it together. And it will be usefull for her in the future, too. [apakabar2007]
I think you have done well in teaching your daughter how to use the computer at such a young age. I think the school may be concerned that even if she does know how by letting her use the computer then other children will want to use it and perhaps they don't know the proper way. When my now grown daughter was in grade 1 they had a typewriter in the classroom and the teacher was amazed at how well my daughter new the keyboard. It was because we had a computer at home that she used regularly so the keypad was second nature to her. There are many advantages to letting a young child learn how to properly use a computer at any age. Increased confidence, better learning and better hand eye coordination just to name a few but whether they are allowed to use the technology outside of the home is not always a factor of their own ability. [ycswid]
Thank you for your support and positive way of thinking. I think it might be one of the explanation why the school won't let her use school computer because they afraid that other children that don't know the proper way to use the computer might mess the computer. Hmmm,....nice positive thinking, makes me not so much blamming the school... Thanks !!! [apakabar2007]
Hi apakabar, apa kabar? that's mean how r u doing, right? I believe that's nothing wrong for us parents to introduce our kids to computer as early as we could. but there's got to be a strict but friendly guidance by parents. that will let kids learn and know what can and what can't do with computer. better do it at home if school discourage kids. I don't know how they could have such that insular thought. computer is just a thing, the most important is that our kids learn good things to increase their ability and knowledge. p.s : salam dari Indonesia [aribaba]
Welcome to mylot mas !!! My daughter still use our computer at home for learning. As long as she still enjoy it and learn from it, I'll keep on supporting her and guidance her. Thank you for respond and salam dari Belanda [apakabar2007]
I am glad to hear that a 4 years old gal has learned hoow to use computer but actually, listen! she is urs daughter. You love her. Either she does something wrong with pc or n't, u'll n't say anything to her bcuz she is urs daughter but school, it is a place where 1000s of children come & all children's mentle level are n't equal. Her teachers may think that if we'll allow her to use computer then other children'll too do so & may b crash pc. Well, i think that there is nothing bad in teaching computer to young children but we must n't allow them to use internet in young age. I am glad to hear that urs daughter can use pc & i liked ur work which u give her on pc. [sweetie88]
Thank you sweetie88. You're right, there maybe 1000's of other children in that school and some of them maybe didn't nor haven't learn it at home....and yes, I know...one children started the others will follow.....so, in a way I can now abit understand what the school concern, it's just that they should give more acceptable reason in a first place. Thank you for your sweet support !!! [apakabar2007]
I had my first experience with computers when I was around 10 years old but since technology has improved since then I don't see the problem as long as she loves doing other things aswell. [saraa87]
Thank you for your support, my daughter does enjoy learning with computers. She's really interesting and exciting with her interactive computer program. And most of the time, she did the task good and it help her alot in school too. I'm proud of her and I'll continue to support her as long as she wants too and of course for positive purpose. [apakabar2007]
my nephew who is at present 3.5 years old, is also very fond of computers, we have used computer to interactive educational games as well as he plays games on them, he too is quite good at learning and has good memory, but sometimes he pushes wrong buttons, but that doesnt means i am saying that we should discourage our children, only thing is we need to be more careful and taught our kids what is not required. [gharinder]
Exactly !!! I'm glad to hear that your nephew is also learning computer at early age. And yes, we just need to be carefull and learn them to push the right buttons instead of blamming them with the wrong buttons... Thank you for your support !!! [apakabar2007]
It almost seems like it's a necessity to get started that early in this day and age. Life has become so computer-centric and it seems like most children are already computer masters (at least those who are destined for high-paying jobs) that you have to get started that early to be able to keep up with the crowd. :) It's not that this is a bad thing, though, computer bring a lot of good into our lives and it looks like you are doing a good job of guarding against the bad. [RedRidingHood]
Thank you for you supportive and kind words !!!! I really appreciated. And I'll certainly trying to learn her positive way about computer and guide her in good possible way. Thank you for your kind words !!!! It certainly make my day !!! [apakabar2007]
i don't think she is, but sometimes technology pushes people away from their loved ones, like they want to play more with computers that spend time with mom and dad, playing or talking, or joking. so i think it's important to balance quality time and play time, and spend time to instill values as well. [mlgb_24]
I do try to balance between playing with computers, outside with friends and families, creativity play (she loves making her own handcrafts), etc....and I'm glad so far we have them in balance and that she didn't glued herself on computer screen nor play one thing only........ Thank you for your nice respond. [apakabar2007]
learning new thing from early childhood is always encouraged.but beware of the several side effects might be occurred from exposing ur daughter to PC:the eyesight problem,the porn site...and the "PC Addictive Syndrome". [josephsch]
Thank GOD, She didn't glue herself to computer screen....I told her no too long because it's not good for her eyes, but I also let herself found out what happened if she stayed to long on computer and after that she's just limited herself and listen to what I said. As far as porn site, I forbid that access...but I also told the reason why.... and she realized when my husband and I told her not to, there's a good reason behind it.... Thank you for your advies !!!! [apakabar2007]
I definately do not feel that it is wrong to introduce kids to the whole world wide web thing because we are in the 21st century now and evenrything runs on computer I show my son everything I do in hopes to brighten him way before he reaches kindergarden because I am his mom and when it comes down to it I am the only person that can honestly tell him what to do [sanyah1988]
Thank you for making me feel better. Indeed...everything runs on computer nowdays and I just want that my daughter someday won't feel left behind when it's time for her that she have to deal with computer outside the house. Thank you for your respond !!! [apakabar2007]
I think it's great to introduce children to computers at whatever age they show an interest. Both of my girls were very young when they started playing educational games. Back then, they didn't have all the nice graphics and fun games that they have now. They were pretty boring, really LOL But they loved it. Then, they moved up to math games, trivia and games like GeoSafari Animals. Now, they are both very proficient in computer use and, being in high school, they are always typing projects and papers. In fact, my 13 year old "plays" with PowerPoint... I don't have the heart to remind her that it's really considered "business software" LOL She makes animation or "comic strips" on PowerPoint that are pretty cool. In any case, for people who are really worried about what buttons the kids will press, you can always look into the multitude of products that are designed to be kid-sized and kid-friendly. There are keyboards that you can exchange for your regular keyboards and same for the mouse. I don't have a recommendation of any one distributor or website over another but here is just one you could see as an example: http://www.childrenssoftwareonline.com/Default.aspx?m=category&catID=219 But, if your daughter is already using the standard equipment comfortably, then good for her!! :) Computers are a fact of life now, whether people are still resistent to them or not... so I don't think it's wrong to introduce them to our children in a supervised way. Have fun! :) [thinkingoutloud]
Wow thinkingouloud !!! 13 years old and know already how to use power point, two thumbs up mom !!!! Even I having a hard time drawing a cow (more like an alien cow) for my daughter and she laughed it when I start drawing. But honestly what you girls doing is awesome !!! Well, my daughter most of the time like using the standard computer. By get use to standard computer I think it will be alot easier for her when she has to deal with computer elsewhere or outside the house. Thanks for sharing your awesome story !!! [apakabar2007]
YES IT IS GOOD FOR THEM,there are many programs you can buy for them to use rather than letting them surf the web. some good site of interest. i would say that it is fine but until they are grown you should know where and what and who they are in touch with online, for there are many predators out there. good luck maybe you have the next bill gates on your hands. [kkerix]
Yes, you'll never know....the next bill gates, I mean...the gates that make lotsa bills....hehehe Thank you for your support, love that !!!! [apakabar2007]
I liked computer from I was child; it was the reason behind I learned it and read a lot of books to reveal its secrets and to be special. Nowadays, children must learn to guide computer so they can go along with the technology revolution. But watch how many hour they can sit behind computer screen not to hurt their eyes. [scapula]
Of course my friend, I'll make sure that she won't glued herself to computer too long. And I'm glad that most of the time she knows her limit.... Thank you for your nice respond !!!! [apakabar2007]
No, It is not bad thing. Actually, it is necessity for every child to know computers. But, when it comes to internet, parent must think twice. Internet is ocean of knowledge and information. It depends upon the person who use it with intelligence and with good purpose. So, I believe parent should make sure that they are introduced to internet and computer as a tool to enhance their knowledge and information. [Susharti]
You got that right my friend. You got that right !!! Guiding and guiding.... Thank you for your respond !!! [apakabar2007]
Well, at that age, she is really too young to learn computers. She may be a fast learner when it comes to computers but still she is very young. She still dont have the complete intellect to understand things surrounding him. By her age, she is still a minor. It is okay if you let your daughter use your computer because its for your personal use. And I am assuming that you are limiting the programs that you're daughter is using or playing. In that case, there is nothing wrong with that because you can control what she is doing and the programs she is playing. However, if the school would really love to develop the minds of their students, it is also necessary to inculcate the importance of computers but not abusing the use thereof. I guess, they'll have to provide computers suitable for that age. [bestre]
Most of the time I sit next to my daughter when we're doing computer. That way, I can explain to her things that she didn't understand and help her with learning. Back in my daughter school...they do have couple of computer in my daughter class but so far...it's just part of class decoration. That's something that I don't really understand...why put it in the class if they are not allow to use them.... [apakabar2007]
i give time for my grand daughter to use the computer for playing games, for some puzzles to solve, for mathematical operations, for drawing and coloring drawings downloadable from the internet. she ven played online games with other players from other countries. she can read some of the basic terminologies in computer operations. she is 5 years old. i let her use the computer for an hour or 2 in a day. [ryanphil01]
Gosh....you are a funky grandma !!! Nice to know that you support your grandchild to get use to technology and wisely use them..... Thank you for sharing !!! [apakabar2007]
for me, it doesnt matter if your child is still young as long as you will guide her always on the right things to do and on what buttons she shouldnt push.. it is really good that you introduced her to computers at a young age because children learn fast and it gives her a chance to explore new things that she will need in the future.. [vikki_p]
Thanks vikki_p !!!! I realized that and it did help her alot with learning...more than most of children in her class. Thank you for your kind words !!! [apakabar2007]
As with so many things in life, I believe that moderation is the key. Computers play an integral role in life, and that only seems to be more and more the case, in future it may well be that the way in which we use computers changes in that we might do away with keyboard and have ultra mobile computers instead, who knows, but the thing is to have some grasp of the technology because it will be the thing that helps in all aspects of life. I think that we have to be very careful with children and protect them to ensure that they are supervised when using a computer and it is moderated to maybe only 30mins every couple of days or something, because there are dangers with PCs as well, I don't just mean the predators on the internet, but I mean the social aspect. Many children are growing up quicker and more independent minded today, and many of them lack inter-personal skills, we see that with the gang cultures and the like, and computers/games consoles/ television all have a role to play in creating that sort of culture. Responsibile parenting, in my mind, would encourage children to learn, as education is a key to life, but that it is moderated, supervised and time limited. Add to that the development of social interaction skills and I think it will help the child to be all rounded, and the computer skills will aid not just in typing or the physical things but as you point out in terms of alphabets and numbers, but we shouldn't forget the traditional means of books and the like. [bananamanuk]
I don't think the traditional way of learning means by book and the like will ever be erased by technology. We have to keep up but also value the traditional...., means balance too. Well said bananamanuk, thank you for sharing your thought !!! [apakabar2007]
I think we need to move our children carefully and cautiously into this computer thing. My son surprised me recently with some sites I didnt expect him to know, now am worried to leave him alone with my computer-actually i have just changed my password so that he can only access it when am around! Dont underestimate the fear that these young people could easily touch the wrong button! [academic2]
yep, they are small but they are smart...hehehe. I remembered a story I've read in hotmail about a guy that left his computer and forgot to log out....later he find out that her/his child accidently won a car in an auction. That was nice, except that he has to pay for the end price....and he immediately explained to the seller that it was an accident bet..... Thank you for sharing your experience !!! [apakabar2007]
for me teaching computer to children at a very young age is perfectly fine.... i think the future is far more sophisticated than what we are now. starting young is an edge. [tatzkie]
your welcome. keep the discussions going! good luck! [tatzkie]
hi apakabar. my son is just 1 and half and loves to be at my pc always. he would move the mouse here and there or even scroll it and burst it laughter on looking at the changes on the screen. i have some videos for ryhms, cartoons etc and unless they are played it becomes sometimes to feed him. i don't any thing wrong if there are being made aware of the computers at that though they actually dont know what th heck is all the machine about. i agree some schools don't allow kids to use the computer on their own. but just press a button or two isn't going to crash the system anyway. [totalearnings]
oh ;( its not a story pal. pure reality :) [totalearnings]
I don't think there's anything wrong with introducing computers or any learning device to children. Kids nowadays are very receptive and easy learners and it's such a waste not to maximize their learning potential. Maybe the school was more concerned of children being addicted to computers like some are to TV, or playing with it is not allowed when they are having classes. Try to clarify was she wasn't allowed to use it that time. Computers, when used to teach children the basics, are actually helpful than harmful. Just be sure to regulate its usage so as not to be misused and abused later on. [steney]
I do agree that children nowadays are very receptive and easy learners because I know my daughter is. Thank you for your sweet repond !!! [apakabar2007]
I think it is OK except computers damage eyesight. In England if you work on computers your employer has to pay for you to have regular eye tests. When using a computer it is good recommended health and safety to look away from the screen every few minutes, you need to bear this in mind and make sure that your child does this. You might want to think about getting some sort of anti glare screen to put over the monitor as well. [beaniegdi]
That's really interesting about your employer has to pay for regular eye tests, I was wondering if we have such agreement here. Well, I also can't glue to computer screen too long as my eyes get watery and I'll begin to see thing double. Thank you for the tip. I'll certainly keep that in mind !!! [apakabar2007]
I don't think it is wrong to introduce the computer to children at a young age. It is important that they learn it! But supervising them is also important. They need to know the proper usage and so on. [mamasan34]
That's true, they still need supervisor when they using computer. And I'm trying always sit next to my daughter when she start using computer to help/ explain things that she doesn't understand. [apakabar2007]
i think its bad to permit a younger age like 1 to 8 yr childs behind of pc............ its very bad for their eye , mind, brain......... [vampire7800]
I do appreciate your opinion as there are always too side of everything. Some said it is very bad, but if I look back how much my daughter learning from it...I would say..go for it, only I have to supervise and guide her. But you are also right if they'don't use it properly. [apakabar2007]
No,its not wrong but I think more importantly the computer programs that they are introduced to requires monitoring. INtroducing a child to the internet at a young age is not desirable as the amount of porn is just too much to control and unecessary exposure is unavoidable [leon1987]
I, myself amazed about how many computer programs that designed for children especially educative ones. I've never noticed about it until I have a children. Yes, I have to becarefull about those adultery site though and so far...I managed to explain to her which one allow and not. [apakabar2007]
there's nothing wrong about that, but you and i know the negetive effects of it that is why ppl say it is not good to introduce children to computer at a young age, how ever, precautions should be taken to ensure that they do not find the negetive parts of using the internet [soki2ng]
There's always two sides of everything. Bad and good. Precautions...precautions !!!That's what we need to make sure they won't start the negative part too early. Thank you for your nice respond !!!! [apakabar2007]
computer is fine, but introuducing the internet is not! internet is not suitable for younger age not unless you have parental controls in your pc that limits them accessing websites thats not good for them. internet consist a lot of adult stuff and they cant understand on their age and needs guidance..but learning how to use the pc is just fine...someday, they will have to use the computer and its best if they know about it on the early age. [daryljane]
Thank you daryljane !!!! You know exactly what I meant !!!! I'm glad that some computer provided that ability to limit some access to website that we don't want children to enter. I have set that limit to our computer and it need password for it. Of course I guide her as well. [apakabar2007]
Every coin has two sides.But i do think a kid should not start touching the computer at such an age.Not only the computer is a radioactivity itself but also your kid is a growing one. Just make sure he or she is not addicted to computer when they touched it older. [lankie]
Thank you for your advice. As you said....every coins has two sides. I'll try to make sure that she won't addicted to computer and make sure that she'll use it properly. Thank you for your nice respond !!! [apakabar2007]
i think it would be better to introduce computer to children at a very young age. i dont think there is a problem with that. the only thing that you have to keep in mind is to set some rules at to strictly implement them(such as hours spent on computers and others), just make sure that you teach them the proper use so as to prevent unexpected damages(keyboards getting wet, what to press and what not to), you just have to make some rules, well,posting the list of rules near the monitor would help but you have to remind the children to read it first before they use the computer and make them understand what you have listed. as for the internet, you can have some parental control such as the ones offered by some programs(norton parental control). i think you can also restrict the websites that they can visit through your computer's internet options. [matrix_04]
Well said matrix !!!! Well said !!!! thumbs up !!! I love the way you answer to my discussion. I fully agree with you and I have nothing else to say except, thank you and well said !!!! [apakabar2007]
Kids under 13 should be allowed to be on computer with certain limits I believe... For example when they are about 3-4 they should be allowed to use only Paint on windows, they love drawing and coloring them and I think it helps them to improve their computer and mouse using skills, when they are about 5-6 they should be allowed to play some games like, Picture Matching (many pictures on the screen but you can see them unless you click and when they are a match after two clicks the pictures remain open) or Pac Man etc. I believe they should never be allowed to play any violence game till they are 13. Also they must always know that homework comes first... It is proven that kids with computer experience have a much more faster thinking brains... [msbayrakdar]
Not only computer programs but nowadays they have special educational programmes for children such as from winnie the pooh, dora, etc that include darwing, coloring, picture matching, etc. With all those learning programs, I can see how my daughter makes a lot of progress with learning and thingking. Nah, I'm not also not fond of violence game especially not for kids. Thank you for your excellent respond !!! [apakabar2007]
I don't really think its wrong to teach your child how to use the computer or even use it as a learning tool. Teach and guide her properly on the benefits of the computer and she'll grow more advanced than the rest of the kids at her age. As for the school policy on not letting a child use a computer, the least you could do is comply with it. If it's not part of your child's curriculum and not included in the tuition fees then leave it. But remember this, a computer can be both beneficial for her mental growth and at the same time may be hazardous to your child's health particularly on her eyes so always be there when she's toying with it. [nvtellan]
That's a good idea of yours. I'll ask the school if the computers they have in the class is part of children curriculum or not. I can't stand starring and glued to computers for hours and hours, therefore I won't let my daughter too to spend time on computer more than what's necessary. [apakabar2007]
My son is three years old. He likes computer and can plays it better than my mom. He has a talent for it. He can learn it very fast. I don't think he can make a computer crash. What I am concerned is it may be harmful for eyes. Especially he is so little. So I try to let him avoid using it for a long time. [youless]
Wow....your son also on a fast lane. Way to go mom !!! Amazing isn't how fast children learn things nowadays. That's true, and agree that we have to make sure they won't stay too long in front of computer screen. [apakabar2007]
I am no child physchologist, but I think children should only be exposed to computers once they have mastered writing, reading (including comprehension) skills. I have seen children who knows so much about computers but can barely comprehend a simple written instruction. For children knowing how to use the computer is good, but there are certain skills they need to master first before they move on to computers. [crazypumpkin]
Of course, they have to have some balance. I think I do understand what you meant. Some people that so comfortable with typing with their fingers tend to get lazy to write. I certainly don't want that to happen to my daughter. We did learn her alot of things too besides computer. So far, I'm glad that my daughter hasn't got any problems with doing both. Anyway, thank your for sharing your opinion, I do appreciated that !!!! [apakabar2007]
M y grand daughter, Nanhi is noe two years and 7 months old, she started showing interest in computers , when she was just two. This is not at all abnormal, nor surprising,children learn , what they see. She sees me , her papa her uncle working on the computer, she sits near us and observes what we do. Now she is able to turn a pc on, open the games and play, she also knows, how to shut the computer off, thanks. [kalyani2007]
Children are just amazing, aren't they. What you said about she's just see and observes at first just so true...because they really learn. Which reminds me when my daughter about your grand daughter age teached her grandpa how to turn on and off a computer..hehehe. Thank you for sharing !!!! [apakabar2007]
From the school's standpoint, I understand that they do not allow anyone under a certain age to use their computers - at 4 years old, reading and writing or motor skills are much more vital than using a computer (even if it's being used for learning games etc). The school also does have reason to believe that a larger group of young kids with access to computers can cause damage - just take a look at any group of kids in a school... They get themselves quite rowdy sometimes. Perhaps it's something that will change in the future, but at this point the school is probably reserving use of the computers to older kids for whom it's more vital. It's not personal against your daughter, it's the school applying the same policy toward all kids - most schools are not able to make exceptions for some kids, unless it's a specialized private school. Just be happy that you can teach her yourself, but don't overestimate the computer's importance. Staring at a computer screen can be bad for anyone's eyes, especially when you are a young child. Besides, she's only 4 - there are countless years ahead for her to learn how to use the computer, and the school making her wait a few years is not going to hinder her in any way. Sounds like a smart kid - congratulations. I can't remember when I did not use a computer, my family had one by the mid-1980s. [CatNPK]
I had a Kaleidoscope program with nice music that put my son to sleep when he was little, by the time he was a year old, we had sesame street programs running. We never had a problem with him breaking or destroying anything. He was supervised and the time on it was short. Maybe 15-20 minutes a day after dinner, before bath and bed time. It never hurt him, that is for sure [Debs_place]
Well... I think of it this way: Children that use the computer at a VERY young age are going to grow up knowing more ABOUT the computer than what is ON it... for example, when your daughter gets older and homework gets more difficult, she will know the best rescources to research a paper or look for an answer to something. As she gets MUCH older, she could go into computer graphic designing and be very successful! People who work with computers get paid ALOT nowadays... dont be suprised if she gets "hooked" to the web... thats actually a good thing. Limmit her time on the computer as she gets older, this will totally give her a taste of both "worlds". I think what you're doing is WONDERFUL. We as young adults, teens, and adults try to get "with it" and want to tear away from the 21st century and go RIGHT to the 22nd. You know? We want to get futuristic. I root for your daughter for the facts she will have excellent hand-eye coordination, faster typing skills, and may even know how the dang computer even works! She'll be a genious more or less. [bloo_equinox]
I have had friends that have let their children play on the computer when they were small. But they supervised them so they would not hit the wrong buttons. I used to have a very good friend who would bring her daughter over and leave her for me to watch (she was three years old when I started watching her). She loved it when I let her play on the computer. I bought games the were geared towards kids and she loved to play them. But I always watched her play so I made sure that she did not do anything she wasn't supposed to. She also made friends with other children that lived near me and she would have them come over and they would play the games together (all with supervision). They make games that are even for kids aged one and two. And games help the kids develop eye hand coordination. [1grnthmb]
I think it's okay if you're watching her. Sure, she might format your C: drive, but heck with a push of a few buttons, we all can and not know it. Computers can also be a wonderful learning tool for children her age. My niece uses a Wiggles program on the computer and knows her shapes, colors and most of the alphabet, even though she omits l-q for some reason. Guess she doesn't like those letters. [Sacrificialclam]
well i dont know computers can damage your eyes and the electricity isnt so good for you its like watching tv but everyone uses computers now and you can get a computer shield to cover your eyes i dont think its so good really [mailboxmoney]
I think as long as someone is keeping an eye on her she should be encouraged. Children learn things at different ages and should be encouraged to learn. If the school won't allow it...then I'd say just let her learn at home until she's old enough to do it at school. LIVE IN PEACE [twoey68]
Hi,apakabar2007! I think this question is hard to say it right or wrong.I began to learn computer at the age of 10,but for recent children,this age may be too late to learn computer. I think children are often curious about new things,so thatt parents and teachers can take this advantage to teach them something. Personally,I think it is okay for your daughter to learn computer now but please don't let her sit in front of computer for long hours. [shinjiao]
Certainly not. My 6 yrs old grand daughter is now an 'expert' as her father says. The younger, Nanhi can open and make drawings and paintings. Thanks. DR.SARAF [bhubaneshwar]
That depends if how young. But as for me as long as the kid starts to listen, it would be an advantage for the kids to be taught how to use advanced technology. Of course, just to the extent of there knowledge capability that you can teach them, they won't understand fully about computers. My 5-year old nephew can use Paint; I in fact make it as my wallpaper sometimes. [MGjhaud]