11/1/01
Question 135
Dear Preschool
Teacher,
I would like to introduce a computer into my
pre-school classroom (age range 3/4) but am worried that these
children will be too young to reap the benefits of It. Also
please advise me on particular software packages which will help the
children to learn. Please tell me of your experiences of using a
computer in the pre-school classroom.
Computer Classroom
Dear Computer Classroom,
I Am only using a
computer at home. I have a 3 1/2 year old son and currently he just
LOVES to explore the keyboard and
practice typing his name. So I put on the Microsoft Word program,
change the size to real big and let him type and print.
He has a blast! I bought him a child computer, so he can work on his
"email", while I read mine!
Heide
"Ask The Preschool Teacher Staff"
Dear Computer Classroom,
My classroom has
a computer and I think it is very useful. We have many
educational programs. A few are Bailey's Book House, Millie's
Math House, Jumpstart Preschool, Reader Rabbit, and some of the Living
Books stories. Three and four is not too young to benefit from a
computer. They learn how to manipulate the mouse quickly and I
think it benefits their
eye-hand coordination. They have to learn how to move the mouse
slowly and to only click when needed. This is the hardest thing
for beginners. It is also good for developing concentration
skills because it can't be used by any child who doesn't pay attention
to the screen. It is a good investment in my opinion.
Jackie
"Ask The Preschool Teacher Staff"
Dear Computer Classroom,
I
had two new computers donated to my classroom this year and the kids
are really enjoying them. I was worried that they would spend
too much time on them instead of playing with other kids and toys.
That doesn't happen too much, but when it does I tell them to get
off and go play. I have a Disney preschool software program
that the kids really like. I can't remember the name of it.
I also have Reader Rabbit for preschool and that teaches them
counting, shapes, colors and letters. I also am searching for
more software programs. I think the biggest benefit of the
computers is just to expose kids to them that might not have them at
home.
Peg
"Ask The Preschool Teacher Staff"
