How Important are Computers in the Classrooms for Young Children?

Here are some questions you may want to consider to assess the appropriate use of computers for your child.

• Is the computer part of a rich hands-on classroom learning environment and provided as a choice for children?
• Have children been guided with clear instructions on how to use the computers or are they used carelessly and often not working?
• Are computers used as a resource to enhance and connect with the classroom curriculum or are they disconnected from the rest of the classroom experience?
• Is the software age-appropriate, creative, non-violent, free of bias, and not simply cute and cartoon-like with little educational value?

Computers can be beneficial, but not quite as beneficial to a child's learning as books, blocks, microscopes, dolls and make believe, paints, pets, journals, sand and water, trees, grass, running, climbing, jumping, and most important, good conversation.