by Carolyn Tytler

Created on: August 17, 2009

The computer has great potential to either help or harm a child. It's up to parents to establish and enforce guidelines so the child will derive maximum benefits while avoiding possible damages from this wonder of modern technology.

PRESCHOOLERS

This is the age for active play and discovering the marvels of the world around him. Ten minutes playing a simple game with Mom or Dad, at the child's request, should be the limit of the child's time at the computer.

PRIMARY GRADES

The child will be introduced to basic computer skills at school. He'll be typing some stories and maybe playing educational games during free time.

At home, a choice between television and the computer is a wise option. These activities could be pursued after any homework assignments, and after some active playtime with friends, outside in the fresh air, weather permitting. An hour a day would be a reasonable time allotment.

Of the two choices, the computer may be the wiser option. There are usually some reading or mathematical skills required: instructions for games, or counting points for scores. Games requiring precision can aid in the development of fine motor skills.

This is the age when e-mail could be introduced. Letters composed and typed to grandparents and other relatives have real educational value and also would be welcomed by the recipients.

JUNIOR GRADES

School work is becoming more demanding, and individual or group projects are popular forms of consolidating the knowledge acquired during lessons. The child will learn how to use Google and other search engines to refresh and enhance information learned in class.

He'll be learning keyboarding skills and how to use spell check and other features on the computer. Since the machine will be required to complete some of the homework, this time should not be rationed as long as a watchful parental eye ensures that it's being used for the purpose intended.

The optional hour for TV or computer games may be continued, as long as other priorities take precedence: sports, social activities, reading, and chores.

SENIOR GRADES

Most young people are quite proficient in computer skills by this time. They know how to do research and are able to type quite quickly and accurately on the keyboard.

Homework using the computer will become a normal occurrence. Having the machine in a central area in the home where family members often pass by should preclude any problems.

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