Computer Basics

Many children are intrigued by a computer’s parts and functions. Teaching them how these parts are used helps to satisfy their curiosity and build skills for the future.

Show your child the important components of a computer, such as the monitor, tower, keyboard and mouse.

Explain how to insert a compact disk or CD into the CD-Rom drive located in the tower. Many programs are contained on these CDs which make it easy for children to access learning programs.

The mouse becomes a child’s main tool for selecting information or items on the computer. With your guidance, your child will quickly learn that as they move their hand on the mouse the arrow on the screen mimics their movement. The arrow will change to an hourglass after an item has been selected. Teach your child to be patient while the computer is processing the information.

It is also important to help your child to type, rather than peck with one finger. Children can easily learn the location of the letters on the keyboard through proper hand placement on home row, which is the middle row of letters.

Teaching children early about a computer’s parts and functions will give them the confidence they need while enhancing their learning potential.