HOW SOON SHOULD CHILDREN BE EXPOSED TO COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY? Some people might say that the sooner the better but that might not necessarily be completely true. This article presents research findings that indicate that parents or care providers should wait about three years before exposing children to computers.

During the first three years of life children are developing their motor skills, socially, emotionally, cognitively. Even though computers could, help in the development of these skills, it is better for children to be exposed to a more natural environment during the first years of life.

Some simple questions to ask, in order to know if children are ready for computer are: Do images on the screen have meaning? Is the child able to make a connection between what is on screen and the real world? 

Does the child understand who is in charge of the computer or does he just randomly hitting the keys?
Is the child interested in working on her own or is she interested in working along with someone else?
At an early age the answer to these questions would be no.

At around this age the previous questions will be answered with a "yes". At this age is when a care provider can introduce software that includes discovery-based activities that match the way children learn.
Once children are ready to use computers care providers should use software that includes sounds, and visuals that can attract the child's attention. Discussion and sharing as part of the computer use time is of great importance. Asking open-ended questions is another good strategy.
The computer area should have ample space for both the child and for the care provider.

Software that is recommended for children includes those that reflect the real world, mathematical which work with patterns, classification, series, numbers relationships. Those that help with reading and oral skill, such as linking words with pictures, creating stories. Overall, software that can help children improve their thinking abilities. If technology is going to be part of the learning process for young children, it should be part of the daily learning activities.
One of the advantages about computer technology is that it provides many activities as well as immediate assessment and feedback.

Author: Jesús G. Figueroa 2001