Selecting computer software for your child

Many children use computer software before they begin school. However, parents should make sure that they choose age-appropriate software for their child. Here is a guide to getting the right software for your child. Technology has become indispensable in our lives. Its effects have even been noticed on children. It is common to see children playing with their parents mobile phones or slipping a DVD of their favourite cartoon into the DVD player. Nowadays, children even spend considerable time on the computer. This not only familiarises them with the machine but also can be used to enhance their education. In this articleComputers as an educational toolChoosing the right softwareUsing software to boost communication skillsComputers as an educational tool The number of children who use the computer has prompted many companies to explore the market for computer-based educational tools. Computers can be a valuable ally in your childs education. There are plenty of computer games that test your childs mathematical and linguistic skills. This is also a good way to introduce your child to new concepts outside of a classroom environment. Choosing the right software The sheer variety of childrens software available can be very confusing. While selecting a particular software application for your child, there are a number of parameters to consider. Firstly, check the age-appropriateness of the software. All childrens programs and games are clearly labelled with regard to the age group they are suitable for. Avoid buying software that is not suited to your childs age group. Even if your child is smart, the software may introduce him to concepts that he is not yet ready to learn about. In the case of young childrens software, ensure that the software uses pictures or voice commands to tell the child what to do. A pre-schoolers software that makes use of written commands means that the child will have to ask an adult for help understanding them. Pictures or voices are also more likely to engage a child and keep him interested in the program. The software should allow the child to have some control over the program. The child should be able to select his level of difficulty. He should also be allowed to vary the pace of the program. The software should offer variety. Many educational games often vary the backgrounds of each level in the game. Thus, if one level takes place in the desert, the next one may be set in a jungle or underwater. Variety keeps the game from becoming monotonous. Look at how graphics-heavy the software is. Modern software tends to use a lot of graphics in the program. To display these graphics comfortably, your child will need to use a computer with a fast processor speed, high memory, and an advanced graphics card. If your child does not have access to such a computer, he will be unable to use the software to its full potential. Whenever possible, pick up software that encourages your child to use his imagination. For example, you can buy a computer program that allows your child to make his own stories. Alternatively, drawing and painting software can bring out the artist in your child. You can even print out a copy of his creation and hang it in his room. The software should be designed such that your child receives praise whenever he finishes his task or moves on to the next level. All children need praise from time to time. It makes them feel good about themselves and keeps them motivated to use the software. Using software to boost communication skills Many parents are reluctant to purchase software for their children because they do not want them to miss interaction with their peers. However, there are plenty of software applications available for this very purpose. Many games can be played with multiple players. This promotes group interaction and helps a child to learn how to be part of a team. There is also software available that is designed to facilitate parent-child interaction. Childrens software can be a great learning tool as long as it is selected wisely. Before you purchase software, consider if it is appropriate for your childs age and that it suits his interests.

Many children use computer software before they begin school. However, parents should make sure that they choose age-appropriate software for their child. Here is a guide to getting the right software for your child.

Technology has become indispensable in our lives. Its effects have even been noticed on children. It is common to see children playing with their parent's mobile phones or slipping a DVD of their favourite cartoon into the DVD player. Nowadays, children even spend considerable time on the computer. This not only familiarises them with the machine but also can be used to enhance their education.

Computers as an educational tool

The number of children who use the computer has prompted many companies to explore the market for computer-based educational tools. Computers can be a valuable ally in your child's education. There are plenty of computer games that test your child's mathematical and linguistic skills. This is also a good way to introduce your child to new concepts outside of a classroom environment.

Choosing the right software

The sheer variety of children's software available can be very confusing. While selecting a particular software application for your child, there are a number of parameters to consider.

• Firstly, check the age-appropriateness of the software. All children's programs and games are clearly labelled with regard to the age group they are suitable for. Avoid buying software that is not suited to your child's age group. Even if your child is smart, the software may introduce him to concepts that he is not yet ready to learn about.
• In the case of young children's software, ensure that the software uses pictures or voice commands to tell the child what to do. A pre-schooler's software that makes use of written commands means that the child will have to ask an adult for help understanding them. Pictures or voices are also more likely to engage a child and keep him interested in the program.
• The software should allow the child to have some control over the program. The child should be able to select his level of difficulty. He should also be allowed to vary the pace of the program.
• The software should offer variety. Many educational games often vary the backgrounds of each level in the game. Thus, if one level takes place in the desert, the next one may be set in a jungle or underwater. Variety keeps the game from becoming monotonous.
• Look at how graphics-heavy the software is. Modern software tends to use a lot of graphics in the program. To display these graphics comfortably, your child will need to use a computer with a fast processor speed, high memory, and an advanced graphics card. If your child does not have access to such a computer, he will be unable to use the software to its full potential.
• Whenever possible, pick up software that encourages your child to use his imagination. For example, you can buy a computer program that allows your child to make his own stories. Alternatively, drawing and painting software can bring out the artist in your child. You can even print out a copy of his creation and hang it in his room.
• The software should be designed such that your child receives praise whenever he finishes his task or moves on to the next level. All children need praise from time to time. It makes them feel good about themselves and keeps them motivated to use the software.

Using software to boost communication skills

Many parents are reluctant to purchase software for their children because they do not want them to miss interaction with their peers. However, there are plenty of software applications available for this very purpose. Many games can be played with multiple players. This promotes group interaction and helps a child to learn how to be part of a team. There is also software available that is designed to facilitate parent-child interaction. Children's software can be a great learning tool as long as it is selected wisely. Before you purchase software, consider if it is appropriate for your child's age and that it suits his interests.