To use computers, students in grades pre-K-2 need to know
- the basic parts of a computer, including the monitor, keyboard, mouse, and printer.
- how to use the mouse to click (left-button only on a PC), double click, and drag.
- how to open and close a software program.
- how to leave a computer workspace (including the chair, mouse pad, and keyboard) when done working.
- how to ask for help.
Clicking Concerns
For many children, clicking can be the most difficult aspect of computer use. Due to developmental differences, some young children have difficulty using their index fingers independently of other fingers. When they try to left-click on a PC, those children press with all fingers. To help alleviate that problem, a teacher might
- put stickers on the left-click mouse buttons
- show students how to form an "L" with the index finger and thumb, and tuck the rest of the fingers
into a fist.
- provide additional practice by using software that requires a variety of clicking and dragging skills.
Next: What pre-K-2 kids can do with a computer!
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