Computers can't replace the reading and writing activities, but computers can support what these activities teach your child.

Many computer programs (also called software) offer activities that can both grab your child's interest and teach good lessons. Children as young as 3 years old, though they can't read yet, may still have fun using some of the colorful, action-filled programs with enjoyable characters. Computer reading programs let your child -

1. hear stories, read along, and read by herself;
2. play with objects and characters on the screen that teach the alphabet, simple words, rhyming words, and similar things;
3. command the computer with her voice, record herself reading, and play it back so she can hear herself;
4. write simple sentences and make up stories;
5. add pictures and characters to her stories and have them read back;
6. make and print her own books;
7. make slide shows; and
8. gain praise and see improvement in her abilities.

Finding and Using a Computer

If you don't have a computer at home, ask your librarian if you and your child may use one of the library's computers. Your child's school or a nearby community college might also have a computer laboratory you may use. Ask your librarian about good computer programs. Try a few. They can help you learn basic computer steps before working with your child. This experimenting could help you feel more comfortable with computers if you've never used one before. Your librarian may be able to tell you where you can get computer training if you want it.

When sitting at a computer with your child, join in at first. Later, watch as she plays. Always praise and guide her when you need to. Make sure you choose the right programs for your child's age. Often, one program may have activities for many ages. As your child grows, the program gets more challenging. In fact, if you have children of different ages, the same program can allow each to learn and practice different skills.

There are many good children's programs available, but they vary in quality. If you can, try the software before you buy it. Also, you can check at your local library for reviews of children's software. Don't hesitate to ask your librarian or your child's teacher for information and recommendations about good software.

You can also get useful computer programs through the Internet, a hookup of computers around the world. Many programs are available through "Web sites," which are addresses on the World Wide Web, a part of the Internet. Organizations like libraries, colleges, and government offices give people information through their Web sites . Businesses and other private groups also give and sell information over their Web sites. Good children's programs are available this way, but again, the quality of such material varies and you will need to be careful in your choices. For help on how you can use a computer to hook up to the Internet and find what you need, check with your librarian.

Some Useful Computer Resources

Parents Guide to the Internet published by the U.S. Department of Education (call toll free 1-877-4ED-PUBS to request a free copy or order through the World Wide Web at (http://www.ed.gov/pubs/edpubs.html);

The Connected Family: Bridging the Digital Generation Gap by Seymour Papert and Nicholas Negroponte;

The Parents' Pocket Guide to Kids and Computers published by the Family Computer Workshop; and

Young Kids and Computers: A Parent's Survival Guide published by Children's Software Revue.

For more resources, see "Some Other Interesting Web Sites for Parents and Caregivers" , "Computer Programs", and "Young Children and the Internet: Places To Learn and Play".