Young children are fascinated by the buttons on a computer keyboard.
However, everyone is always very keen for them 'to get to grips' with the mouse, discarding the keyboard as an ancient input device soon to be replaced by voice-activated technology. Sorry folks, but it will be around for a bit longer, much to the delight of many children!
There are many ways of introducing the computer keyboard. Much early years software tends to be cause and effect, requiring some sort of input to trigger an event on screen. Generally the mouse buttons are the default input, but with some exploration of the software settings it is often possible to change the input device to the keyboard. If so, then the spacebar is usually the switch; each time they press it, say 'spacebar!' to reinforce its recognition.
Meanwhile in the home corner, children could use old keyboards for role play, typing letters and making lists. If you can spare your nursery computer and printer, load a word processor or basic text editor such as Notepad and urge children to explore the different keys and to see what happens on screen. Print any typing they do.
Children who are starting to recognise individual letters and numbers on the keyboard may well be ready for some more structured keyboarding. It is at this stage that you may wish to consider using a lowercase keyboard.
There are a number on the market (approx 19), but be sure to check the cable connector will attach to the back of your computer. An alternative might be to buy a waterproof overlay or some cheap lowercase stickers.
Encourage children to find their initial and to tap the key once. Ask them to look at the screen and point to the letter - many children keep their finger pressed down on the key to produce lines of the same letter. Next, encourage them to type their initials, then the spacebar once, then the letter again, and so on.
For children who can write their name, encourage them to find the letters to type their name (perhaps copy typing to start with). Press spacebar, name, spacebar etc. Make sure you choose a good junior-style font such as Comic Sans or Sassoon. Make it bold, select a large size and keep the colour black.
In the next ICT article we'll explore subsequent stages in early word processing and software to help youngsters.
INFORMATION
* Lowercase keyboards, stickers and kidgloves from Inclusive Technology (01457 819790) and Granada Learning (0161 827 2927)
