Thepersonal computer and the Internet have opened the door to education for a great many of people worldwide. With computers becoming such a large part of life and the education system, many have began to wonder about the benefits and possible dangers of exposing young children to the computer.

Theories/Speculation

Children who around the age of 3 and 4 are ready to be exposed to the computer. According to kidsource.com, kids who are 3 and 4 are at a developmental stage in which a computer fits in nicely. Computers provide these children with an outlet for experimentation.

Kindergarten and beyond

Teachers who have access to a computer center in their kindergarten or first-grade class will be able to reach their learning objective much more readily than a teacher who does not. There are tons of educational programs geared toward kids this age that can improve the education process.

Benefits

According to kidsource.com, research has shown that 3- to 4-year-olds who have access to a computer in the classroom make greater developmental gains than 3- to 4-year-olds who do not. Children in kindergarten and primary school who are exposed to appropriate programs make greater gains in creativity, mathematical thinking and critical thinking.

Expert insight

Computers have been shown to enhance a child's self-concept and communication skills.

Warning

According to kidsource.com, research shows that children who are under the age of 3 will not benefit from computer use. These children learn with their hands, ears and eyes, and computer use will impede this learning.

Source:

kidsource.com