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I've seen several mentions of dc having computer time for their breaks at times during the day. I was wondering what type of games, programs or material were being used or recommended for this. The computer is something we haven't utilized much to this point, ds is 7yo and going into 2nd we will be using Bigger and Drawn this fall. Should I look to find something in an area that he needs more practice in? Thank you all.

My daughter likes the jumpstart games which are educational.

We use Starfall, PBS kids, Time4Learning, Jumpstart, computer games we've bought at Scholastic. I also like some of the older SIM games, like SIM City, SIM Farm, and SIM ant. I don't know if they still have some of the older ones to sell. I honestly haven't looked in a while.

The computer can be great, but we shy away from games that don't have an educational purpose unless they are wholesome overall. We like Jumpstart and ReaderRabbit. The I Spy ones are fun too, and there are also invention-themed, etc. ones. We limit the time to 30 minutes Monday through Friday, or every other day. I don't think that these are absolutely necessary, and if it were a choice between buying everything HOD has to offer or computer games, I'd definitely get all of my HOD things first. The computer is a nice option as an extra independent activity, but it in no way fills a need not already filled better by HOD.

In Christ,
Julie

I got Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing Version 15 from the library and my children love it! You can start the lesson at beginner or have them test you to see what your skill level is. I have them work on this for 15 minutes each day and they are making great progress. The software keeps track of your progress and you can even see which keys might need a little more practice than others. I think typing is an essential skill to have these days.
Leah

For computer we use Typing Instructor, Editor in Chief, Building Thinking Skills, Mind Benders, Drill Express, Charlie Church Mouse and various other educational (but fun) cds. We are taking a break this week but my kids still get their computer time. I was shocked to see my oldest playing editor in chief for fun!

We just find online educational sites. This summer my son is doing online typing games as well as some online math games that focus on some areas he isn't as strong in. He also likes to do things like Liberty Kids. He will continue to do some in the fall with Preparing but more to continue to improve his keyboard skills. He has mild Cerebral Palsy that affects his ability to write so typing and keyboarding skills are crucial for him.

Oh, thank you all. You've given me wonderful ideas and avenues to check out. I had forgotten about typing funny considering I think it is important and I can type while my dh who is in IT still hunts and pecks though his speed has improved over the past 15 years partly out of necessity but I think partly out of competition as well. Thanks again.

faroutback