My baby daughter loves to watch the screen as I type this article. But that's about all she'll be doing with computers for the next couple of years.

After talking to dozens of parents and educators as part of a project with telecommunications company SBC, we've decided to compromise on the controversial issue of how and when to introduce computers to our children as family home activities.

Here's some family ideas we've learned:

  • Don't push it. If your child gets bored or frustrated using a computer program, take a break. Think of it as you would drawing, building or other fun family activities. Help him discover his own solutions when you can, but don't turn it into homework. Programs that are too challenging may turn him off to learning new things; check the age ratings. It only works if he's having fun.
  • Set limits. If your child loves computers, set limits on how much time she spends with them. As a dad, I love the fact that computers have the same attention-grabbing ability to baby-sit our kids as TV does. But that's why we place limits on how much time they spend glued to either screen. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that an hour a day of TV should be the max for preschoolers. Our family includes computer time in that, too.
  • Shop around. While most computer software titles aimed at preschoolers will entertain your child, not all will educate him. Software aimed at the toddler market is mostly of the point-and-see-what-happens variety. My 3-year-old son enjoys this, but there's not much more to it than watching a "Blue's Clues" or "Dora the Explorer" cartoon.

Software aimed at age 3 and older is where kids can get more interactive with reading, math and problem-solving concepts. But don't assume that the program with the most academic drills is the smartest.

Like the best toys, the best educational software is open-ended and allows kids to create and explore on their own. That's why preschools often prefer art software to teach kids how to use computers.

There are lots of ways to save money. Your local library probably has free computer time and software programs that you can use on site or try out at home.

To find the right computer program for your child, ask educators what they like or don't like, and check reviews at online sources such as Amazon.com and ChildrensSoftware.com. Kids grow up fast and used software can be purchased cheap.

  • Keep the computer where you can see it. Many families put computers in their child's bedroom or some other private place. It may be convenient, but it also turns computing into an anti-social activity. Set it up in a room that people walk through, where you can ask questions about what they're learning. This will also be a lot safer when children are ready to jump on the Internet.
  • Don't worry about it. Will your child fall behind in technology? Not in preschool. The only computer skills children need just now in early elementary are as simple as how to point and click a mouse; there's no rush. It's far more important that they learn how to interact with people than with machines. Computers can be helpful, but there's nothing your child is going to learn on the computer that he or she couldn't learn with books, blocks and crayons. You're a far better teacher for your child than any silicon chip will ever be.



Bryan Taylor is the president of EduGuide and the father of two young children.