
Low cost computers for kids
Today’s smarter life demands basic computer literacy from every one of us; even from pre-school kids! With information technology interfering in each sphere of our life, it has been becoming a challenge for the people who do not have the required computing skills. Given the immense development of smarter technology everywhere, schools have stared inducting courseware related to computer starting from the primary level.
Computers, video games always fascinate kids. Since visuals attracts them most; it is easier to teach them with the help of a computer; and they learn faster!
There are a number of computers games that develop various aspects of a kid like memory, concentration, interest and observation power etc. For example, the Big Brain academy helps forgetful kids on how to remember things; Dora’s cooking club enables a kid to learn mathematical and scientific skills; Backyardigans helps kids to learn about team work and togetherness. Scribblenauts Remix helps in vocabulary building with its built-in features of iOS. ItzaZoo is a learn-to-read game including aspects like drawings, strategy building and problem solving. The fitness games like Nickelodeon Fit, Gold’s Gym Cardio Workout, Wii Fit Plus, Wii Fit U help the kids to remain physically fit. These games are designed to cater to the various needs of a kid which combines educational and entertaining content so that they can find it interesting and learn easily.
Ideal courseware
In the beginning, kids need to understand the various physical parts of a computer and their functionalities. Gradually, they can move on to learn the various programmes; about the internet and how it operates; how to search online information and how to be safe while using internet. And these basic knowledge can be acquired in home as well.
Kids find the paint very attractive; and we can initiate the learning process with this. Parents can also use the ‘easy learning software’ which helps the kids to understand Chemistry, English and Maths. Normally, the kids prefer to use computer and internet for gaming, drawing, painting, information gathering and other educational purposes.
There are some programming languages which are suitable for the beginners. They include – python which is a simple computer language to start with a modern day kids; the Raspberry Pi which is a affordable little device where kids can learn coding ; Mine-craft is a funny and creative video game a kid can play; Scratch is another visual programming language a kid can be taught initially in the primary level. However, depending on the age, the course materials can be customized.
At Kindergarten stage, kids need to learn how to power on and power off the computer safely. The basic computer courses are suitable for children up to 5th grade which teaches them to operate the computer and open and close any particular folder.
At grown up stage, (between 5th to 9th grades) they need to learn how to operate various programs. In this stage, children are also introduced to internet and how to play multifaceted games. Then comes the technical courses and they are made for the children above 8th grade. At this stage, a child mainly learns the programming and graphics.
Tips that may help you to familiarize your kid with computing
- Encourage your kid to explore and play with the computer on his/ her own
- Be a co-participant with your young star and help him/her to understand better by asking questions
- Guide your kid to establish his own pace of learning; making him/her more engaged. It does not matter if your kid is a slow leaner; the more important point is how much she/ he has learnt to use it
- Allow your kid to use it for a limited time. Do not allow your kid to spend the whole day the PC which might have an adverse effect on him/her
Buying the right machine
While buying a machine for your kid, you need to identify his/ her priority. If your kid will use it in home, the desktop is preferable; but if portability is the chief concern, then you should opt for a laptop.
Kids are new users and not matured enough to handle a PC with care; hence, instead of buying a brand new PC, you can choose an affordable refurbished one. There is not any technological or performance related differences exist between a brand new and a refurbished computer which come at a low price with a limited period warranty and service contract.
There are companies which provide refurbished affordable computers and laptops. Renew IT is one such company focused on making high quality computers and laptops affordable and accessible to all. Not only the kids, there a
re schools, NGOs and many other social organisations which need computers in bulk and also at a lower cost. ReNew IT caters to the needs of all these.