The excitement children experience when playing with blocks, paints, and other
toys can be experienced at the computer when devlopmentally appropriate software
is used. Young children can use and manipulate software. The same software
used by children who do not have apparent disabilities is also apropriate for
young children with disabilities.
turning on a computer
selecting their own 'user account'
selecting a program from a variety of
appropriate choices
safely inserting a CD, DVD, or Zip Disk
using input devices to successfully
interact with the computer
Examples of input devices children can use: computer mouse,
keyboard, trackball, microphone, touch screen, or switch.
starting a software program
identifying and navigating through the available
options in a program
using peripherals (printers, cameras, scanners)
ending a program
storing the digital media
Children can learn to operate a computer safely and effectively when appropriate
software is easily available. If clear, positive rules for software use are
taught and followed, only occasional guidance from an adult or another child
is needed.
Requirements for Successful Child/Computer Interaction
a computer capable of running the software without lockups, slowdowns,
or device conflicts .
a computer environment which is child-friendly, ergonomically designed,
and easy to access.
Examples of environmental factors in the computer environment:
use of child-sized desks and chairs; visual storage of software which allows
children to pick and choose programs independently; child-sized input devices;
easy access to peripheral devices.
developmentally appropriate software:
a child who has been taught how to use the computer appropriately and independently,
and is able to:
Interactive computer storybook software programs that allow children to create,
illustrate, and animate their own stories. Creating interactive storybooks
can provide positive outcomes related to emergent literacy.
Research has shown that children's comprehension and motivation to read increased
through the use of CD-ROM storybooks (Matthew, 1997; Doty, Popplewell & Byers,
2001). With appropriate software, children may gain benefits beyond reading
and writing. Children may experience music, movement, and culture.
Position Statements on Technology and Literacy
Both the International Reading Association and the National Association for
the Education of Young Children have determined that technology, including
software can be used in developmentally appropriate ways to benefit children.
These position statements discuss the benefits of technology, technology integration,
literacy and technology environments, access to technology, and the role of
the teacher in evaluating software and other technologies.
Software is an umbrella term that includes computer programs. The coding in
the program directs the computer. Software comes in different formats:
5.25 floppy disks
stores limited amount of data
requires an older computer with a 5 1/4 inch drive
are easily damaged
3.5 disks housed in hard plastic cases
usually can only store 1-2 MB data
requires older computer with 3 1/2 inch drive
are somewhat easily damaged
Zip Disks
can Store Up to 250 MB data
are made of a hard plastic case and are a more sturdy form of media
require a Zip drive on the computer, but external Zip drives are
inexpensive and can be moved between computers
CD-ROMs - Compact Disc-Read Only Memory - most can hold over 600 MB data
DVDs - capable of holding gigabytes of information; commonly used for games
and movies
Downloadable programs available from the Internet.
It is recommended that a 'hard copy' (copy on actual digital
media such as a CD or DVD) always be purchased instead of just downloading
a program. In the event of computer problems, a program could be lost beyond
restoration. A hard copy allows the program to be reloaded.
Three main considerations to be made before purchasing software are compatibility
with the computer, user-friendly features, and company support.
Compatibility
Make sure the software requirements match your computer system. Usually requirements
are printed on the software box or provided in the catalog description. Trying
to run software on the 'minimum' requirements often results in software slow-downs,
freeze-ups, or computer crashes.
When evaluating software for purchase/use, consider the following:
RAM (Random Access Memory), which affects the speed of the program
ROM (Read Only Memory) and/or hard drive space
Enough space for storing the program on the hard drive instead of
running the program from disc is recommended. Running programs off
of CDs or DVDs often causes significant slowing down of the program,
causing frustration)
Operating system requirements (Windows version, Mac OS version)
Monitor size and resolution
Color and graphics capabilities
CD-ROM or DVD requirements
Processor Speed
Requirements for peripheral devices (printers, scanners, cameras)
Program Features
Questions to consider when selecting software for young children's use:
Is on-screen reading required to operate the program?
Does pressing an incorrect key or clicking in the wrong place cause the
program to freeze or crash
Can children correct errors in writing or drawing software with an "undo" feature?
Are children able to bypass the introduction screen?
Can children exit at any time in the program?
Are printing options available for writing and graphics programs?
Is the save option available for writing and graphics programs?
Company Support
Reputable companies have product support available online or by phone. Many
software bundles include problem-solving checklists. Before calling the help
line, which may require a charge for assistance, try using the documentation
that came with the program. If that doesn't help, try visiting the company's
website. Software programs often have known problems and reputable companies
will put patchs (fixes), upgrades, and documentation right on their website.
Signs of well-supported software.
The program has documentation and troubleshooting tips.
The company provides a customer service help line.
Warranty, guarantee, and return policy are clearly stated.
The company has a website.
ITLC Online -- -- http://www.wiu.edu/itlc/
Copyright 2005. All Rights Reserved. Center for Best Practices in Early Childhood Education at Western Illinois University.