Using Word Processing Software in the Early Childhood Classroom

As an early childhood educator, I am most likely to integrate Word Processing software into my classroom as an effective way of presenting material. Beyond worksheets, I can use word processing software to print up large words to label items around my classroom that the children can see from their seats whether they be at their tables or on the circle time carpet. Even very young children will have fun copying written words onto the computer via Word Processing software. This can be done to provide the written story to correspond to their original artwork that I have scanned onto the computer prior to the typing, copying activity. Advantages of using this type of software in my classroom are monumental when one considers how important it is to include young children in the technology sensation. This provides the students with upfront experience with the computer and they get the opportunity to see their work displayed in a professional, grown-up way. Disadvantages are that these types of activities can sometimes be very time-consuming with young children that are still exploring the keyboard and all of its magic. Young students need extra one-on-one instruct to understand the importance of NOT pressing certain buttons and how to use certain other functions of the magical keyboard. Word Processing software allows me to incorporate several of the NETS for Students in my classroom. For instance, this is but a medium for the children to see their creativity and innovation come to life. Technology Operations and Concepts are included in a NET that is important to present to children as early as possible. Technology is going to be a part of their lives so it is best to give them a head start in this realm by allowing them to explore and use software such as this.