My four-year-old asked Siri to make a FaceTime call, and has since sent a message using the speech-to-text function. A game changer for my little one who cannot read or write yet.

While I’m proud of her understanding of practical technology, particularly the digital devices she’s surrounded by most of the time, like iPhones and iPads, my attention has now shifted to the potential cognitive challenges and tech-dependence that the next generation may encounter.

Enter traditional technology, the home computer and the keyboard.

The tone of my column suggests that the usage and understanding of technology is a fundamental necessity, not just an optional skill for all children today.

There isn’t a fixed time frame to introduce a child to a computer. However, you may want to introduce your kid to a computer when:

  1. They’re old enough to understand what a computer is
  2. They’re able to access and interact with devices based on memory and pattern recognition
  3. They seem well integrated with digital devices as part of their natural and primary environment
  4. They can be well supervised and guided by an adult

However, the final decision is for every parent to take, and there are different approaches to nurturing computer literacy.

In this column, I want to shed light on the decision to introduce my 4-year-old to more traditional tech. Having a traditional desktop computer in a dedicated space in the home matters. Why?

On its own it depicts structure and positions itself as a separate aspect of lifestyle. A larger fixed screen offers better visibility and promotes better posture unlike tablets and iPads which can be switched on anywhere.

Vision and posture, two physiological aspects tied to increased screen usage in the 21st century, which are central to my mission as a parent and as a yoga instructor.

A desktop PC allows you to teach the basics of hardware and software fostering a different thought process about computers and the way it’s woven into our daily life.

Unlike an iPad, a PC and laptop limits access to everything. Additionally, good keyboard skills matter, despite its decline. It assists in processing and retaining information in ways similar to writing by hand.

I suggest using Jungle Junior, an interactive typing course for preschoolers that focuses on letter recognition, finger dexterity, and associating fingers with letters on the keyboard.

And then there’s mouse control. Overall, the idea is to nurture digital literacy, create familiarity with computers and build confidence with tech in a tech focused world.

Based on what I’ve done so far, here are a few pointers for safely introducing kids to technology and computers:

Start Early, But Keep It Balanced

Children will adapt to technology as they grow. The sooner they’re exposed, the better for them. If you start introducing more technology around age four, it is a great idea if you have the time and patience to lay a foundation for future tech-savvy skills. It’s an ideal age to introduce technology for educational purposes with problem solving games and puzzles that nurture creativity and critical thinking.

Set Clear Boundaries Early On 

Without limits, kids can slip into bad habits or worse, screen addiction. Clearly communicate the purpose and role of technology and curate the content, applications and games that kids are using. Having a dedicated workspace and dedicated time for computer usage helps with setting boundaries.

Model Positive Technology Usage For Kids

It’s simple: children do as they see, not as they’re told. It’s important to follow your own rules and boundaries to mold positive habits for your kids.

Make Learning Fun

When kids realise that the claw machine at the arcade is a computer too, then learning becomes a lot more fun. Unless you’re grooming a computer wizard, allow a computer to be seen as a fun daily tool for information, education, and entertainment but with purpose.

Identify Your Why

Establish the importance of computer/digital literacy in your home and general life. As a parent, is your career tech driven? Are computers and other digital devices a prominent feature in the home environment? Do you want your child to be computer literate as a basic skill or something more? When you have the answers to these questions, you make more informed and intentional choices for your future tech-savvy kid.