Through my years of homeschooling I never stressed doing work on the computer. I taught essential computer skills, mouse skills, and computer research skills, yet I never encouraged work on the computer. My oldest is not one for technology which could be a direct result of being raised on non-battery toys, little TV, and the rare use of the computer. My son loved to do educational games on the computer due to the novelty but that quickly faded. My preschooler loves the computer but to her it is still a novelty. Then we come to my 7 year old daughter who enjoys her time on the computer. It is a rare thing to do school on the computer. Years ago, I allowed Fridays to be computer work day but when the kids would rather do offline work I didn’t fight it. I have nothing against the computer. I am on the computer for work and social reasons more than all the people in my house combined. However, getting used to looking for computer games and apps on my iPhone for a child is a strange adjustment.
My 7 year old is dyslexic so reading a book is a difficult task. However, she navigates a computer like nobody’s business. She learns to associate images and words so much easier using computers and apps. Both are a great tool for dyslexics in their education. I am so thankful for the strides in technology to help my daughter. I feel the apps and computer work will enhance the learning games, activities, and curriculum assignments we do offline. She is at the age that she knows reading is a challenge so it is nice to see her enjoy writing and books with the help of technology.
If you have a struggling reader or a child with dyslexia please consider using apps and computer programs and games to help educate the child. It is not a crutch or an easy way out. It is the support the child needs while she learns the necessary skills. Keep in mind that dyslexics are more visual and have weaker memories than non-dyslexics. Use the tools available and soon your child will achieve!