Computer Time

[bluetimestwo]

Just wondering how everyone handles computer time with their school-age children! My son has just started kindergarten, and he loves the computer SO much. We are attempting to not allow him to use it during the school week, only because he gets very involved in it and then has a temper tantrum when it is time to stop. We are wondering if it might be better just to allow him limited time on educational sites, and if so, do you have any sites you really like? There is a site he likes called Qwizzy's World, which was developed by a local mom in our area and provides practice with basic skills (and I can tailor the activities to his strengths and weaknesses and what they are working on in school). Got any other sites to recommend or ideas for maximizing the benefits of computer time?

Thanks!

[Crafty Amanda]

That's a good question, one I think many of us struggle with. When my kids were younger, I password protected our computer. Because we have 4 kids and at the time only had one computer, our biggest problem was them arguing over who gets to go on. We ended up making a time chart with scheduled times that each child was allowed on. There was a steadfast rule that if homework wasn't done, they couldn't go on. The computer time started after dinner in our house. They gave them enough time to come home, do their homework, and get their chores done. Now that they are older, we have several more computers and they don't seem to want to be on those as much as the Playstation! That's where I limit the time now LOL

I believe they even make software that actually sets an automatic time limit on your computer so that YOU don't have to be the "bad guy", the computer does it for you. I believe it issues a couple of pop up warning several minutes before shut down time.

Ok I did a search, and I have never used this software, but here's one that i found that sounds perfect for your situation. There's a 14 day free trial too. http://www.softwaretime.com/

As for websites that are kid friendly, Fun Brain is excellent. My kids always loved playing on there and it's educational. You can choose the level of play based on age http://www.funbrain.com/