The Mouse

Tip #1:  Show child how to hold the mouse using thumb and pinkie to grasp.  It does not matter which hand, or both, child wants to use.  I use both- I'm left handed and prefer to use my left, but usually the mouse is on the right side.  At school I put the mouse and mouse pad in the center.  I push the keyboard back, tuck it away, or prop it up out of reach.  Ask your child which hand he/she would like to use/ "feels better".

Tip #2:  Maybe stick a very small bumpy or fuzzy sticker on the left click button to help them click only 1 button!!  Explain only one button works & use the pointer/index finger to click it.

Tip #3:  Show them the mouse cursor on the screen with your finger.  Explain this is "You".  Put your hand over their hand on mouse and roll it up & down, left & right.  Point to the screen cursor to show movement. "This is how you move the mouse tp point to things you want."

The Games

Tip#1:  Play it with them in the beginning, but be sure YOU are NOT "in charged" of the mouse.  Ask your child which game he/she wants to play and explain what to click on.  "Bring your mouse up (up,up,up) to the ABC blocks and click on it.

Tip#2:  Help explain the site/game directions or options, so your child can understand what to do.  When they exhaust a game/activity or get bored, ask him/her if they want to go back.  You click on the link, usually at the bottom, which sends child back to Home Page; or click on the Internet BACK button at top in toolbar until returning to area child wants.  Also child can click on X at top right corner and see our PreK website to choose a new game.

Tip #3: Many games show a glittering icon to hint where to click next.  Explain this to child and let him/her find it and click.