Team children at the computer so they can share ideas and learn from one another. Introduce the very basics of searching. By third grade, children ought to know that the word and will help them connect ideas and limit their search. They should be able to recognize a phrase and search for it using quotation marks. Use search tools created for children, such as Yahooligans and AOL NetFind Kids Only.
Directories are also appropriate search tools.
Remember that especially with younger children, it is important to balance online time with important learning activities that have nothing to do with technology. Joyce Kasman Valenza is the librarian at Springfield High in Erdenheim. Her column appears each week in tech.life. 1996, Philadelphia Newspapers Inc . All rights reserved.