Perhaps most important, computers can enrich family life. Forget the idea that computer kids are isolated. Children like to use the computer with adults and other kids, asking questions, making predictions, comparing results. Add a modem and communication reaches well beyond your family room. Although the benefits of computers are genuine, they aren't automatic.
Kids can lose their way, squandering hours on mindless software or violent games.
Just as parents have always helped children make good choices about everything from friends to food, books to TV, now we must make sure they get the best out of computers. You'll know that you're on the right path when the computer is simply a resource you and your kids turn to to make family occasions and activities better. Children will use it not only to finish homework faster, but also to answer the questions that come up at the dinner table. It will be a family project to research your next vacation on-line and then to create a multimedia memory album when you get back. Carolyn Jabs writes frequently about technology.