Macintoshes in my second grade room for the past two years, integrating them into my work with a mainstreamed class of 20 to 25 children. They do require that the teacher model each activity before students are expected to do it. A projection device such as an LCD panel or LTV Portable Pro, makes it easy for an entire class to watch the modeling and to share their completed work. First, look at the objectives within your content areas. Consider all the ways you introduce these to children, and ask yourself if you can help children reach the same goals by paring them up on computers.
Most computers placed in schools come with basic word processing and drawing or painting programs.
In addition, you may also have access to database and spreadsheet programs. Begin with the content area you are most comfortable with. By the second semester of first grade and certainly into second and third, most students will be able to do simple word processing. These helpers need not be above grade level but should have good work habits. The self-esteem of both students will benefit from the learning process.