Ask the Horizons Team: Writing & Typing Computer Programs

Question:

I’m looking for a computer program to help my son learn typing and writing skills. He’s 7 years old and is interested in using the computer, but struggles with typing and getting his thoughts down in writing. Do you have any programs you recommend?

-Donna in Michigan

Answer:

Hi Donna,

While I’m not typically a fan of very many computer programs (I think kids spend too much time in front of screens!), I do have a program I use and recommend for typing. It’s called the Read, Write, & Type! Learning System, and it’s designed to teach phonics, spelling, keyboarding, and word processing. The program is entertaining and includes enough repetition that kids can grasp the skills with practice. It can be very successful for students with autism in the classroom. I’ve used this program with a number of students very successfully, so hopefully your son will benefit as well. Let me know what you think if you decide to us it. The link to the program is here:http://www.readwritetype.com/readwritetype/RWT-learning-system.html

Best Wishes,
Nicole