Before a child can work and play on a computer, she must learn how to treat it properly and how to keep herself safe while doing so. A child's first lessons on a computer should be about safety. She should know what the power cord is and how to use it. Children should also know not to hit a computer but to treat it gently. It is also good to teach her proper posture and hand position to ensure that her skeletal development is not stunted.
Because children will be writing many school papers in the coming years, it is good that they learn proper typing technique early. Kiran's Typing Tutor is a free program that will teach children the basics of touch typing. For a break from structured lessons, children can play a variety of typing games available at Wacona Elementary School's website. These will encourage a faster typing speed in an entertaining environment. (See Resources.)
A familiarity with multimedia programs is good for children because they will need to create visually interesting homework projects in the coming years. Activities to encourage this include using photo editor programs to remove the dents in cars in photographs, switch heads in a family portrait or make an original, colorful family letterhead. Your child can practice with video editors by putting together a video of a recent family vacation or wedding with transitions, title cards and background music.
The Internet is a comprehensive source of information and entertainment, so children should learn to use it appropriately and safely. Show children how to avoid downloading viruses, and tell them not to share personal information with strangers before allowing them to use the Internet on their own. To teach children to use search engines and find quality information quickly, ask questions that they need to look up online, then reward them for doing so in quick time.