How do you choose a laptop for your kids?
Buying a kids laptop computer is an important step for all parents for the early learning and development of their child. Here are some models which are the best price, protect your children from unwanted content and are easy enough to use for their age.
Toy Kids Laptop for 3 to 7 years old
Vtech manufacture many basic and cheap notebook computers for kids. Most of the models are not considered a real computer running Windows or internet connectivity, but are self contained and pre-programmed to provide hours of fun on the road, while teaching them to type on the qwerty keyboard and use the mouse correctly. This helps them develop good hand and eye coordination. Decide if you need to have a backlit screen, or whether you are happy with just an LED screen, which will not cause any screen burn or strain to their eyes from an LCD which may be too bright for them. For younger kids under 6, some of the functions on lines such as the cyber spy or Vtech nitro notebook may be difficult for them to understand. It is worth noting if they come provided with a thorough instruction manual. While they may not be a real laptop, they do appear to look like one, and are more water resistant to spills and knocks. Remember that your child may be completely engaged in the learning experience, and will most likely not be attentive to any objects around them in case of an accident.
Remember that these are also suitable for 2 to 3 year olds, as they come with many flashing lights which will keep them happy as they tap away on the keyboard. Generally the programs stored on these models are basic spelling, memory, identifying objects and animals, and provide music and sounds for them to enjoy. For the girls, there are themed selections such as the barbie laptop which is an ideal choice for them to share it with their friends. Most of these available for this age group are priced under $50. Toys R Us and Costco also stock many types of computer toys for kids.
Real Kids Laptop for over 7 years old
There are many manufacturers for children in this age group. The most popular brand is the Disney Netpal laptop, which is sold exclusively by Disney and is made by Asus, a trusted brand who build very reliable pcs for adults similar to Gateway, Dell and Acer. These are lightweight and rugged so they can be knocked around without damage to the electronics. The keyboard is spill-proof and the camera is in-built so they can communicate with their friends online. Set up is easy, with the ability for parents to control which applications can be used on certain times of the day. Themes can also be loaded from the Disney collection, to add extra fun to their experience. These are priced from $350.
The peewee pc is a popular brand for children, as it comes with Microsoft Windows and Office installed. You can configure it with either XP or Windows 7. The software that is pre-bundled with it can be pre-configured to early elementary, kindergarten or upper elementary packages to suit their level of learning. The memory can be configured from 512MB up to 2GB or RAM. The laptop itself is made to withstand drop proof, water resistant keyboard and also hard plastic so it will not crack on impact. The case is made with a strong vinyl and comes with a handle so they can easily carry it around the home. The most important feature with these is the security software which is pre-installed to protect and filter them from unwanted online and offline content, so it is built with latest technology. These retail from about $500.