1. Begin with a limited number of programs. One or two are easiest to manage when children are learning how to operate the computer.
2. Allow students to explore during the first three months of the school year. Resist the urge to lead children through programs step by step.
3. When you are ready to use computers for a specific purpose, demonstrate the simplest, most interesting features of the software. Let the children discover others on their own.
4. Identify peer “experts” who can offer assistance. Model how to be helpful and respectful of others' abilities.
5. Although three or more are ideal, one computer in the early childhood classroom is enough for both teacher productivity and child learning. Use a task board or sign-up sheet to reduce competition for time at the computer.
6. Document children's use of programs to ensure that they have opportunities to explore all the software available. Students often choose the same program over and over again, in the same way they choose favorite books. Encourage children who are “stuck” on a program to work with others who are exploring a different software package.
7. The computer should be a choice—not a requirement—during free time and center time.
8. Invite parent volunteers to install and organize programs on the desktop and assist children in typing and printing. Conduct workshops to train parents on how to give appropriate support.

There are other ways to set up a computer learning environment for young children. Share your ideas on integrating technology into the classroom by sending a message to the online discussion forum attached to this article. [Editors' note: The forums were disabled in July 2000. Readers who wish to share their ideas are invited to contact the authors directly, or contribute a message to Online Communities.]

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