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Reasons To Teach Basic Computer Skills To Children

The future belongs to those who are well-versed with computers as there will be a massive growth in number of jobs related to computer and information technology. So, introducing kids to basic computer skills early on is the first step towards setting them up for a successful life ahead.

Here is a list of some major benefits that children with basic computer skills have over those without such skills:

  • Problem Solving Skills And Critical Thinking: Kids with basic computational skills are better at solving problems. Programming teaches them to make use of their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills so instead of just focusing on a problem, they look for solutions.
  • Helpful In The Classroom: It is believed that kids who learn computer skills perform better than their peers in academics and are more likely to be admitted into prestigious colleges. They are at an edge when it comes to preparing assignments, PowerPoint presentations, excel sheets etc.
  • Boosts Creativity: Technology broadens the horizons of kids and expands possibilities of what they can do. Computer science is empowering and fun for kids. They learn how to make modifications as per their preferences. It is from such things that great innovations and products are made.
  • Kids Get Better At Focusing: In computers science, multi-tasking is not an option. Every problem has to be dealt individually with complete focus. Kids adopt the same discipline which helps them achieve best result in whatever they do.
  • Builds Confidence: An intrinsic part of computer skills is to solve problems individually. When kids solve problems on their own, they grow more confident and are willing to take risks and try new things.
  • Improve Language Skills And Storytelling Abilities: There is no doubt that computer skills help kids perform better in math and science. However, they have also shown to improve the reading and writing skills of students. The analytical and sequencing skills from computer science have a positive impact on language classes too. Kids with some knowledge in computers become better at sequencing and use the same skills in story-telling too.
  • Scope For Better Jobs As Adults: Most of the jobs in 21st century are computer based. So, empowering kids with computer skills builds the foundation for a more secure future.

We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas, offer a wide range of programs for kids from 6 to 18 years of age. To enroll your child at the club, call at (254) 699 – 5808 or visit 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541.

Helping Children Manage Stress

Stress in modern times is not just afflicted to adults but is common among kids too. The life of a kid today is not just limited to studies, school and free play at home. There’s a lot going on in their lives such as study pressure, peer pressure, social media addiction, broken families etc. to name a few. It is very important to engage kids in activities that provide mental, social and physical stimulation and help in keeping stress at bay.

The following are some time-tested strategies for helping kids overcome stress:

  • Avoid Overscheduling: Parents who overschedule a child’s day are contributing to their stress levels and this might not have positive effects as they grow. There are too many expectations from kids these days. We expect them to perform well in academics and extra-curricular activities. Minimal attention is given to the amount of time they get to rest, play and sleep.
  • Sleep: Sleep is non-negotiable. Kids need at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep for their brains and bodies to function normally. Cutting down on the quality and quantity of your child’s sleep could lead to side effects such as headaches, irritability, anxiety and of course stress. Good sleep has been shown to improve grades at school. Creating a conducive environment for your child in his room helps facilitate sleep. Avoid having gadgets like TV’s, video games and cell phones in your child’s room.
  • Enrolling Your Kids In Fun-Centric Activities: Do some research on clubs around your area that organize fun-based activities. Enrolling kids in such clubs will help them unwind from their rigorous routines. Some examples of activities at such after-school fun clubs are drawing, painting, playing musical instruments, story-telling, book reading and much more. There is something to suit every child’s interest.
  • Play: Unsupervised playtime has a very calming effect on kids. Encourage your child to step out every day and play with kids around. It will help your child on many levels. Playing helps children develop on the emotional, social and physical front. It helps the brain release feel-good chemicals which boost the mood and significantly lowers stress levels. You can also use play as an opportunity of bonding with your child one on one. Kids find it very relaxing to spend time with their parents. Games like chess, scrabble, Ludo, table tennis, badminton, etc. are great for parents and children.
  • Set An Example: Kids have a tendency of emulating what their parents feel and do. Be the change you want to see in them. Give them a break. Relax by sparing a few minutes daily to meditate, do yoga or a simply go out for a walk with them.
We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas, offer a wide range of programs for kids from 6 to 18 years of age. To enroll your child at the club, call at (254) 699 –5808 or visit 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541.

Teaching Goal Setting To Kids

A major lesson to teach your children is that setting goals is important in order to become successful individuals in life. A child who learns the art of setting goals early in life is likely to succeed, as they know how to aspire for things, and also work towards achieving them.

Goal-setting is something that comes through practice, until it becomes a habit that comes naturally. Here is a look at some strategies that can be adopted to teach kids the importance of goal-setting.

  • The first thing to remember when trying to teach children how to set goals is that they learn what they see. Be a good example to your child, and involve them in the process of your own goals. When kids watch their parents taking their goals seriously, they are more likely to follow the same with their own goals. This could be something as simple as a goal to drink 6-8 glasses of water a day, to complex goals like reaching a certain target at work.
  • As a parent, it is important to sit down with your children and have a conversation about goal-setting. Start by defining the term goal, and asking them questions about how important it is to set goals. This will help you identify any aspects of their thought process that might need to be worked on.
  • Age-old technique of rewarding children each time they achieve a goal does not fail. This works for kids of all ages, provided the reward is something that is enticing to them. You could do whatever works for your kids, such as stickers, stars, brownie points etc., and offer them a reward when they meet a certain goal.
  • Finally, involve yourself in the process of identifying goals for your children. You can opt for a visual method like a blackboard or notice board. You could also help them create a goal journal with simple entries like what their goal was, what they did to achieve it, and how they felt after they achieved it. This is a great way to keep them motivated, as they can always look back at their journal and draw inspiration to work harder towards future goals.

We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas, offer a wide range of programs for kids from 6 to 18 years of age. To enroll your child at the club, call at (254) 699 – 5808 or visit 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541.