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Here's what I'd suggest. Find an old keyboard, one you don't mind taking some abuse. Plug it in to a computer somewhere, put it in a 80x25 text mode where the letters are nice and big. Then log in and let them bash at it randomly to their heart's desire. They'll be able to make lights on the keyboard turn on and off, and see the effect on the screen of what they do on the keyboard. It might only last a few minutes at first, and that's fine. Once they can recognize letters pretty reliably, they could start with some simple CLI things. At almost 3, Oliver can log himself in, but I usually have to point to each letter in his username before he hits it. He knows his letters, but not his QWERTY, yet. He also has some issues with repeating letters. But once he's logged in, it's mostly random mashing at the keyboard for him yet too. I bet it won't be for long though. As to age, each child is different. Follow their cues. If they happily sit on your lap for 15 minutes, seriously studying, or laughing at the hilarious error messages they make, then it's time. Or if they start wanting to use your computer. If they run off after 30 seconds, try again in a month or two. |
I allways stumbled when my son was drumming the keyboard with all apps open, feeling uneasy that he could do some damage.
Please continue with BabyHacks series.