They may not be able to walk or talk yet, but local infants and toddlers now can get a leg up on computer training thanks to a kiddy computer program at the Fort Frances Public Library.
The library acquired a MIND computer two weeks ago thanks to the Ontario Early Years Challenge Fund.
“It is an opportunity for parents who don’t have a computer to give their children the same start that those who do have a computer have,” head librarian Margaret Sedgwick said Monday morning.
Staff pre-load six games a week on the computer, which is stored in the Children’s Department. The games are geared towards children up to age six—and a parent must be present to use the equipment.
Sedgwick said the computer is aimed at ensuring all children are on a level playing field when they head to school.
“There are many three-year-olds who can work a mouse better than the average 40-year-olds,” she said.
The program won’t just help tiny tikes take to technology. “People who don’t have computers at home [have a chance] to learn along with their child,” Sedgwick enthused.
The library received the $1,800 to fund the program from the Ontario Early Years Challenge Fund, which has also supported its new French and Ojibway story times, Mother Goose program, family story time, and “books for breakfast” initiatives.
Sedgwick said the grant has been a blessing for this community.
“This is a great opportunity. It has opened up so many new doors for us,” she remarked.
