Are Typing Skills Essential for Homeschool Students?
I had a typing teacher, Mr. Buser, in high school who required us to learn how to type on manual typewriters. He thought if we could type okay on a manual typewriter, we’d type well on an electric typewriter. It was as old-fashioned as an “electric typewriter” is to a kid these days. We weren’t allowed to look at the typewriter keys.
I’ve gotten jobs based on my skills learned under Mr. Buser.
But is learning the keyboard important these days? Hunt-and-peck kind of works, right?
I consider typing to be an important skill, and here’s why: if we don’t have to think of where the letter is on the keyboard, we can think about the content of what we’re typing.
If we don’t have to think of where the letter is located on the keyboard, we can concentrate on the content of what we’re typing.
Top Free Typing Programs for Homeschooling
NitroType If your child enjoys competitive gaming, NitroType is a fun way to improve typing skills. This program allows students to race against others by typing accurately and quickly. It’s a great way to combine learning with a bit of excitement.
Our children loved this game. We’d race together. Visit NitroType here.
3. Dance Mat Typing by BBC Designed for younger learners, Dance Mat Typing offers a colorful and engaging interface that teaches basic typing skills in four stages. Each stage is filled with fun characters and interactive elements to keep kids motivated.
Learn more about Dance Mat Typing, and see the list of lessons on this page. You’ll direct your child to the lesson they need to take.
Improving typing speed improves efficiency at the computer.
4. Keybr Keybr provides a simple and effective way to improve typing by focusing on individual keystrokes. The program adapts to your child’s skill level, offering customized lessons that target areas for improvement.
I found this program difficult, especially with the letter ‘q!” This is a good program for an older student or an adult who wants to improve where they may be weak in typing. Try out Keybr here.
5. Ratatype Ratatype offers a clean interface and lessons for both beginners and advanced typists. It provides speed tests, certificates upon completion, and multiplayer options, making it a comprehensive tool for homeschooling families.
Ratatype is a good all-around typing program for beginners.
How to Incorporate Typing Practice into Your Homeschool Routine
There will need to be time dedicated to learning the keyboard. Once that is done, your child will want to work on speed with the Dance Mat typing game above. Some of our children are now college-age, and we still race against one another on occasion. Each time improves our typing speed, which increases our efficiency at the computer.
These free typing programs provide a wide range of learning experiences, from fun games to structured lessons. They cater to different age groups and learning styles, ensuring that every homeschooled student can improve their typing skills.
A Resource Idea (to purchase): I found an interesting product for learning typing. Check out this keyboard recommended by typing teachers.
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