Kids and Computers

At the East Rock Magnet School in New Haven, Connecticut, laptops are assigned to students from the third grade onwards. This has led not only to an overall improvement in their test scores, but has also motivated them to learn more.

Mobility and Screen-Size Since kids are usually active and would be moving around a lot with their laptops, it is advisable to choose those with smaller screen sizes, as they will be easier to carry under the arms or in backpacks. Also, the less overall size of these laptops would result in minimum bulk and reduced weight, making them more portable. Typically, laptops with screen sizes of up to 11.6 inches would be ideal. For teens, you can consider higher sizes of 13.3, 14, or even 15.6 inches, but these sizes will surely affect the portability aspect. Processor The basic games and educational software that most smaller kids will be using won't require a lot of processing power. Hence, it is advisable not go overboard while choosing the laptop processor. An Intel 3^rd or 4^th generation Core machine or an AMD A8 of the recent two generations should pack more than enough punch. However, do note that you must try to stay clear of the older generation budget chips, such as Intel Celerons and Pentiums, as well as old AMD chips. RAM and Storage RAM ranging from 2 to 4 GB will be enough to ensure that the computer isn't bogged down when multiple application software and utilities are installed and running. Nowadays, 500 GB hard drives are standard in most laptops, which is sufficient storage space for kids. Connectivity As far as connectivity goes, a laptop having the basic array of connection options should be enough for the limited use that children are likely to put them to. Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and a couple of USB ports is all that would be required, and anything more would be plain unnecessary. Battery Backup A good battery backup is desirable for any portable device. However, one shouldn't invest in laptops with mammoth batteries, especially for younger kids. A battery backup of 5 to 8 hours should be more than sufficient even for teenagers who might need to take their PCs to school. Laptop cum Tablets For increased portability, you should consider going in for a laptop which can be converted to a tablet by detaching the screen. This way, you can get two popular devices for your kids in one go. Price You must keep in mind that the laptop you'll be purchasing for your child is going to handled roughly (especially if the child is under 10 years of age). No matter how durable a model might be, in a hands of the little ones, it is guaranteed to take a beating, and will need maintenance or even replacement. As such, spending too much on a child's laptop is not advisable, and instead, one must go in for one that is on the lower end of the price curve. Ideally, one must opt for a laptop in the price range of $200 to $400. Note: For very young kids (5 to 8 years), special educative laptops are available, which have a much lower specification than the ones noted above. Accordingly, they are priced much lower as well.