How to Teach Microsoft Word to Kids

Microsoft Word is a widely used word processor. If you do any work on the computer at all, chances are you will come across a document created by Microsoft Word. Businesses use Word, many college courses require Word as part of their curriculum, and even some primary schools are beginning to incorporate Word into their classes. Getting your kids accustomed to Microsoft Word at an early age is a good idea that will pay off for them in the future, and probably much sooner than you realize.

Instructions

1. Start simple. Have your child open up Word, go to the "File" menu, and click "New." This will give them a blank document. Show your child the basics of typing on the computer keyboard, such as how to get capitals and how to make spaces. Show them how to use the tab key to indent. You don't want to flood them with too much information. All they need is enough to create a properly typed story. Stick with Word's default page settings for now.

2. Ask your child to write a short story, just about a half-page in length. This is a fun project they will enjoy, with the added benefit that it will help get them accustomed to the basic writing elements you just showed them. Once the story has been completed, show your child how to save the story, and recommend that they save every so often when they are writing so they don't lose any projects they're working on.

3. Introduce your kids to the font-formatting features next. Show them how to change the font type, size and color of their story title. You can download many free themed fonts from the Internet that your kids will love (see Resources). Your kids will have a great time trying various font possibilities, and it will keep them interested in learning.

4. Explain the "Insert" menu and teach your child how to insert pictures into their documents. Allow them to insert different pictures to help illustrate their new story. Like playing with fonts, this will keep your child interested.

5. Use online tips, tricks and projects to keep your child using Microsoft Word on a regular basis (see Resources). The more fun you make, the more your child will want to use Word. It won't be long before they are exploring the features on their own and using Word regularly.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't teach Word 2007 if you have the option, especially if you're teaching kids who have never used a word processor before. Word 2007 is entirely different than previous versions of Word and doesn't resemble any other type of software on the market. Instead of toolbars, Word uses what Microsoft calls "Ribbons," which is a complete departure from the look of most software. Kids will more easily grasp the interface system of an older version of Word, such as 2003, because it more closely resembles an interface structure of other software they may be familiar with.

References

• Computer Kids

Resources

• Microsoft Word Projects for Kids
• Microssoft Word Tips and Tricks
• 1001 Free Fonts