Looking at all those keys on the computer keyboard can feel overwhelming. However, like learning to play a musical instrument, in time the physical expression of typing becomes second nature.
Let's begin with a free typing test provided by Ten Thumbs Typing Tutor. Ten Thumbs supports QWERTY and Dvorak keyboard layouts.
Free Online Typing Games for Kids
These are typically for the standard QWERTY keyboard layout.
- LearningGamesforKids.com has a page full of colorful interactive typing skill builders and adventure games for kids.
- BBC Dance Mat Typing invites kids to make their way through 12 stages of typing fun.
- Interdidactica.info boasts 120 typing games to help kids build speed and accuracy.
- Funschool's Type Me helps kids of all ages learn letters and learn to type.
- Funtotype.com has typing games.
TypingWeb.com supports Dvorak and QWERTY and allows parents to set up free teacher accounts to monitor multiple children.
Typing for iPod and iPhone: Here's a typing skill your kids may run into that you never encountered. TypingWeb is a free typing tutor for iPhone and iPod Touch. Other free typing apps include TypingMania! Lite for Game Center, iTextFast Free, and TapTyping. Your child may also enjoy these other Apps for Kids.
Classic QWERTY and Dvorak Ergonomic Keyboard Layout
I highly recommend using the Dvorak ergonomic keyboard layout for anyone who spends a significant time typing. The pros are in speed and comfort. The cons are in the times when you use a computer that isn't already set up for Dvorak, although it's easy to set up a toggle between the two layouts.
Free Online Typing Tutor Games for Dvorak
- Ten Thumbs Typing Tutor, free trial. Learn touch typing with the Typing Viking.
- DV Zine Typing Tutor. 15 Dvorak lessons.
- Power Typing Dvorak Tutor. Online typing tutor and timer.
- ABCD Dvorak Lessons. A basic course in Dvorak.
Switching to Dvorak Keyboard Layout
You don't need a special Dvorak keyboard. Most computers have a setting to switch from QWERTY to Dvorak. You can manually rearrange the keys on your keyboard (video), but I prefer to leave the keys as they are and apply translucent labels so I can see both layouts and toggle between the two. It's like being bilingual at the keyboard.
To change your keyboard settings to Dvorak in Windows, go to Clock, Language, & Region in the Control Panel. Go to Regional and Language Options. Click the button to Change Keyboards. Add Dvorak to the list. Then, of course, the letters on your keyboard will all type something else so you'll need Dvorak labels to stick on them.
Like any physical skill, keyboarding skills develop quickly and naturally through play. Have fun and your speed and typing ability will continually improve.
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Sara McGrath - Sara is a veteran homeschool mom of three, Usborne consultant, and the author of Unschooling: A Lifestyle of Learning.
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