How important is it for a 10 year old child to have his or her own computer?

Computers are involved in everything, and all they do in school and at home for projects, research and playing.

I grew up without one, but every kid today uses them. Software they will use, is a ’basic’ skill and things that were for girls when I was growing up such as Typing skills are a necessity today. All jobs have typing tests, basic knowledge of Microsoft or MAC software is no longer a ’special’ skill, it’s Expected.

The library often has computers for kids to use, there are also many sources to get inexpensive computers or even someone’s old one for reduced costs.

Software for kids is all over www.amazon.com, and if you purchase one I suggest you do research, double check ratings for kids and I’m sure you’ll be amazed at how much is out there. From Dora the Explorer, to games that teach math, to the Magic School Bus teaching about the body or solar system.

Is it important for a 10 year old, in my opinion, as long as they have consistent access to a computer, and are monitored by you as to where they go on the internet, then yes they should learn all they can.

As far as what a child would use a computer for... Research, games, learning to navigate the internet safely. I suggest sites such as NOGGIN, Nickelodeon, Discovery.

Teach them the fun side of the internet and computer software, and protect them from the dark side.

From my experience with my younger brothers, here is what 10 year old children typically use computers for:

- Playing video games

- Browsing the internet

- Homework (typing up things, researching information, etc)

The latter thing is the only reason it would be worthwhile for the child to have their own computer, but they would use that aspect rarely. They'd probably more often browse the internet or play a game. They are probably fine using the family computer. I also don't think young children should be free to browse the internet on their own, as there's a lot of questionable stuff on the internet.

Once the child gets into high school, however, it might be worth them having their own computer. They will be writing up papers and doing projects on it a lot more often.

We got our daughter a cheap computer a couple of months ago - she's 9.

I work full time from home on my computer, and wasn't willing to risk all of my data to a mistake my kid might make on my computer, so she's been using hand-me down computers for a few years now. The last one that she was given is nearly 8 years old and had trouble keeping up with the software she is supposed to be using for her schoolwork.

Her computer is kept in a public place (and I've refused to configure the wifi so it won't connect to the internet if she takes it up to her room). She doesn't have an e-mail account, a facebook account or anything else like that but she does have a few web sites that she visits both for fun and for the educational value.

Is it super important? No. We could make do without it if we needed to. But I'm happy to not be sharing.

Not important at all, it's not necessary. That is too young to have your own computer & roam the web freely. The child should only use the computer for school work & it should be supervised.

I have a 9 yr old, there is no school work that involves having to use a computer at home. Children don't need computers for school until Junior High or High School.

I think 10 is a bit young to have a personal computer. If the family has a computer I think for school work and play, at that age it is good enough.

A 10 year old would be doing some homework, although not much, playing games, and getting into trouble on the internet. That sounds so cynical but I mean it. At that age, exploring the mature world of facebook, myspace and googling can be informative and over informative.

Regardless of the age, under 18, in my opinion, requires parental supervision of they have their own computer and internet access. It is an issue of protecting them from all the freaks out there that are preying on kids on the internet. I don't mean severe parental intervention, just honest supervision and awareness of what your kids are doing. I searched for my friend's kid, age 15, on myspace the other day and the stuff he said about himself about drugs and sex was unbelievable. I know if she knew she would be shocked and dismayed. I am shocked and dismayed that she hasn't checked to see what he is saying.

So, bottom line. If you decide that your kid is mature enough to have their own computer I hope that you keep tabs on it. Furthermore, if your kid is using the family computer, I would hope you keep tabs on it.

If the kid wants one and is familiar with using a computer than sure. But only if you are comfortable price wise. A computer is such a useful thing and mastering it early on gives kids a leg up in life. Maybe enable parental controls, but as long as you are aware of what the kid is doing on the computer you don't have to. Just check the history. But make sure you don't make the kid feel like he or she is being watched. I just have to say that I am surprised at how many other people don't think it is a good idea, computers are used for everything now-a-days. Like I said before, it is good to get a leg up.

As with everything... it depends...

Here is some thinking to consider.

1. Do you want to run the risk of your child to 'mess up' your system? Do you back up regularly to protect yourself when this WILL happen?

2. Do you want to compete for access to the system? I would think that homework takes precedence over surfing and bill paying.

3. Do you have room for a second PC in a common area of the house so you can keep tabs on where they are surfing and what they are doing? Don't put it in the bedroom where you can't supervise.

School work should be number on one the list of what they are using it for. In my opinion, a child MUST be computer savvy today in order to excel in school. My children were using WORD and PowerPoint very early in school for their work and their grades were better because of it. They can also use it for games and to replace the phone (Instant Messenger, Skype) but you must monitor their use. Is the child artistic? Then there are great programs to encourage and help them grow their talent. The limit is endless.

The only question sharing or their own system!

Hope this helps.

Here's a few more things to consider:

When I was 10, I had my own computer and was looking at porn,

When I was 14/15, I was chatting online with perverts. (This was before "To Catch A Predator") I wasn't having cyber sex, just generally making fun of them and being silly.

When I was 17, I was posting risque photos of myself.

All of this my mother didn't and still doesn't know about.

I know a sixteen year old girl that goes on Chat Roulette on the family computer.

You don't have to use your real name on Facebook or MySpace. Your kids/spouse/grandparents could have them and you'd be clueless.

I have 4 children ranging from ages 23- 6...well my 23 yr old has his own computer of course. As far as everyone else goes, there are two computers in my home and none of them are in my childrens rooms. I just feel that it takes human communication out of the home. my children have time limits for the computer and my husband and I monitor what they do and whare they go when they are useing the computer. I would honestly rather my children call their friends on the phone or go outside to see them. Its healthier....Just my oppinion.

A child does not need a computer until they are in high school