computers Archives - 3 Kids and Us

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Not all of us, in fact very few of us, have true skills when it comes to computing, for sure we know how to operate the internet, check social media, but true knowledge is something that many of us just don’t have. It is for this reason that if you have an affinity for computing, be it software skills, development abilities or being able to write code with ease, that you should be looking at pursuing a CIS degree and steering your career down a path whereby you can use your skills.

Let’s take a look then at what kind of careers are available to you if you have a natural or learned talent for the inner workings of computing.

Computer Engineer

Engineering is about way more than just designing bridges and aircrafts and computer engineering is one of the branches of this profession that is growing in popularity and necessity. Highly successful engineer V. Reddy Kancharla has referred to computer engineering as the future of the profession and if you have abilities in hardware and software then this could be a strong career choice for you. Computer engineers work throughout industries and take a wide variety of companies into the modern, digital age.

Freelancer

There are hundreds of websites and online companies being set up each and every year and these companies rely heavily on people with computer skills to become successful. The chief method of finding staff to complete tasks for these companies is through the use of freelancers as it minimizes the necessity for hiring full time staff. You can tap into this market and make a good living from undertaking freelance tasks. Freelancing means that you can work as and when you want and very often those who have limited knowledge are more than ready to pay high prices for those who do.

Development

Web development and application development are highly sought after positions in the modern world as more and more people look to add an internet presence to their business or create a new application. Apps in particular are incredible successful thanks to their usage on smartphones and tablets and if you have the ability to turn ideas into reality then you can make a great living as a web developer.

Entrepreneur

At the heart of the businesses that people like Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates have set up is a company that was but around the computer skills of their CEOs. If you have a great idea for a computer or internet-based business then you are already half way there thanks to your technical knowledge. Many people have great ideas and have no idea as to how they can turn it into a business but with your pre-existing computer skills, you can design the program that you think can be successful and then take it to market without needing to pay for the development. All you will need is some business skills and you will be ready to take the World by storm.

Are you wondering if it’s time to buy your five-year-old a computer? If you’ve been noticing more and more cartoons and coloring games on your work-assigned laptop or desktop monitor lately, now would be a good time to get your child’s first computer. But, is this move right for her, and is she old enough? Yes, absolutely!

Did you know that in the year 2013 alone, around 79% of kids were using their home computers? Further, kids aged 3 to 17 years or 6 out of 10 kids were adept at using digital devices including mobile phones and tablets. By the first or second grades, when kids are already using computers in school, it’s a good idea for her to have one at home so she can learn while playing games and other child-friendly activities.

Whether or not to buy your child’s first computer is an easy decision. But, as a parent, you need to put a lot of thought into the right device to buy. Here are some basic considerations you must keep in mind.

Get a Family Computer

As your kids grow older, they’re going to need a computer for homework as well playing games. Choose a device that you can set up in the family living room where you can supervise the kids’ activities. Given that they can inadvertently stumble on inappropriate YouTube clips, videos, and other material, you’ll want to keep a careful watch on what the kids are doing. Some parents also prefer a laptop computer so that they can put it away when they’re not present to watch their kids. Not only can you find affordable laptops, but choosing a refurbished device as your child’s first computer can bring your costs down.

Check for the Latest Software

Even if the refurbished computer is a bit worn down, your kids are going to be so thrilled at the prospect of having one; they won’t notice it. However, you must make sure that it has the latest software. Such software installed in the newest operating systems give you the most advanced of parental controls. You can also verify that the computer has all the security measures that can protect you and the family from phishing and other threats. Create folders that have your child’s favorite games and websites that you’ve approved. They’ll find accessing them so easy that they won’t feel the need to surf and search. Limiting internet access is another strategy you can use to protect your kids.

Get Your Child Her Account

When buying your child’s first computer, look for one that supports Windows 10 so you can set up an individual account for your child. Create an account on account.microsoft.com/family with the appropriate age restrictions and also fix time limits. You’ll also be able to restrict the websites your child can visit and allow her to play only those games and use apps that are appropriate for her. Getting a Microsoft account that is an extension of the family has another advantage. Your child can use it to sign into any other device aside from the computer and the settings you’ve set will apply to the device. Every week, you’ll receive an email informing you of the websites your child has visited, the time she spent on each, and the total time she spends on the computer.

Added Accessories

You’re going to need a bunch of accessories for your child’s first computer. These can include software that can charge the child’s first computer quickly. Look for other add-ons like a new storage device or a RAM memory upgrade along with a new battery, and you’re good to go. Lowering the loading times will ensure that your child spends the minimum amount of time on the computer. Give her creativity an added boost with the help of DVD or CD burning device, scanner, and digital camera.

Should You Opt for a Refurbished Computer

Buying your kids an inexpensive, refurbished computer is a wise choice. You can ensure that in case they have spills and accidents and cause significant damage to the CPU or keyboard, it’s not a major loss. Look for a manufacturer-sourced refurbished device as your child’s first computer. Such products are sold after strict quality control measures and extensive checking. Look for a recently released device as your child’s first computer, and you might be able to find one that is practically new or hasn’t been used at all. It could last her a good long while.

The Right Time to Buy a Computer

In an increasingly tech-savvy world, digital literacy has become very essential. You’ll want to expose your child to various devices so she can adapt and learn to deal with them in a professional setting later in life. However, it is also understandable that you’re concerned about the right age for exposure and if this move is good for her. Given the rising number of cases of obesity among children, you’ll want to ensure that she does not spend too much time indoors glued to the computer. At the same time, giving her access to additional study material is an advantage you’ll want to make available to her.

When making your decision, assess how mature your child is and if her psyche is developed enough to manage devices. As a parent, you’re the best judge of whether or not it’s time to choose your child’s first computer and the perfect device for her.

Career Choices For Those With Computer Skills