Recommended Website:
BBC: Dance Mat Typing
A ClickSchooling list member recommended today’s website from the BBC that teaches kids (ages 7-11) how to touch type for free! It uses the hook of the popular video arcade game, Dance Mat. (Players move their feet on a floor mat in time to music, following instructions broadcast on a computer screen.) In this case, you simply move your fingers on the keyboard by following the directions on your computer screen. There are animated instructors, lots of funny sound effects, and colorful illustrations to engage kids.
The typing tutorial has 4 levels that are divided into 3 stages. Begin at Level 1 and build up your skills gradually through to Level 4.
You will need headphones or speakers to enjoy the song and dance in each game. The games use the Flash plug-in — if your computer doesn’t have Flash, you can find information on how to download it at the website, or you can play the alternative interactive versions available at each stage.
Worksheets are available for each stage that can be printed out and used offline with a typewriter or computer.
Have fun typing!
