7 Basic Computer Skills for Kids to Learn

Kids can benefit from early training in essential computer skills. Teaching proper technique gives them a head start and provides a foundation from which to become proficient in the future.

Computer basics for kids are important because technology is ingrained in so many aspects of school and daily life. These skills support learning, communication, and safe participation online.

Teaching kids computer basics helps them confidently operate devices for real tasks such as writing assignments, submitting work, collaborating in documents, and communicating with teachers. It also helps them build safe habits early on. Here are core skills for parents and educators to focus on.

Basic Computer Skills Kids Should Learn

Students who start early with technology can gain a significant learning advantage. This guide focuses on practical skills most children should learn through elementary/primary school.

1. Operating a touchscreen and mouse

Many kids start on touchscreens, but school and work still rely heavily on mouse and keyboard. Teach touchscreen basics such as tapping, swiping, and pinching, then build mouse skills: accurate pointing, single-click, double-click, click-and-drag, and right-click.

A simple benchmark is whether a child can select text, drag a file into a folder, scroll comfortably, and use the trackpad or mouse without “hunting” for the pointer.

2. Using a keyboard

Learning to type is a vital next step for elementary students. Typing is the primary way to input information into a computer. It is used for writing assignments, entering website URLs, searching, and using apps efficiently.

Starting early with typing helps children keep up with school tasks and reduces frustration when they need to write longer answers or complete online activities.

Introduce kids to correct hand positioning and build accuracy before speed. Tools like Jungle Junior can help teach hand placement and basic keyboard familiarity through guided lessons.

3. Core software and apps

Some software and apps appear on almost any device and are commonly used in school settings. Kids should learn how to use these programs as a basic computer skill.

Start with word processors such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs for drafting and editing. Next, introduce spreadsheets such as Excel or Google Sheets to teach simple tables, sorting, and basic calculations. Also teach presentation tools (PowerPoint or Google Slides) because many school tasks involve slides, images, and speaking notes.

For creative work, simple drawing tools and beginner video editors can build confidence while reinforcing basic skills such as saving files, importing images, and exporting final work.

4. Sending and receiving emails

Email is still a standard communication tool for schools, services, and most workplaces. Children benefit from learning the basics early, especially how to read messages carefully and respond clearly.

Teach a simple structure for school emails: a clear subject line, a greeting, one short paragraph stating the purpose, and a polite sign-off. Also teach practical skills such as attaching a file, replying to a thread, and recognizing the difference between a real sender address and a display name.

Because scams often arrive by email, teach kids to avoid clicking unexpected links or opening unknown attachments, and to ask a trusted adult when something looks strange.

5. Computer maintenance

A basic understanding of how devices should be looked after helps prevent avoidable problems and reduces stress during schoolwork.

For younger kids (2–9)

Teach gentle handling of devices, especially screens, hinges, and charging cables. Show kids how to wait for programs to load instead of repeatedly clicking or forcing a shutdown.

For older kids (10+)

Teach habits that prevent lost work: saving regularly, naming files clearly, and knowing where downloads go. Explain software updates in simple terms and why they matter for security. Introduce basic troubleshooting steps such as checking Wi-Fi, restarting an app, rebooting the device, and asking for help with error messages.

6. Safe and smart internet use

Learning how to safely navigate the internet is important for everyone. Kids should learn how to enter URLs, use search responsibly, and recognize when a website or message is trying to trick them into clicking, downloading, or sharing personal information. These habits also matter at school, where students regularly use classroom technology online.

For children aged 5 to 10, start with basics such as using strong passwords, not sharing personal information, and thinking before visiting a link.

Australian Cyber Security Centre: Protect your children online

A simple rule for primary-age kids is “stop and ask” before sharing personal details, clicking a surprise link, or downloading anything. Make sure they know it is always okay to pause and get help.

7. Beginner coding

Coding can be a great skill for students who enjoy problem-solving or want to explore a computer science career, such as creating games, animations, or apps.

For most kids, the best introduction is visual, block-based coding (for example, drag-and-drop logic). The goal at this stage is not memorizing syntax. It is learning how instructions, loops, and conditions work, and building patience with debugging.

What to teach by age

Ages 5–7: Basic touch and mouse control, opening and closing apps, careful device handling, simple typing practice, and “stop and ask” safety habits.

Ages 8–10: Confident typing for short paragraphs, copying and pasting, saving work in the correct place, basic document editing, and understanding links, ads, and safe browsing.

Ages 11–13: Managing files and folders independently, using shared documents responsibly, attaching files correctly, basic spreadsheet tables, and stronger security habits such as unique passwords and cautious link handling.

File management and school workflow

One of the most important “computer basics” for primary students is file management. Many children can use apps, but struggle when school requires them to name a file, locate a download, attach a document, or upload the correct version.

Teach these foundations:

• How to create folders and keep school files organized by subject and term.
• How to name files clearly (for example: “Science_report_Alex_2026-02-10.docx”).
• Where downloads go and how to move a file into the correct folder.
• How to upload work to a portal or classroom system and confirm it uploaded correctly.
• How to export or save as PDF when a teacher requests it.

Advanced Skills: Microsoft Excel

Starting early is one of the best ways to become comfortable with spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel. Spreadsheets help kids make lists, organize information, perform calculations, and create simple charts.

Spreadsheet skills can also support school learning in subjects like math and science by making data more visual and easier to interpret. Excel is widely used in business, and spreadsheets remain a simple, powerful way to manage information.