Right about the time Jack turned three last week, he developed a strong interest in our desktop computer. Since then, its been difficult keeping him away from the silly thing.

I really don't mind that Jack plays on the computer. I think it's terrific that he is learning to work with a mouse. He's becoming a pro at moving the pointer around the screen, and "clicking" on the items that he wants to select. It's really quite an impressive feat for a toddler. He's manipulating the mouse better than many adults that I know.

How can a computer possibly capture the attention of a 3-year old? Jack is hooked on PBSKids.org. It's really a well-designed site. The site includes Jack's favorite PBS programs, and incorporates fun and simple educational games that relate to the theme of each show. For example, you can build sand castles with Curious George, visit the Neighborhood of Make-Believe with Mr. Rogers, or feed "letter" cookies to Cookie Monster on the Sesame Street page. Jack's favorite activity of late is going on reading adventures with Super Why!.

While it's great that Jack is developing his computer skills at an early age, I really think it's important that his time on the computer be limited and regulated. While I know there's no chance that Jack will start a profile on networking sites such as MySpace or Facebook, I don't want him thinking that 3 hours on the computer is part of our daily routine.

Besides, he may be sitting in front of computer for 40+ hours a week some day for his career. At this stage of his life, he's better off surfing our backyard rather than the internet.