Technology is fast becoming a fundamental part of modern life; on a personal level computers can be found in people’s homes, offices and schools. Computers are not anymore just for use in commercial or government enterprises, software and program manufacturers have come up with numerous programs that can be used by just about any members of society, cutting across factors like age, language etc.  A good example of how computers are being used in a way that they were not commonly used is in elementary schools and below. Actually, past studies have shown that over 40% of young preschool aged children have used a form of computer device before the age 5. The figure leaps to over 70% when the age is increased to school going children below the age of 10 years old. Studies have also proven that modern software programs have increased the ability of computer devices to be effective teaching tools in school. 

An example of a. modern computer software that can be used as a tool for learning is a text to speech programs. This software has the ability to help children build up and strengthen many learning skills and competencies ranging from elementary education that is reading and writing all the way to arithmetic and the sciences. 

While some parents are uncertain about the benefit a preschool child can get from a text to speech program, this particular computer software that can be a great aid to your child learning. With it, the young child can accelerate and expand reading and writing awareness if the software is used to as an illustration tool.  When used for illustration, children are able to strengthen the association of a word with an object or expression.  Of course, this is nothing new, as television shows such as “Sesame Street” have been using illustrative and auditory based teaching techniques for decades.

Additionally, a text to speech program can be used to foster a strong, yet non-intimidating learning environment for young school children.  By integrating images, sounds, and attention-grabbing fun voice styles that are geared towards engaging the child's mind, an entertaining (and sometimes even relaxed) learning environment can be created.  And it goes without saying, a good learning environment helps to quicken the learning process. 

Other ways that a text to speech program can help your child learn is by reducing the need for your child to read.  This might sound counter productive, as we all want our children to be good readers, but simply put, sometimes your young one does not like to read.  In these situations, your child can learn by listening, and if they are watching the screen, they can also learn different words and how they are pronounced. 

Finally, a text to speech program also has high use for helping your child learn because it can be turned on and off at the will of the teacher-- how it is integrated into the learning experience is flexible.  This is valuable because it allows for a wide versatility of use, but does not stand in the way of the all important human connection and interaction in the learning process.

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