Q: I want my daughter, who is 18 months, to do well academically. She is very bright and curious. Is it too early to introduce her to some age- appropriate computer program to build her skills?

A: In a word, yes. We commend your wanting to help develop your child's mind, including her natural curiosity, but right now the computer isn't the way to go.

		Parenting with 4 Kids Nationally accredited, 4 Kids Early Learning Network serves children and families throughout the Mon Valley. Through this column, 4 Kids staff members answer reader questions about raising children in the critical early years. Email questions for consideration to: questions@4kidsearlyed.org, or mail to: 4 Kids Questions, 445 Fourth St., Braddock PA 15104.

For 18-month-olds, the computer -- like the TV -- simply produces physical and mental stagnation in children sitting before it. In fact, at our centers, we don't introduce the kids to computer use until they're 3 years old, when it's more developmentally appropriate. At that point we use age-appropriate pre-literacy, pre-math, and problem-solving programs. We never leave the kids alone with the computer (we want to make sure they're benefiting) and we keep computer sessions brief.

So what can you do between now and the time your little girl is old enough to benefit from the computer?

We suggest that you provide hands-on activities and experiences that focus on exploration, discovery, and creativity. Indoors, she can spend time with puzzles, smooth blocks, Lego blocks, linking chains, Play-Doh, musical instruments, finger paint, crayons, play kitchen items and tools, dress-up clothing and accessories, play phones, old keyboards, whiteboards, magnetic letters and numbers and, of course, loads of books.

Outdoors, play in the snow. Make snow angels and snowpeople. When it's warm enough, go on a bug hunt, gather leaves and do leaf rubbings, look for birds and other animals, blow bubbles, and play in a sandbox.

All of these activities will stimulate and develop your daughter's mind. They'll enhance her intellect, and prepare her for later reading, math, problem-solving, and other academic activities.

We also recommend enrolling your child in a quality early learning program on whatever schedule works for your family. Good early learning programs help greatly in getting children kindergarten-ready. You can find a listing of quality programs in your area at www.naeyc.org.