Websites for Typing Practice: Enhancing Elementary Typing Skills

Since I changed roles from being a Kindergarten teacher to a Special Education Resource Teacher, the amount of technology that I use with students has changed drastically. As part of my role, I help teachers and students find ways of using assistive technology like laptops with Google Read&Write and OrbitNote. Learning how to type is a helpful skill for efficiency in student work but it seems easiest to train younger students with websites for typing practice, just as it’s more difficult to teach older students proper pencil grip.

If you’re anything like me, you know how important it is for our students to pick up essential tech skills early on. And one of those skills that’s becoming increasingly vital in this digital age is typing. But, let’s be real, teaching typing to young kids can be a bit of a challenge.

The good news? There are some fantastic websites out there that can make typing practice a breeze, and dare I say it, even fun! So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive into the world of typing practice for our little ones.

1. TypingClub

For a more structured approach to typing practice, TypingClub is an excellent choice. With its free lessons and user-friendly interface, it’s perfect for the classroom setting.

The program offers tutorials, drills, and even tests to track progress. You can customize lessons according to your students’ skill levels and monitor their growth over time.

2. Dance Mat Typing

I must admit, I was initially skeptical about the name, but oh boy, did Dance Mat Typing surprise me! This site, developed by the BBC, is an interactive and animated adventure that guides kids through the process of learning to type.

The quirky characters and engaging activities keep the kids hooked while they learn proper finger placement and typing techniques.

3. NitroType

What’s better than turning typing practice into a thrilling competition? NitroType lets students race against their friends or the computer by typing out words to accelerate their cars.

It’s like Mario Kart meets touch typing, and the excitement is contagious. Plus, it helps kids improve their speed and accuracy while having a blast.

4. ABCya’s Keyboard Challenge

We all know that kids learn best when they’re having fun, and ABCya’s Keyboard Challenge takes this principle to heart. This interactive game presents various challenges that gradually introduce kids to the keyboard layout.

From simple key identification to typing words and sentences, this game is like a virtual keyboard playground.

5. TypeTastic!

If you’re looking for something designed exclusively for the younger crowd, TypeTastic! is a fantastic option. With colorful graphics, catchy music, and a variety of games, this website makes typing feel like playtime.

It covers everything from letter recognition to full words and sentences, making it perfect for our elementary school learners.

6. Turtle Diary

Turtle Diary offers a wide range of educational activities, and their typing games are no exception. With different difficulty levels, these games cater to kids of all typing levels.

The interactive nature of the games keeps students engaged and motivated to improve their typing skills.

For any other Special Education workers or parents who are hoping to help children with special needs develop typing skills, check out these two adapted keyboards:

Large Print Computer Keyboard (affiliate link)

Playlearn Keyboard (affiliate link) – read the reviews about the @ symbol

So there you have it, my fellow educators! Incorporating typing practice into your curriculum doesn’t have to be a headache. With these engaging websites, you can turn typing into an enjoyable and productive learning experience for your young students.

Remember, the key is to make it feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. Happy typing!

Check out some of these other educational games I’ve gathered up over the years. Got any more typing tips or favorite websites? Let’s chat in the comments below. Together, we can make tech-savvy typists out of our little learners!