blog

Classes are Now Being Offered at La Petite in Hampton

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 02:25:00 +0100

These classes are for children enrolled in La Petite. We have hit the ground running with two classes being offered at this location. We are anticipating having to offer a third class in the new year. the children just love the class! It is such a wonderful feeling to go into the location and have all these children run up to you so excited and happy! It sure makes my day!

Classes are Now Being Offered at La Petite in Williamsburg

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 02:20:05 +0100

These classes are for children enrolled in La Petite. We are excited about bringing these classes to this center and we are looking forward to all the children getting started with the classes!

Classes are Now Being Offered at Child Time in Yorktown

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 02:20:17 +0100

These classes are for children enrolled in Child Time. We have gotten off to a great start with two classes and we are getting ready to offer a third class as enrollment is really picking up! The children are so excited to come to computer class! They laugh and have a great time!

New Location Being Added To Our Schedule

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 22:43:54 +0100

Byte Size Learning LLC is happy to announce that we are now offering classes at Gold's Gym. Gold's Gym is located at 815 Middle Ground Blvd., Newport News, VA 23606. The classes will be held on Saturday's from 2-3 pm. There are already 3 children enrolled in this class, so we anticipate that we will have to open up another class shortly. If you are interested in enrolling your child in this class, please give us a call. If you would be interested in a different day or time, give us a call and let us know.

How Imagine Tomorrow Aligns With The National Educational Technology Standards (NET-S) Pre K-2 (4-8)

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 23:43:56 +0100

THE National Education Technology Standards (NETS) 2008 has outlined the following skill areas as part of their profile for early childhood students.

Imagine Tomorrow Computer Classes for Kids aligns to these standards in the ways described below.

Grades PK–2 (Ages 4–8)

The following experiences with technology and digital resources are examples of learning activities in which students might engage during PK-Grade 2 (Ages 4-8):

1. Illustrate and communicate original ideas and stories using digital tools and media-rich resources. (1,2)

Imagine Tomorrow teaches young children about technology through original age-appropriate stories. As part of each lesson, children are encouraged to form original ideas and express themselves using technology as a creative tool. Self expression is encouraged through positive and meaningful experiences that integrate a variety of technology resources that combine video, text, sound, and graphics in a rich multi-media experience.

2. Identify, research, and collect data on an environmental issue using digital resources and propose a developmentally appropriate solution. (1,3,4)

Imagine Tomorrow’s lessons not only teach children about computers, they also use technology to teach children about the world around them. Our program teaches environmental issues such as the importance of recycling, protecting our beach dunes, planting trees, and many other topics. Children learn through our program how to use technology to solve environmental problems to make the world around them a better place.

3. Engage in learning activities with learners from multiple cultures through e-mail and other electronic means. (2,6)

Imagine Tomorrow teaches young children how to use technology as a tool to communicate with people around the world. They learn how computers, email, internet, text messaging, networking, and other technologies are used to make the world a smaller place. Using our custom designed software children experience first-hand how ideas can be shared instantly and collaboration can take place virtually. Every lesson includes an email section where children use email to express what they have learned and share their ideas in a totally safe and simulated way.

4. In a collaborative work group, use a variety of technologies to produce a digital presentation or product in a curriculum area. (1,2,6)

Imagine Tomorrow’s classes encourage group interaction as the children work together as a team to reach a common goal. The class works together as a group, collaborating during the interactive video portion of the class where they form their goals and learn the lesson of the day. Next, they work individually on computers to solve the problem and apply the skills they learn. As part of each custom software package, the children work on creative activities that allow them to present their ideas and express the skills they learned.

5. Find and evaluate information related to a current or historical person or event using digital resources. (3)

Imagine Tomorrow works primarily with younger children to teach them how to use technology as a resource. The program builds proficiency in many areas of research including using the Internet, Search Engines, Email, and other forms of technology to discover new information and apply it in a meaningful way. In the context of our lessons the children interact with both a live-action host as well as fictional animated characters that come to life through our original software.

6. Use simulations and graphical organizers to explore and depict patterns of growth such as the life cycles of plants and animals. (1,3,4)

Imagine Tomorrow’s custom software integrates activities that are designed to teach children patterns of growth and life cycles. For example, at File Farm children might work on an activity that teaches them about growing their own plants by first planting seeds, watering them, watching them sprout, and then harvesting the food. The children also learn about animal life cycles with interactions that include bugs hatching from eggs and other integrated experiences.

7. Demonstrate safe and cooperative use of technology. (5)

Imagine Tomorrow teaches safety with every lesson that involves the use of technology as a tool to communicate. We address issues such as Internet safety, encouraging children to only use these tools with an adult. As children learn how to share ideas and communicate using email, text messaging, instant messaging, cell phones, and other devices, Imagine Tomorrow uses simulated experiences to guide children through the process of safely communicating ideas.

8. Independently apply digital tools and resources to address a variety of tasks and problems. (4,6)

Imagine Tomorrow teaches young children to apply new technology skills to solve real problems. Each lesson leads children through a story that is an age appropriate experience designed to teach them how to apply new technology skills to solve an exciting new problem. For example one lesson might focus on keyboarding skills and the children learn to use the backspace key to fix a mixed up message. With different challenges as part of each lesson, the children are constantly engaged in new lessons that feature all new activities customized to that lesson. Every class utilizes a unique custom software package that automatically adapts to each child’s individual ability level to ensure each child understand
how to independently apply these skills.

9. Communicate about technology using developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology. (6)

Imagine Tomorrow classes begin with group interactivity where children are introduced to technology terminology that is developmentally appropriate. The terms are introduced as part of a meaningful story that is designed exclusively for young learners. Visiting places like “Microchip Mountains” or “Internet Island”, children are introduced to new concepts and terminology. As the children then work on the custom software, the terminology is reinforced throughout the lesson to continue to expand a child’s understanding. Through creative activities where children simulate emails and other messages, the child can express these technology concepts through words, pictures, and sound.

10. Demonstrate the ability to navigate in virtual environments such as electronic books, simulation software, and Web sites. (6)

The Imagine Tomorrow program uses custom software that allows children to independently navigate a virtual world that is filled with the latest technology. As they explore this environment, children work on activities that simulate real world technology based experiences such as simulated email, messaging, networking, and Internet exploration. Using simulated experiences allows the program to introduce sophisticated high-end concepts in a safe and age appropriate way.

THE National Education Technology Standards (NET-S) 1998 has outlined the following skill areas as part of their profile for early childhood students.

Imagine Tomorrow Computer Classes for Kids aligns to these standards in the ways described below.

Prior to completion of Grade 2 (Age 8) students will have the opportunity to demonstrate the following:

1. Use input devices (e.g., mouse, keyboard, remote control) and output devices (e.g., monitor, printer) to successfully operate computers, VCRs, audiotapes, and other technologies. (I)

Children enrolled in Imagine Tomorrow classes always work on their own computers. Their personalized hands-on experience helps build proficiency with the mouse, keyboard, and other devices. Each class also uses custom software that adapts to each child’s individual ability level. The every original software package combines mouse, keyboard, activities designed to specifically work on these important areas of proficiency. In addition, the Imagine Tomorrow curriculum introduces young children to a wide variety of technology devices from printers and monitors, to web cams and cell phones. These technologies are introduced to children as part of a story that allows children to see the use in an age-appropriate context.

2. Use a variety of media and technology resources for directed and independent learning activities. (I, III)

One of the most important things children learn as part of the Imagine Tomorrow program is that there are many different ways to access information. Through our fun-loving original characters like “Bookworm” and lessons that introduce sophisticated concepts like “search engines” and the Internet, the children learn how to find information to solve problems. As part of each class, children learn a new technology concept and then have the unique opportunity to apply the skill they are learning about to solve the “problem of the day”. The children are encouraged to think independently and
throughout our custom software the students are constantly challenged to make independent creative choices that demonstrate their comprehension.

3. Communicate about technology using developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology. (I)

Imagine Tomorrow classes begin with group interactivity where children are introduced to technology terminology that is developmentally appropriate. The terms are introduced as part of a meaningful story that is designed exclusively for young learners. Visiting places like “Microchip Mountains” or “Internet Island”, children are introduced to new concepts and terminology. As the children then work on the custom software, the terminology is reinforced throughout the lesson to continue to expand a child’s understanding. Through creative activities where children simulate emails and other
messages, the child can express these technology concepts through words, pictures, and sound.

4. Use developmentally appropriate multimedia resources (e.g., interactive books, educational software, elementary multimedia encyclopedias) to support learning. (I)

The Imagine Tomorrow custom software has been designed specifically for early learners. It is the only program that uses a unique software package to teach each lesson. In addition the program utilized rich interactive video content. The program also supports literacy skills which are threaded through each lesson. By teaching young children literacy and technology skills together, the Imagine Tomorrow program is giving children a strong foundation that supports other learning initiatives. Children learn more than how to use the technology. They learn why to use it and when to use it.

5. Work cooperatively and collaboratively with peers, family members, and others when using technology in the classroom. (II)

One of the most exciting components of the Imagine Tomorrow program is the custom website that allows parents to log on from home. Each lesson has its own website with activities that reinforce mouse, keyboard, and creative skills, plus lesson summaries, and ideas for reinforcement for parents. This allows the learning opportunities to be extended to home and be shared with peers, family members and others.

6. Demonstrate positive social and ethical behaviors when using technology. (II)

One of the most powerful things we can teach our young children, in a positive way to promote communication that is meaningful. Imagine Tomorrow gears all lessons towards its young audience understanding that children need to be taught at a young age to use technology to share ideas, work together, and solve problems. These skills will allow children to be the leaders of tomorrow. Our program always encourages positive, meaningful communications and also encourages all different forms of technology based communication from emai l, text messaging, instant messaging, cellular, blue tooth, to networking, and Internet. We simulate positive interactions to guide children as they learn how to use these powerful tools in a safe way.

7. Practice responsible use of technology systems and software. (II)

One of the first lessons Imagine Tomorrow teaches children is to respect technology and respect each other. From simple rules that teach children not to bang on keyboards or be rough on the equipment, to entire lessons that teach skills like shutting down computers properly, the Imagine Tomorrow program is always teaching children to be responsible and respectful of the computers and technology they are using.

8. Create developmentally appropriate multimedia products with support from teachers, family members, or student partners. (III)

Each Imagine Tomorrow lesson follows a project-based approach where at the end of each class the child has successfully completed a new mission using a variety of different tools and techniques. The program integrates all forms of multimedia technology such as video, graphics, sound, and animation. The children not only learn the skills but are given creative tools to self-express what they are learning. These creative opportunities allow teachers to check for comprehension and encourage creative use of the technology. These projects can be extended by teachers, parents, and family through the unique Adventure Journal websites that go along with each lesson and reinforce skills learned.

9. Use technology resources (e.g., puzzles, logical thinking programs, writing tools, and digital cameras, drawing tools) for problem solving, communication, and illustration of thoughts, ideas, and stories. (III, IV, V, VI)

Imagine Tomorrow uses custom software that is rich with puzzles, activities to develop thinking skills, creative writing activities, and other drawing and graphic tools. These components are part of every class and are designed to allow children to further expand on their understanding of the lesson. These activities are also designed to adjust to the child’s ability level allowing children to move from basic letter recognition to word and sentence development using these custom programs.

10. Gather information and communicate with others using telecommunications, with support from teachers, family members, or student partners. (IV)

One of the most exciting things to see when you watch and Imagine Tomorrow class is the way students proudly express the skills that they learn. Our program is rich with interactive segments that encourage children to verbalize the information they are learning and interact in a group setting where they can share the new skills they are acquiring. Imagine Tomorrow believe that true learning occurs when children can apply what they are taught and communicate their ideas successfully. Our program is designed to foster and encourage these skills through our software and interactive videos and also through our unique approach to learning. Children (especially young learners) will develop positive feelings towards communicating their ideas when they are learning in an environment that is positive and designed to lead them to success. Imagine Tomorrow creates software that promotes this approach through lots of positive reinforcement, personal encouragement, and applause and rewards for every success. When children complete the program they are not only learning new technology skills, they are proud to share these experiences with friends and family.

Copyright Imagine Tomorrow 2009

Classes Now Being Offered At Child Time in Hampton

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:33:51 +0100

We are happy to announce that we are now offering classes at Child Time Learning Center, 2 Manhattan Square, Hampton, VA. These classes are for children enrolled at Child Time. We have had two classes so far and due to the excitement of the children and the wonderful curriculum, more and more children are enrolling! I am told that the students ask each day if today is computer day! They are all having such a fun learning experience! It is so wonderful to watch them come into class with so much enthusiasm and leave grinning from ear to ear!

Free Trial Classes being offered April 19th-25th

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 13:36:34 +0100

The week of April 19-25, 2009 is the Week of the Young Child.

During the week of April 19th-25th, we are offering:

For new customers-Free, no obligation, Trial Classes

For existing customers-Bring a friend or sibling to class

Call (757)254-4448 to reserve your spot and help us celebrate the Week of the Young Child!

Imagine Tomorrow has teamed up with the NAEYC, National Association for the Education of Young Children, the world’s largest early childhood education association, to spotlight the "Week of the Young Child." The Week of the Young Child was begun in 1971 with the purpose of focusing public attention on the needs of young children and their families - providing insight into the importance of initiatives, such as literacy, in the early years. The 2009 theme for this important week is "Bring Communities Together for Children— Children Bring Communities Together" - a sentiment that is not only shared by our business, but part of the underlying mission of the entire Imagine Tomorrow program.

At Imagine Tomorrow we believe that technology can play an important role to Bring Communities Together for Children. Our program is not only about teaching children computer skills, our Imagine Tomorrow Classes reach beyond the classroom with online learning experiences designed to be shared with parents, caregivers, and others in the community. Through our story-based lessons, we try to teach children the role of technology to communicate with others, share goals, and improve the world around them. Not only do we use technology to involve today's community to support our children in their learning, we are committed to teaching young children the social benefits of using computers so that they will grow and go on to continue these goals.

Most people recognize the importance of teaching young children to read, but never realize that this process starts long before children begin exhibiting reading and writing production skills. Did you know that leading research suggests that the critical period for literacy development is birth through age eight? This means that everything from 'reading' gestures and expressions, to first words and letter recognition, all impact a child’s future literacy. While in the past the emphasis in traditional teaching centered on drill and practice, research has now shown that the skills that are more important to future success are best taught through engaging literacy experiences.

Wondering how a Computer Class can focus on literacy? The answer lies in our unique
design. Every Imagine Tomorrow class is based on a "story" of the day. Children are immersed in the story, participating in the adventure first-hand by taking on the role of a main character in the plot. Using proven literacy techniques, students advance through age-appropriate activities that continually improve their early literacy skills while always checking for comprehension. The result is an engaging early literacy experience that involves children in an adventure that is full of
fun and learning.

At Imagine Tomorrow, we believe that it is so important to be in touch with the latest
understanding of how children learn. Our world today, is very different than years past. The need for new ways to approach literacy, are just beginning to be better understood.
Communications that in the past were verbal (by person or phone), now demand more reading and writing. Messages today are sent by email, Internet, fax, and can be read using a multitude of wireless and handheld devices. Children will need technology and literacy skills, together, to build their better future. Imagine Tomorrow is proud to be the creator of a program that is progressively looking at these new, challenging goals, and reaching them with a high quality program that is unlike any other.

For more information visit NAEYC.

The Kids Are So Excited

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:34:56 +0100

The parents are saying that their kids are having so much fun in the computer classes, it is all the kids talk about all week long!!!! They were so excited to get to class tonight........they couldn't get in the room fast enough!

It is so wonderful to see these young people so happy and excited. It is amazing to see the difference in just one week. Tonight we also did a freeze dance...It was wonderful watching the kids dancing and then freeze when the music stopped. We were all laughing and having a great time......There is nothing like a child's laughter!

We still have openings in our Thursday 6-7pm class. Tuition is prorated, so you can join anytime. If this time does not work for your schedule, let me know what time does work and if I have enough interest in that time, I will be happy to open up another class in that time slot!

What is an Imagine Tomorrow Computer Class for Kids?

Sat, 28 Mar 2009 11:58:43 +0100

It's more than just computers - it is a complete learning experience for kids 3-7. The class incorporates computer and technology skills with academic skills such as Early Reading/Writing, Early Math, Critical Thinking Skills, Problem Solving, Teamwork, and self confidence all in a fun, interactive way that kids just love!

Children love coming to Imagine Tomorrow classes! The classes are fun, hands-on and totally interactive.

Children become computer detectives and they go on different learning adventures each class to imaginative places like Internet Island, Laptop Lagoon, or the Keyboard Castle!

Every class, they first sit in circle time to get a pre-recorded video voicemail about their mission that day. They actually think they are videoconferencing! They find out where they are going and what they'll be applying on the computer that day.

Everything is delivered in a sophisticated yet age-appropriate way.

It's just amazing how quickly even our 2-3 year olds start to pick up concepts like email, hotspots, and cellular because its just done in a way they can understand.

Then, they each break off on to their own computer, where they move individually ahead at their own pace - both academically and technically.

Imagine Tomorrow has developed custom software designed for each lesson and it scaffolds to each child's level. Within the first few computer activities in our software, it is able to identify where the child is at and then move them ahead from there.

The children all feel like they are working as a team of computer detectives to complete their goal of the day, yet indivdiually when they are on their own computer, it's all customized to their own levels without them realizing it. So whether its a multi-age class or class of kids the same exact age, it's always customized.

At then end of class the children come back into the circle time, get a star on their computer detective badge for doing such a great job, and they get a sneak peek at their mission for the next class.

They build so much excitement and self confidence that by the time you pick them up from class, they are bubbling over with excitement and they ask if they can come everyday!!

Parents get a password to log in to our website to see what lessons their children did that day, with information about where we went on the learning adventure, and we even upload a sampling of a few software activities, like a keyboarding a mouse activity, from that lesson that the children can do for reinforcement at home!

Every year Imagine Tomorrow develops new software, curriculum and lessons. Children typically come to the classes for years!

Imagine Tomorrow was founded in 1991 by teacher Judy Patterson, now CEO. Her teaching approach integrating technology and early literacy has been nationally recognized by organizations in Washington DC and the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).

Copyright
(c) 2004-2008 Imagine Tomorrow. All Rights Reserved. No Unauthorized Copying

Big Technology in Little Hands

Sat, 28 Mar 2009 12:00:22 +0100

Here is an article that appeared in ParentGuide. It was written by Judy Patterson, founder of Imagine Tomorrow.

Big Technology in Little Hands
Enhancing preschoolers’ learning with computers.
by Judy Patterson

A screensaver splashes family photos across a computer monitor, presenting a slide show of one photograph to the next— until a little hand reaches out and shakes the mouse. The screen instantly changes to display a window with letters, numbers and images. “Wow,” thinks the child with the wandering hand, “I just made that happen!”

Even before any children’s software is added to this computer, the child makes some interesting observations, namely that pressing the keyboard buttons causes letters to appear on the screen and that moving a mouse causes a bright arrow move around in a matching motion.

The computer sparks children’s curiosity by displaying pictures with color, showing luminosity, making sounds and being impacted by touch. The computer simultaneously engages multiple senses. Now add stimulating content, such as chid-focused software and Web sites, and the computer can be one of the best tools to get children passionate about learning.

No doubt, young children today are surrounded by a lot of high-tech products— some created for and marketed specifically to them, and other gadgets and technology that adults around the children use daily. Some parents wonder whether their child is the right age to use a computer and whether there are educational benefits. With so many stories of how computers distract from important physical playtime, and the dangers lurking online, it is likely refreshing for parents to hear that there is a good side to the latest and greatest technology. And, yes, it is fine for a preschool-age child to be on the computer— and the child can actually learn and develop while using it.

When children learn through multiple senses, research has shown that they better retain information. Young children love to touch objects to see what will happen. As a child presses a letter on the computer keyboard, he or she may then see something appear on the screen and also hear a sound. Through touch, sight and sound, the child becomes interested and engaged.

In addition to delivering content to children in a meaningful way, the computer introduces and improves several skills. The basic understanding of cause and effect is apparent with the child who shakes the mouse or presses the keys to make something happen on the screen. A related benefit includes enhancing visual discrimination skills, which are important for learning to read and write. Young children using computers come to distinguish letters on the keyboard. And understanding letters, numbers and left-to-right progression are essential pre-reading skills. Using the computer, the child also improves problem-solving skills and memory. With guided use and well-chosen content, the computer can ignite creative expression, too.

Another great benefit to using the computer is that the child learns unrestricted by labels. The computer doesn’t judge or apply labels to the child it “teaches.” Rather, the child is free to explore and learn in his or her own style and pace, accomplishing great things along the way.

What is the right age for introducing the computer to your child? While the answer to this question varies, some children as young as 2½ years have the attention, understanding and eye-hand coordination to prepare them for the computer. Though other children need a little more time, a child is generally ready to start using the computer between ages 3 and 4.

Learning happens best in a setting where there is structure, including rules, respect and balance. This means, if you are ready to have your preschool-age child begin exploring the computer, you should plan to be involved firsthand in the process. The right software or Web site may keep your child occupied and learning, but don’t underestimate your role as your child’s coach and teacher, right at your child’s side, to set the rules, give guidance on various tasks and offer praise for your child’s accomplishments.

Now that you feel confident that the computer will benefit your child, are you prepared to let your child loose on the home computer? Before you just sit your child down for a preschool educational Web site activity or children’s software program, heed these important suggestions.

Let your child know that he or she is about to do something really special— something only “big” people get to do. Also encourage your child to value the privilege of using the computer. For example, you might say to your child, “You have been behaving so well. Guess what? You are going to get to use the computer!”

Teach your child right from the start that he or she needs to follow specific rules when using the computer. Make the rules simple for your young child to understand. You might say, “How do you use a computer? Do you think you should bang on the computer?” Shake your head and say an exaggerated “Nooo.” Next say: “Do you think you should tap the keys with one finger? Yes. First, let’s pretend.” Along with your child, pretend to tap keys in the air using the pointer finger. Then, introduce your child to the mouse. Simply placing a sticker on the left mouse button makes it easy for a young child to know which button to click. Have your child practice clicking the mouse.

When you think your child has grasped the movement of the mouse, the tapping of the keys and how the tasks are related to what happens on the screen, move on to trying your selected children’s software or Web site.
With every few months of age, a child typically experiences a substantial forward progression concerning his or her computer comprehension. If your child has attempted using the computer and you are not comfortable that your child is ready, give it a month or two and try again. You might be surprised by how much a child develops in a short span of time.

Given the right approach, young children can learn and develop many new skills using technology. It is most important to keep the experience a positive one, which means your child continuously uses the computer with respect and rules— and a compassionate voice praises the child’s accomplishments during the learning process.

Judy Patterson is an educator and founder of Imagine Tomorrow, a well-established and fast growing company that develops software and content for children’s computer classes. Imagine Tomorrow licenses its program to entrepreneur business owners who run computer classes in preschools, at their own commercial locations or even on a mobile “Puterbus.” Thousands of children from coast to coast participate in Imagine Tomorrow classes every week. Visit www.imaginetomorrow.com to find a class near you, or if you are from the Hampton Roads, Virginia area, visit this website for more information.