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How to be kind and helpful when using computers with friends.
What if your computer could tell if you were being a good friend? Just like on the playground, being kind on the computer makes everything more fun!
When we use a computer with a friend, we follow the One-Mouse Rule. This means that only person holds the mouse at a time. While your friend uses the mouse, your job is to be a Helper. You can look at the screen and help them find the right buttons. After a few minutes, you switch! Taking turns means everyone gets to learn and no one feels left out. It is like sharing a favorite book or a swing on the playground.
Step-by-step sharing: 1. Set a timer for minutes. 2. Friend A uses the mouse to play a learning game. 3. Friend B watches and says, 'You're doing great!' 4. When the timer beeps, Friend A gives the mouse to Friend B.
Quick Check
If you are the 'Helper' and not holding the mouse, what is your job?
Answer
To watch the screen and help your friend find buttons or cheer them on.
Sometimes, computers do things that confuse us. A screen might freeze, or a button might disappear. Instead of getting upset or shouting, we use the Hand-Up Rule. Simply raise your hand and wait for your teacher to see you. When the teacher arrives, use your Magic Words: 'Please' and 'Thank you.' For example, you can say, 'Teacher, could you please help me find the exit button?' This shows you are a patient and polite learner.
How to get help when the sound is too loud: 1. Stop clicking the mouse. 2. Raise your hand high and stay in your seat. 3. When the teacher comes over, say: 'Excuse me, Teacher, could you please help me turn the volume down?' 4. After they help, say: 'Thank you!'
Quick Check
What are the two 'Magic Words' you should use when asking for help?
Answer
Please and Thank you.
Even though we are looking at a screen, there is a real person on the other side! Whether we are typing a message or talking about a friend's digital drawing, we use Kind Words. Using words like 'Great job,' 'I like your colors,' or 'Nice try' makes our friends feel happy. We never use mean words or laugh if someone makes a mistake. Being a Digital Citizen means being just as nice on the computer as you are face-to-face.
Imagine your friend accidentally deletes their picture. Here is how to be a Digital Superhero: 1. Don't say 'Oh no, you messed up!' 2. Instead, say 'It's okay! I can help you draw it again.' 3. Ask the teacher for help together to see if you can find the 'Undo' button.
How many people should hold the mouse at the same time?
What should you do if you get stuck on a computer task?
It is important to use kind words when talking about a friend's work on the computer.
Review Tomorrow
In 24 hours, try to remember the 'One-Mouse Rule' and the two 'Magic Words' for asking for help.
Practice Activity
Next time you are at a computer with a friend, practice saying 'Your turn!' and handing them the mouse with a smile.