Already we’ve allowed computer-skills training to edge out other skills previously considered to be vital, such as handwriting.

Sure, as one technology becomes common, other technologies lose their place in society. So keyboards have largely relegated paper & pen to the dustbin. But what if tablet PCs and other pen-driven devices actually bring about a renewed demand for handwriting and we’ve neglected to prepare the next generation to adequately cope in that environment? Basic written communication skills are still as important now in spite of all of our technological advances.

I’m a bit worried by the ever-increasing emphasis on making computer-use skills such a priority for kids. Seems to me that kids need time to just be kids – to learn how to interact with the real (not cyber) world around them and develop social skills.