Parents concerned their children are spending too much time on computer games and not enough on computer education now have a place where their children can have fun on computers and learn about them, too.
FUTUREKIDS, a worldwide leader in computer education for children has opened a franchise at 101 S. State (next to ShopKo). FUTUREKIDS' goal is to "help children master their world by mastering the power of computers."Now, children who love the detail of video games can also learn how they are created and how computers work - from the hardware to the keyboard.
"Computer literacy is the main focus of our curriculum," said owner Ed Clayson. "We cover a wide range of content and skill development such as keyboarding and word processing, computer-assisted math and reading, database management, animation, robotics and a lot more."
Clayson says children will dissect the computer and learn about the hardware; open discs and discuss storage of information. They will also be taught how to apply what they've learned. For instance, when they learn about desktop publishing, students will have the opportunity to actually publish a class newspaper.
The classes, which are limited to four students each, cover a wide range of content and skill development. Clayson also says children don't have to have a computer in their home to participate in the classes.
"About half of my students have computers in their homes and their parents work in the computer industry," Clayson said. "But, the other half's parents have no computer background and are frustrated with their lack of oppor-tunity and want to make sure their kids have that."
Similar to music or dance lessons, children attend class once a week for a half-hour to one hour. The cost ranges from $39 to $59 per month depending on the age of the student and the length of time spent. Classes are based around a theme each month and are offered to children ages 3 to 13.
"We also do special events, like birthday parties," Clayson said. "Kids come here, play on the computer games, have educational activities and even make T-shirt designs on the computers."
FUTUREKIDS, which has 1,200 outlets worldwide, is also opening a Sandy franchise in June and will begin adult classes at the Orem location this month. The public is invited to visit during a three-day open house, Thursday through Saturday, March 4-6.
For more information, call Clayson at FUTUREKIDS, 226-1155.