Effect of Computer Use on Kids is Conference Topic

Computers and their effect on the minds and curiosity of growing children will be discussed at a conference Saturday aimed at parents and teachers.

Jane M. Healy, author and educational consultant from Vail, Colo., will be the keynote speaker at the event, called “Kids, Intelligence & Computers.” She will address the concept that computer use should be limited until age 9 so that kids can learn problem-solving skills the old-fashioned way, through hands-on experiences.

“She has a practical approach to computers,” said Joan Jaeckel, whose parental awareness group, Whole.org, is presenting the conference. “Of course, computers are in our homes and schools, and kids are techno-savvy. You just don’t want to make [computers] the salvation of mankind. It’s just a tool.”

There also will be a panel, including Paul Cummins, founder of the Crossroads School for the Arts and Sciences; Caprice Spencer Rothe, a clown and mime specialist; and Bill Rukeyser, coordinator of an information clearinghouse called Learning in the Real World.

The conference is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the 94th Aero Squadron, 16320 Raymer Ave., Van Nuys. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Attendance is limited to 300 people, so advance registration is recommended. Admission is $15, which does not include lunch. For information, call (818) 343-6410.