Our class is learning to type

Dear families,

This term our class is practicing touch typing for about ten minutes a day using an iPad app called Bumpy Keys. This letter explains what the children are doing, what the app is, and how you can keep it going at home if you would like to. Nothing is required.

What the children are practicing

Typing with the right finger on the right key, starting from the home row: the pointer fingers rest on the two keys with bumps, F and J. In the app, every key a child presses moves their racer along a track. Cartoon hands on the screen show which finger to use. Stars reward accuracy before speed: a level is passed at 80% accuracy, and three stars need 95% accuracy at the level's speed goal. For the youngest children (ages 4 to 5) there is a Little Racers mode with big keys, every letter spoken out loud and no speed goal. The app does not ask children to type fast; it asks them to use the same finger for the same key every time.

What you should know

To practice at home (optional)
1. On an iPad or Mac, scan the code or search Bumpy Keys in the App Store. bumpykeys.com
2. Choose your child's age band (4 to 5, 6 to 7 or 8 to 9) and let them pick a world.
3. Tap PLAY for the daily quest. A keyboard case or Bluetooth keyboard helps from about age six, but is not needed to start.

Your child may bring home a certificate when they finish home row, all 26 letters, or all 100 levels. If you have any questions about what we are doing in class, please get in touch. Questions about the app itself can go to [email protected].