There are a handful of technology skills your students MUST master before you can begin using technology for instruction.

The ability to confidently use a mouse / trackpad is an essential skill for PK-1 students.

Until your students know how to point, scroll, click and drag the mouse cursor, your ability to use technology will be limited.

Related Post: Use a manila folder to teach your students about their Chromebook!

Mouse vs. Trackpad (which is best?)

Personally, I don’t think it matters if students learn to use a “traditional” mouse or the trackpad on their Chromebook. I have seen PK-1 students use both effectively.

My advice: use what you have!

Teaching elementary students to use the mouse

There are quite a few mouse games and tutorials that can help your students master the mouse. I put together this choice board with some of my favorites.

Here are a few tips:

• The first three activities require reading and work best as a class activity.
• The “medium” mouse games are a good follow-up once you have done some class practice.
• The “hard” activities work well during choice-time or as a sponge activity.