Back to School

Now that the autumn term has started, it’s a good time to have a browse for some tech pieces that will help your kids with their school work…

Netbooks While all the world is going tablet crazy, these ultralight laptops are still the best way to get homework done, thanks to a real keyboard and access to important Windows software. Plus, they’re much cheaper than a full power laptop and built to take a few knocks.

Multifunction printer Whether its DIY class photos or hard copies of typed essays to be handed in, we haven’t entered the paperless age quite yet, so a printer is still essential. With a multifunction device, children can scan in other images or objects to use in their work.

Learning computer Your kids are never too young to learn about computers, but you might want to start them off with a dedicated learning device like the Leapfrog LeapPad. The touchscreen and pen mean they can discover how to write as well as complete maths and logical challenges.

Digital camera Like it or not, your children are growing up in a world surrounded by video and images. So why not teach them to make their own with a low cost digital camera capable of recording movies, like the Fujifilm Finepix AV10?

The best software Remember that the hardware is only half the equation. To get the best out of tech, you’ll need good applications too. Art programs and office suites are essential, but what about something to help brush up for on history, or a mock driving theory test too?

Net security Learning to use the web to find information out is a vital part of children’s education today, as is being able to communicate with common tools like email, instant messaging and social media. How do you make sure what they’re looking at online is appropriate though? There’s no substitute for sitting and working with your kids while they’re using the PC, but special filtering software which can block out age-related content can help.