As I was mapping out another Sunday nature walk location for my kids, my son Logan, watched over my shoulder, and seemed to take great interest in watching me “fly” around on the computer screen.
I took some time to show him some of the buildings and places that he was familiar with, such as the grocery store and daycare, as well as his sister’s elementary school.
From there, I showed him he could also fly around the Solar System, the Moon as well as Mars!
His eyes were so large, and I think he forgot to blink, as he continued to watch the screen with amazement!
As we continued to “fly” around on Google Earth, I started to show him the controls for how to move around the screen.
Within seconds he was grabbing the mouse from my hand and was “flying” on his own!
For the next hour or so, he was flying around Chester County, and giggling very happily during his new adventures.
So to all the parents out there with young kids, I would strongly recommend downloading Google Earth, which is free, and begin to teach your child the local spots so that they can become familiar with their surroundings.
Once they have the basic navigational skills, take a step back and let them explore the world on the screen in front of them.
Not only is it fun for the kids, but they will also begin to start to understand the relationships of “things” around them.
If you really want to let them explore, check out and show them the “Flight Simulator” which can be found under the Tools menu.
This is also a great activity for a rainy day!
