I have two children (both under the age of 7) who wanted to use a computer. Hey I encouraged this… kids are starting earlier and earlier these days.
For the 3 year-old, I was able to re-use an old computer and load some old childrens software (that would run on my older computer). TIP: Try stores like Marshals or TJ MAX for childrens software on the cheap.
For my older child, I needed to set up our family computer to allow for more robust software. PROBLEM: How to I police the use of this shared computer? Well, we found an inexpensive software package that was used at our local library. It was the key software to making both computers kid-friendly while protecting the computer and files from wandering mouse clicks.
Now, I don’t find myself running back and forth between computers, solving login or CD-ROM issues. I know they can launch their programs and websites on their own and can’t break anything. Ah, serenity now!