UI usability for 4 year old (was Re: Call for Papers/Talks/Ideas!)

[K. K. Subramaniam]

On Sunday 23 March 2008 3:59:31 am John R.Hogerhuis wrote:
> .. (actually it's not all that pleasant for me
> either given the button placement below the trackpad). Something modal or
> pressure based would be better. If a key on the keyboard held down were the
> "up/down" button that would be resolution of the dexterity issue. Though,
> some thought would need to be given to make this "discoverable."
It is tough for young children to use trackpad like a mouse - with a single 
hand. Using it bi-manually with two index fingers is not only easier but also 
prepares them for typing on the keyboard later. The child can use one index 
finger (say right) on the trackpad and the other index finger (say left) to 
click buttons. Older children can use index fingers for the trackpad and 
thumbs for the buttons.

Subbu