KidSmart is a global IBM community initiative that enables preschools and kindergartens to use the latest technology to integrate interactive teaching and learning activities into the preschool curriculum.

“Technological literacy is arguably becoming as important as the ability to read, write and do maths,” said Clare Wells, CEO of New Zealand Kindergartens.

“IBM’s KidSmart programme is an invaluable tool to help preschools around New Zealand build essential IT skills in our youngest learners.”

The centrepiece of the KidSmart Early Learning Programme is the ‘Young Explorer’, a computer equipped with award-winning educational software and housed in colourful ‘childproof’ desk furniture.

In the last five years, IBM New Zealand has donated more than 300 of these units to New Zealand’s less-privileged kindergartens, preschools and early childhood centres, giving more than 20,000 Kiwi children the opportunity to experiment with information technology and incorporate it into their learning.

Donations have been made as far north as Kaitaia and as far south as Invercargill and are targeted at kindergartens, preschools and early childhood centres in lower decile areas where children are less likely to have access to computers at home.

Through a partnership with City of Manukau Education Trust (COMET), IBM has donated 30 KidSmart units to Pasifika childcare centres in South Auckland.

IBM New Zealand has also trained more than 700 early childhood teachers in New Zealand in how to use the latest technology to integrate interactive teaching and learning activities into the preschool curriculum.

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