Opening Programs on a Computer

On this page, kids will learn how to easily open programs on a computer using the Start Menu, desktop shortcuts, and the taskbar.

Knowing how to open programs is one of the first and most important computer skills for kids. By learning this, children become more confident when using a computer at home or at school. These simple steps work on most Windows computers and help kids explore learning apps, drawing tools, and games safely.

Using the Start Menu

The Start Menu is the main place to find all programs on a computer. Here’s how:

1. Click the Start button at the bottom-left of the screen.
2. Choose the program you want to open.
3. Click the program to run it.

Kids can open programs using the Start Menu. This example shows how to open Microsoft Paint.

Using Desktop Shortcuts

Some programs have icons on the desktop. To open them:

• Find the program icon on the desktop.
• Double-click the icon.

Some programs appear as icons on the desktop. To open them, kids can double-click the icon.

Using the Taskbar

Programs that are often used usually appear on the taskbar. To open them:

• Look for the program icon on the taskbar.
• Click the icon to open the program.

Programs pinned on the taskbar can be opened with one click. This example shows how to open WordPad.

In real classes, kids will practice opening programs directly on a computer so they can remember each step easily.

This lesson is part of the TTC Kids Computer Basics series, designed to help children learn essential computer skills step by step.