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Typing for second graders

Last updated · 3 min read

Start home row →Play Key HopKids typing test

Second grade is when real touch typing can begin for many children. Hands are big enough for the home row, reading supports short words, and good habits now prevent years of hunt-and-peck.

Use this with the K–2 typing curriculum. Younger? See first grade or kindergarten. Ready for more? Continue into the grades 3–5 typing curriculum.

6-week home-row start

  1. Weeks 1–2: F and J, then D and K, S and L.
  2. Week 3: A and ;, G and H.
  3. Weeks 4–5: Home-row words and Home Row Mastery if fingers stay on home.
  4. Week 6: Light review + kids typing test for a growth snapshot.

After each lesson, one game: Key Hop, Balloon Pop or Falling Words on Easy.

Rules that matter more than WPM

  1. Accuracy and correct fingers beat speed.
  2. Eyes on the screen; chart beside the monitor, not eyes on hands.
  3. Short sessions; stop while it is still fun.
  4. Celebrate stars and personal bests, not class rankings.

Setup checklist

  • Physical keyboard (Chromebook/laptop fine; add a keyboard to a tablet)
  • Chair height so elbows are near the keyboard
  • Printable finger chart taped up
  • Sound on if clicks help; off if they distract (header sound switch)

Keep going

When home-row words feel easy, add the Top Row unit and browse more ideas in typing for kids and how to teach typing.

Frequently asked questions

Is second grade a good age to start touch typing?

Yes for many kids. Around ages 7–8, hands usually reach the home row and kids can read simple words. US Common Core first mentions keyboarding in third grade, so second grade is a strong head start.

How should second graders practice each week?

Aim for 10–15 minutes, three or four times a week: one home-row lesson, then a short kids game as a reward.

What if they still peek at the keys?

Almost every beginner does. Point to the on-screen hands, keep a finger chart beside the screen, and praise eyes-up moments more than raw speed.

When do we add the top row?

After the home-row unit feels steady—usually a few weeks. Then follow Top Row lessons. The grades 3–5 curriculum continues from there.