Ask HN: Good first hacking computer for a 7yo

1•rich_sasha•1h ago

I'd like to get a computer for my 7yo son - something they can hack at, explore, learn to code, paint silly things. Might as well make it not Windows. What suggestions do people have?

The RPi integrated into a keyboard looks very cute. What is it like performance wise? Not that I need a lot, but would be good for a vanilla Linux distro to run effortlessly and lag free.

Equally, the form factor of a laptop is tempting. He can play with it at his desk, then come around and show me the result.

Any practical experiences and product recommendations very welcome!

Comments

PaulHoule•1h ago

I’m going to make the argument that anything with a web browser or that can run common software can expose kids to awful stuff. I’d say that I regret letting my son have his own computer too early.

In that case you might consider something like

https://www.commanderx16.com/

rich_sasha•1h ago

Good point.

Could I make the browser require sudo..?

beardyw•48m ago

Only if it's connected to the internet. You can connect, set things up, disconnect, and "forget" the ssid and password.

beardyw•46m ago

Oh, and if it's printed on the back of the router, change it!

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