Early key to ABC

Children who use computers from an early age better recognise the alphabet, research has found.

The study of more than 1500 four-year-olds by Melbourne-based Murdoch Institute of Children's Research revealed regular preschool computer use meant they were more likely to know their ABC.

"There are things you have to learn about the keyboard," Professor Sheena Reilly said. "In order to make a game work, you need to know letters."

But she warned the computer should not replace hands-on learning and regular book work.