Typing has become a basic skill for children in today’s digital age. Whether they are doing school assignments, chatting with friends, or exploring educational websites, kids use keyboards every day. But how fast should they be able to type? What is a good typing speed for kids, especially at different ages? This article will help parents, teachers, and students understand the average typing speed for children, how to improve it, and how Ratatype can help.
Understanding Typing Speed
Before we talk about the average speed, it’s important to know what typing speed means. Typing speed is measured in Words Per Minute (WPM). This means how many words a person can type in one minute without many mistakes. The higher the number, the faster the typing speed.
Accuracy is also important. A student may type 60 words per minute, but if half of them are wrong, it’s not helpful. So, speed and accuracy should both be considered.
What is the Average Typing Speed for Kids?
Children usually learn how to type in school or through online typing lessons. Typing speed for kids depends on their age, grade level, and how much practice they’ve had. Here are some general typing speed ranges for kids:
| Age Group | Average Typing Speed (WPM) | Accuracy Goal |
|---|---|---|
| 6-7 years (Grade 1-2) | 5–10 WPM | 80% |
| 8-9 years (Grade 3-4) | 10–20 WPM | 85% |
| 10-11 years (Grade 5) | 20–30 WPM | 90% |
| 12 years and older (Grade 6+) | 30–40+ WPM | 95% |
As kids grow older and gain more experience with typing, their speed naturally increases.
What is the Average Typing Speed for a 12-Year-Old?
By the time kids reach 12 years old, they’ve likely had some exposure to typing in school or at home. On average, a 12-year-old should be able to type around 30 to 40 words per minute. Some may even type faster if they’ve had consistent practice.
However, this average is not fixed. It varies from child to child. Some students may reach 50 WPM or more, especially if they enjoy typing games or take formal typing lessons online. Others may need more time and practice.
If you want your child to reach or exceed this average, consistent practice is the key. Using tools like Ratatype, kids can take typing lessons, practice, and even earn a free typing certificate without any registration.
How to Know How Fast Your Students Should Be Typing
If you are a parent, teacher, or tutor, you might ask: How fast should my students be typing? The answer depends on their age, goals, and experience. Here’s how you can find out:
1. Use Online Typing Tests
One of the easiest ways to measure typing speed is by taking an online test. Ratatype provides a quick and easy typing test where kids can find out their WPM in just a few minutes.
2. Set Age-Appropriate Goals
Typing goals should match the student’s age and skill level. For example:
Beginner (6–9 years): Set goals like reaching 15 WPM with 85% accuracy.
Intermediate (10–12 years): Aim for 30 WPM with 90–95% accuracy.
Advanced (13+ years): Encourage 40+ WPM and excellent accuracy.
3. Track Progress Regularly
Students should take a typing test once a week to see improvement. This also keeps them motivated. Watching their speed and accuracy grow can be a great confidence booster.
4. Reward Progress
When students reach their typing goals, reward them with praise, certificates, or even simple digital badges. Ratatype offers free typing certificates, which kids love. They can print them or show them to friends and family.
Why Typing is an Essential Skill for Kids
Typing is not just about speed; it’s also about helping kids learn better and succeed in school and future careers. Here’s why it matters:
1. Better Performance in School
Typing helps kids finish homework faster. They can write essays, do research, and take online quizzes without wasting time. Fast typing saves time for learning other things.
2. Increased Confidence
Kids who type fast and accurately feel more confident using computers. This builds self-esteem and helps them stay ahead in digital learning environments.
3. Prepares for Future Jobs
Almost every job today requires some kind of computer use. Kids who type well now will have an advantage when they apply for jobs later in life.
How to Improve Kids’ Typing Speed
Improving typing speed is not difficult, but it needs consistent effort and the right tools. Here are the best ways to help your kids type faster and more accurately.
1. Start with Touch Typing
Touch typing means typing without looking at the keyboard. It uses all ten fingers and is the most efficient way to type. Ratatype teaches touch typing step-by-step in fun and interactive ways.
2. Use Typing Games
Kids love games. Turn learning into fun by using typing games that improve speed and accuracy. Many free games online are perfect for different age levels.
3. Practice Daily
Just 10–15 minutes of practice each day can make a huge difference. Daily typing builds muscle memory and helps kids become faster and more accurate.
4. Use the Right Tools
Don’t rely on just any typing platform. Use tested and trusted platforms like Ratatype that are designed for learners. It provides typing lessons, games, and tests – all free and without any registration.
The Role of Teachers and Parents in Typing Development
For Teachers:
Introduce typing as part of computer classes.
Set weekly typing goals.
Hold typing contests in class.
Use online platforms like Ratatype to monitor student progress.
For Parents:
Encourage kids to practice typing at home.
Let them explore typing games and lessons online.
Celebrate achievements like typing certificates and speed improvements.
How Ratatype Helps Kids Type Faster
Ratatype is one of the best free typing platforms for children and adults. It offers many features that make learning to type easy and fun.
✅ Free Certificate Without Registration
Unlike other platforms that ask you to sign up, Ratatype gives you a free typing certificate with no registration. Just take the test and download your result.
✅ Easy Typing Lessons
Step-by-step lessons help kids of all ages. Whether a child is a beginner or has some experience, Ratatype adjusts to their level.
✅ Fun Practice
From typing games to challenge tests, Ratatype keeps kids engaged and motivated to improve.
✅ Real-Time Feedback
Kids get instant results after each test. This helps them understand what they did well and where they need improvement.
10 Finger Typing: Teach Kids the Right Way
Most kids start typing using just two fingers. That’s fine at first, but it’s not the best long-term method. The best way is to use 10-finger typing. It may feel slow in the beginning, but it leads to high typing speed and fewer mistakes.
Teach your kids to:
Keep their fingers on the home row keys (ASDF for the left hand, JKL; for the right).
Use each finger for a specific group of keys.
Practice without looking at the keyboard.
Maintain good posture while typing.
Ratatype teaches this 10-finger method in a simple and kid-friendly way.
Tips to Make Typing Practice Fun for Kids
Typing doesn’t have to feel like homework. Here’s how to make it enjoyable:
Use rewards: Give small prizes for improvements.
Challenge friends: Kids can compete with classmates.
Use colorful keyboards: This helps identify key positions.
Track progress visually: Charts and graphs can show growth over time.
Common Typing Problems and How to Fix Them
❌ Looking at the Keyboard
Fix: Practice blind typing using touch typing methods taught on Ratatype.
❌ Wrong Finger Placement
Fix: Use the home row technique. Start slow and gradually increase speed.
❌ Inconsistent Practice
Fix: Set a daily 10-minute typing routine.
❌ Lack of Motivation
Fix: Use games, challenges, and free certificates from Ratatype to keep them interested.
Conclusion: Encourage Kids to Type Better, Not Just Faster
Typing is an important skill that all kids should learn early. Knowing the average typing speed for kids helps teachers and parents set realistic goals. A 12-year-old should aim for 30–40 WPM, but remember, accuracy and comfort are just as important.
Encourage your child or student to take regular typing tests on Ratatype, practice using fun tools, and build confidence with the free certificate – no registration needed.
By building this skill today, you’re giving them an edge for tomorrow.
