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Chapter 3: Fixing Simple Problems

Sometimes a computer does not work. That is okay!

Problems happen to everyone. Even grown-ups.

Take a deep breath. Stay calm.

Most problems are easy to fix. You can help!

The first thing to check is the cord.

A computer needs power. The cord brings the power in.

If the cord falls out, the computer is unplugged unplugged: When a cord is not connected, so no power gets in. .

Look at the cord. Is it in the wall? Is it in the computer?

Do not push cords in by yourself. Ask a grown-up to help.

Next, check the power button.

Look for a little light. A light means it is on.

No light? The computer may be off.

Point to the button. Ask a grown-up to turn it on.

Sometimes the screen is stuck. Nothing moves.

This is called frozen frozen: When the screen is stuck and nothing moves. .

When a computer is frozen, the mouse will not move. The buttons will not work.

Do not press lots of keys fast. That will not help.

Just stay calm and get a grown-up.

When you ask for help, use clear words.

Tell the grown-up what you see. You can say that the screen is black. You can say that the mouse will not move. You can say that the computer will not turn on.

Clear words help the grown-up fix it fast. You are a great helper!


📖 The Mouse Won't Move!

Mia was drawing a cat on the computer.

Then the mouse would not move. The cat stopped too!

Mia felt worried. But she took a big breath. “Problems are okay,” she said.

She looked at the screen. Nothing was moving. It was frozen.

Mia did not press lots of keys. She raised her hand.

“Ms. Lee, the mouse will not move. The screen is stuck,” she said.

Ms. Lee smiled. “Great words, Mia! Let me help.” Soon the cat was back!


  1. What is the first thing you can check when a computer will not turn on?
  2. What does “frozen” mean?
  3. Who should you ask when you need help?

You finished Meet Your Computer! Wow!

You can name the parts you can see and touch. You know that hardware is what you touch, and software is what runs inside. And now you can stay calm and use clear words to describe a problem.

You are a smart, kind computer helper. Great job! 🎉