These days, when you hear the word "virtual school," you're probably thinking about the growth in online universities or virtual high schools. For some reason, we tend to think that older students--as well as employees in the workforce--are best equipped to handle online coursework and computer technology.

This is backwards. Young people, those intrepid digital natives who grew up on the Internet, are the ideal users of virtual learning environments. To them, a Google search isn't research but just another fun game.

School administrators are taking notice. According to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, for the first time this year, five-year-olds entering public school  can get a complete, Internet-based education without leaving home. These full-time virtual school programs are available to kindergarten-age children in Florida's Broward and Palm Beach counties. 

In 2008, some two million U.S. secondary students were enrolled in online-learning or "blended" programs, which include face-to-face and e-learning instruction. In 2000, online enrollment totaled only 50,000 students, according to the Department of Education. Educadium expects an increasing number will be kindergarten and primary school students. Our EasyCampus virtual school builder can even be used by online daycare providers.

The online growth is happening all across the country. In Kansas, the Lawrence Virtual School has added nearly 150 new students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

So forget the mad dash to catch the school bus. Whether homeschooled or enrolled in a virtual school program, kids are going to be spending more time around the house. That's bittersweet news to a lot of parents.