When it comes to computer literacy, it seems it can never be too early to start. International Business Machines and Little Tikes, a subsidiary of Rubbermaid best known for its ride-along toys for toddlers, will today unveil a jointly developed computer system for three- to seven-year-olds.

The all-in-one unit includes a child-sized desk and bench seat with a built-in computer system.

IBM has thrown out its traditionally conservative palate of greys and black in favour of bright yellow and purple plastic with just a touch of its signature blue.

Little Tikes, which will distribute and market the Young Explorer to pre-schools and elementary schools, designed the unit with young children and their teachers in mind.

In contrast to standard PCs, which typically have a mess of wires coming out of the back of the machine, all wiring is contained and hidden. So too is the actual computer; ensuring that young inquiring minds do not have too much opportunity to explore the wonders of disk drives and other delicate equipment.

Software from IBM's Edmark subsidiary is designed to enable children to start up programs such as Millie's Math House and Bailey's Book House with the click of a mouse.

Pre-school teachers, who sometimes are less enthusiastic about technology than their charges, are also assured that the system will work at the press of a button without them needing to take computer courses.

The system, which goes on sale in North America this summer at a price of $2,300 (£1,667), is aimed mainly at nursery schools and primary schools. For IBM, the project is not all fun and games. In the US education market Apple Computer remains the market leader. By taking a new approach IBM aims to overtake its competitors.