NASHUA -- Students at the Nashua Children's Home received an early Christmas gift on Monday, which resulted in many smiles and a debt of gratitude. Amazon donated 30 Kindles to the students and staff at the Nashua Children's Home, in addition to a $2,500 gift certificate to upload content onto the handheld electronic readers.

"I am very excited. I can't wait to use this," said an enthusiastic Codie Decker, 12. "I've never used a tablet before."

Decker wasn't alone.

Several of the students said this was their first time experimenting with an electronic tablet and thrilled with the opportunity. The Nashua Children's Home currently has 22 students in grades one through eight.

"We are so grateful for this gift, and I know the kids are really going to appreciate this," said Joanne Dion, educational director at the school.

"Technology is such an important part of our lives, and it is crucial for us to provide these technology tools to our students."

Representatives from Amazon were present for the donation, helping the students learn how to set up the Kindle devices.

"We have been waiting anxiously for this day to come," said Greg Boyle, Amazon fulfillment center general manager in Nashua. "Our objective is about embracing the possibilities, and we believe that technology can help do that, and ultimately help promote reading."

By introducing children to electronic reading tables such as the Kindle, Boyle said it encourages a lifelong commitment to reading. It also helps to make books readily available to read wherever or whenever, he said.

"We view the Kindle as an exceptional tool for teachers," added Boyle.

Dion agreed, saying the Kindles will provide such an advantage to not only the students, but the staff at the Nashua Children's Home as well.

"Some of these kids have had some gaps in their education," acknowledged Dion, explaining whatever tools or technology can help fill some of those gaps will be embraced.

Casey Newcomb, 13, who said he was anxious to get his hands on the Kindle, quickly navigated his way through the settings as he searched for his first book to read.

On Tuesday, Amazon will be donating 80 more Kindles to students at Northstar Academy in Henrico, Va., as part of its ongoing effort to promote and foster the use of technology in the classroom.

khoughton@newstote.com