Technology is a huge part of our world today. Cell phones,
computers, iPads, tablets, and so much more. When you think technology, you
probably don’t think children in the same sentence. Children see their parents
on their phones or computers and are curious. Most children do not need to be
taught how to use technology, especially in this day and age. They are exposed
to technology in many aspects of their daily life. Knowing how to navigate and
use technology just becomes second nature. There are so many forms of
technology that are made for children and others can be adapted for children’s
use. Allow your child to experiment while offering support. Let them type an
“email” on your computer or text on your phone. Let them navigate the iPad to
find the game they want to play. They may need a little help at first but they
will figure it out in no time. There are also many apps that can be educational
for children. Family Education lists the top 21 free apps for young children.
Here are some you could try:
·
LumiKids (ages 2+)
·
Color Band (ages 3+)
·
Phonics Ninja (ages 4+)
·
Todo Math (ages 5+)
·
Vocabulary Spelling City (ages 6+)
Besides apps on a phone or tablet, there are other ways to
incorporate technology into your child’s life. There are toys available for
all ages and abilities. Fischer Price, Leap Frog and V Tech are some common
brands that have technology toys. Parents.com lists some of the Best
Educational Electronic Toys. Check out the list here- http://www.parenting.com/gallery/educational-electronic-toys.
Some people argue that too much technology is bad for
children. If you want to incorporate technology into your child’s life,
choosing the right technology is key. Dr. Michael Rich, director of the Center
on Media and Child Health at Children's Hospital Boston and Parents advisor, says “Technology itself
doesn’t create the problems. What matters is what we do with it.” He advises
parents to introduce quality media when children are ready, to help their
children think about what they see and hear, and to make sure time for
homework, family and friends, and physical activity is not being sacrificed.
Content is what makes technology educational. Technology for children should be
designed to fit with the developmental stages of children. Having a simple
storyline and relatable characters is also important for quality technology.
Of course, limiting technology use is also important. Technology should not take over your child’s life. Parents.com lists
5 take-charge rules for you to follow.
1.
Unplug yourself- Set an example for your child.
Limit your time on your cell phone or computer.
2.
Fire the electronic babysitter- Don’t just turn
on the TV when your child is bored or you need a break. If your child likes to
watch TV or play on the computer, try keeping their favorite technology in a
different room. Out of sight, out of mind.
3.
Develop healthy media habits early- Allowing
your child to watch a movie on a long car ride is fine but if you give them the
iPad every time you are in the car, they will get upset when they don’t get it.
Dr. Rich says to allow 20-30 minutes of screen time, twice a day is okay for
preschoolers and toddlers.
4.
Teach how technology can aid learning- Showing
your child how to use google to find information is great but don’t forget
about critical-thinking skills.
5.
Be skeptical- programs and software can say they
are educational but it doesn’t necessary mean that they are. If you have
questions, check out Common Sense Media or The Center on Media and Child Health
free-educational-apps-kids
A. (2015, July 14). Best Apps for Preschoolers. Retrieved February, 2017, from
http://www.parents.com/fun/entertainment/gadgets/best-apps-for-preschoolers/
A. (2016, September 07). Is Technology Good For Little Kids? Retrieved February, 2017, from
http://www.parents.com/fun/entertainment/gadgets/is-technology-good-for-little-kids/
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