As a grandmother and an advocate for technology, I believe that introducing children and grandchildren to technology at a young age is important for them to succeed in the future.
Looking at my granddaughter grow
As a PdD. and researcher in social work for over 20 years, I have seen the importance of technology help in child development and become vital to their success. It is no surprise that I introduced my own children from a young age. It is due to this introduction that I now see my children using every device with ease and confidence. Even my granddaughter does not shy away from using technology. It helps open her mind, promotes school readiness, cognitive development, language and problem-solving skills. Not to forget ease of social interaction. There are a lot more opportunities for children who are exposed hi tech at an early age.
However, simply giving your children a tablet, or computer and leaving them to do as they please might not be the best way to show them it’s value. It is important to consider the age of your child before you introduce them to technology. But if you’re curious about the benefits, think about the following advantages:
Understanding Technology
The always connected world is normal to all of us. The objects that we used moved from bulky desktops down to handhelds like iPads, smartphones, and tablets. This made technology easy for more and more people. Our children develop the interests in these mobile devices from a young age. Their motor skills and spatial sense of how to operate seems like second nature. They might seem clumsy at times, but their inquisitive natures make them determined to learn.
It is true we must use this new science as a tool. We cannot be scared of it. By ensuring that we teach our children how to use the devices and resources responsibly, they themselves gain the ability to use technology in an advantageous way. My five year old uses all forms of technology around the house. She uses our Roku, tablets, and phones. She can find her games and interacts with them readily.
As parents, we must take part in this learning to ensure that our children are not completely locked off into their virtual worlds.
Technology and Education
As Bill Gates says, “Technology is just a tool. In terms of getting the kids working together and motivating them, the teacher is most important.”
Technology reveals educational content, games, and more. There are many benefits of using apps and games to help your children grow. Professor Lydia Plowman, Professor at Edinburgh Univeristy speaks about support and independent play for the child to learn actively.
Combining games with education is perfect as kids can relate. Wouldn’t you like to learn something new while having fun? .
Technology as a Creative Outlet
Spelling, numbers, and letters are not the only advantage that comes from technology applications for children. In fact, mobile devices, smartphones, and computers give children an outlet to be creative.
Although my son is no longer a child, I see him play games like Cities Skylines and Minecraft which require a huge amount of attention to detail, spatial recognition, and creativity. Sometimes my 5 year old grandaughter plays with him and I can hear them argue over what makes something prettier, more functional and just downright nicer.
While these games are far more advanced, there are other apps like drawing apps where kids can express their inner creative genius. Technology is a great outlet for your little one to be the next…. well…. “Little Einstein”.
Don’t forget smartphones, tablets, and iPads give children access to videos where they can learn and grow along with the characters while learning valuable lessons and skills.
Although letting your children use technology at an early age can seem scary, it is the sharing of information that is key to their success. Make sure to supervise for content and time. I am always happy to hear my granddaughter singing a song or repeating some random fact. It shows that the future for education with technology is quite bright.
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