Tablets & Technology: The good, the bad & things you didn't think of

As we all know, technology has taken on the world by storm. At some point, most of us have been guilty of burying ourselves in phones or tablets, and ignoring the outside surroundings. While us as adults can still separate real life from our social media or game induced fog, it’s a little more difficult for kids. It is a common scene these days. Kids forgetting the outdoors or playing with friends and instead spending hour after hour in front of the tv, video games, or with their tablet. There is nothing wrong with kids engaging in these activities, as it is now the norm and typically fun for them. However, consuming time and energy with something that poses no interaction, effort, or functional skill, can be detrimental for development. That being said, there are obviously the positive effects technology has had on society and for today’s kids. Computers for instance, have made researching, gathering information and school work in general much easier. Books and reading are also much more accessible and finding assistance to difficult math problems are just a click away. There is a place for technology in our lives, but balance is key, especially for the younger generations who know nothing else.

Here are a few hints as to how to accomplish this:

• Use ipad or computer time as a reward (besides school work, of course)

• Set a timer to limit access. Then, send them off to find a board game, friends, or outdoors

• Make being outdoors or with friends more enticing. Find outside games and activities, local parks/playgrounds, or have a picnic. 

• Enroll your kids in other after school activities (many are free). 

• Find tablet applications and games that promote learning, increasing vocabulary, and utilization of basic concepts (numbers, colors, letters, math, interactive books, music, etc.)

• Find applications that require some sort of effort like listening skills or following directions. There are even ones out there that can converse with the player. 

• Video’s: We’ve all been there. It starts with one funny or cute animal video and before we know it, its midnight and we’ve done nothing else for hours. Kids love this stuff too, and of course it shouldn’t be completely eliminated. But, time limits could be set. 

• Cause and effect applications are always good for early learners 

We have mentioned before, how important language development is and also how early it starts. Little ones are constantly absorbing information and it is imperative to expose them to quality learning. As said, there is a place for technology and it is benefits. It is an amazing tool that we are fortunate to have access too. But, it is also necessary to remember:

• One of the most valuable things you can give a child, is your time. Play with them. Talk to them. Pretend and imagine with them. Most importantly, pay attention to them. 

• Interaction and socialization are an integral part of growing and developing. Don’t inhibit this growth by sticking children in front of a TV every waking minute. (Yes, we know there are times where it is necessary. How else are you going to get laundry or dinner done?!)

• Communication starts at birth (or even before). Crying? Yeah, it’s a form of communicating. So, every second in a child’s life, is teachable. Take advantage of it.