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Kids and technology – it’s either a match made in heaven or a nightmare for parents.
Or a bit of both. No matter how you look at it, technology is not something we’re going to get rid of any time soon. It’s all about balance as this independent school in North London will attest.
We use it in almost everything we do. A visit to the shops, a game with friends, getting fit, staying fit, dating, socialising and working – it’s woven inextricably through the entire fabric of our adult lives.
Therefore, it’s also woven through the lives of our children.
For small children, only a little is needed – whilst they’re still developing physically and intellectually, children are best exploring the world in real-time. Not via a computer screen. Obviously, we need balance – and it’s important for children to learn how to use technology safely so we should definitely be teaching our children how things work.
There are pros and cons to technology so let’s take a look at some of them as a way of unpacking the subject and how best to manage it.
Pros of technology for kids
- Educational – so many games and websites which help children with numeracy, literacy and other subjects are available for free online
- Typing – as they become more comfortable with a keyboard, many children develop fantastic typing skills
- Socialising – this has proven to be especially true during Covid-19 and children have been able to enjoy playdates and get-togethers which would have been impossible twenty years ago
- Business opportunities – ok, it’s not all children who are capable of becoming digital entrepreneurs, but some certainly can and have set up extremely profitable businesses online
Cons of technology for kids
- Addictive – there’s no doubt about it, surfing the internet is extremely addictive – there’s so much to look at
- Lack of fresh air – and exercise – if children are sitting in front of a screen for too long, many begin to lose interest in outdoor pursuits
- Predators – there are some risks to surfing the internet and it’s not always possible to watch older children’s activity effectively
- Inappropriate websites – even with blockers on your home internet, a technically gifted child may still access inappropriate content
So, it’s with all of this in mind that we still struggle to find the right balance. Of course, kids should have access to the internet, indeed for those who do not have access, it is seen as a serious social disadvantage. But for most families it’s about balance. Creating rules and guidelines around internet usage as well as monitoring your child’s use of it. Keep your children safe – watch and learn. See which websites they like the best and keep an eye on their social media too.
