As parents, it will be normal for us to ponder how technology may impact our children’s growth. Today, our children are exposed to various smart devices including smartphones, tablets, or even laptops from an early age. These devices may be used in their daily lives, for them to learn through the use of it or be entertained by the information in them.
Positive Impact of Technology on Children:
Amplify Learning Opportunities:
The use of educational applications or games will allow the child to view learning as being fun and interactive as compared to the usual books and practice papers. Today, many applications provide a learning platform for children to learn and play at the same time. These may provide a different learning experience from those using the manual paper and pen method. Not only that, parents will no longer need to go down to the nearest bookstore to get their resources as it is widely available through their phones or smart devices. As it is easy to access, schools nowadays can tap into the technology market to source out for remote learning opportunities if there is any need such as when the COVID-19 strikes or any major outbreaks that may force the schools to be closed. For children who love expressing themselves through music or art, there are also platforms for them to develop their skills in digital art or music. The endless amount of applications that can be used to develop their skills can be something they can look into.
Evolution of Digital Literacy:
With these tools at our disposal, we are preparing our children for what is coming in the future. With the digitalization of the school and academic structures such as taking an exam online or remotely, parents will be sure that their children are familiar with the environment that they are in. Not only in the academic setting but also helping them prepare for professional environments such as when they are ready to join the workforce in the future. With industries reaching out to technology to refresh their environment and remove redundant work, there will be more jobs that will require the use of technology. Children would also be able to develop their skills such as problem-solving skills through codings or the platforms they use. It will also allow them to be savvy with digital communications when they communicate with their teachers or friends through the platforms.
Keeps them connected:
The right use of technology will allow the children to learn how to communicate with their parents, teachers or friends even when they are not close. Through platforms like social media or the use of messaging applications such as ‘WhatsApp’ which is widely used, children would be able to share where they are or even post about their daily activities. With these platforms available for them it will be easier for them to find people who may have the same interests as them or be able to create a group to further increase their knowledge together.
Can also be of benefit to your pets!
Of course, there are always downsides to using technology with our children. Most of the things in life have their downsides. As parents, we must monitor our children’s usage of their devices. Establish rules with them such as when to use their devices or how long they can use them during their free time. Educating them about safe practices and the importance of privacy is also crucial as there tend to be people who are out to be a menace in our lives(scammers!). Till then, hope you increase a byte!
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