Computers have become part of our life, and internet makes the world small for us, just a click away from tons of information.
But at what age children can benefit for using computers? Use of computers should be within some limits, as beside learning it can be an addiction for kids also. Recently I came across a website which was about Internet addiction and as the name of the site shows:”Mind prison: Internet addiction disorder” I was quite surprised to read the first page of the site. I am just giving few lines here:
Internet Addiction Disorder is a speculated mental disorder made and introduced by Ivan Goldberg, M.D., in 1995. It is an addiction that closely parallels the other addictions such as drug and pathological gambling addiction and is potentially just as damaging. The main aim of this site is to help it’s readers to be better equipped in identifying the symptoms and causes of IAD and how to prevent and treat it.
Addiction might be for games, social interaction sites etc. But better to check the site for more useful information:
Mind prison,Internet addiction disorder
And now I am here with an article from National Association for the education of young children, which is world’s largest organization working on behalf of young children with nearly 100,0000 members, dedicated to improve the well-being of all young children from birth to age 8. So as a parent or teacher you can get tons of information at the site.
Site Link: NAEY
Computers and Young Children
* Use computers for short periods of time (10-20 minutes).
A long period in front of any screen-a computer, television, or a video game-is time away from other, more valuable activities.
* Sit with the child, or encourage children to work in pairs.
Use children’s computer time to improve their social and language skills. *They can learn rules of fairness; have opportunities to become “experts” with a program or game, and practice taking turns. They may also learn new words as they explain what they are doing and teach others how to use the computer.
* Choose software and Web sites that are “open-ended,” age-appropriate, and encourage pro social values. Open-ended software that encourages creativity, language skills, early reading skills, and problem solving can benefit 3- to 5-year-olds.
* Computer games that show killing and destruction as fun or as an acceptable way to solve problems can be harmful. Read reviews of the software or try it out before buying it. Is it suitable for young children?
* Extend learning from the computer—at home or in preschool.
Extending learning means that you apply the lessons learned at the computer to other activities. Housekeeping; playing games; identifying shapes, letters, or numbers; or writing and acting out stories are some examples of activities that can help reinforce what children are learning at the computer.
* Put the computer in a public area.
Make it part of a learning center, or put it in a playroom or in the kitchen. When the computer is near you, it’s easier to see how children are using it. It’s also easier to make computer use part of other activities.
* Be sure that you know the content of the software or Web site first!
If you are familiar with the software, you will be able to answer questions and suggest activities that reinforce what children are learning on and off the computer.
* Monitor children’s computer use.
When young children use a computer, an adult should be nearby. Try to avoid telling the children what to do next, but be available to help them figure out what to do.
Some more links about young children and computers.
* Technology & Young Children
* Technology in Early Childhood Education: Finding the Balance
* 2006 Notable Computer Software for Children
* Resources on TV, Computers, and Video Games—How Much Is Too Much?
An excellent Pdf report:
* Examining Some Common Myths About Computer Use in the Early Years