Many Early Childhood research states that technology definitely has its benefits in the development of young children. I have also come to learn and believe the above. Using technology has become a part of childrens' learning environment. Educational software helps children learn in a creative ways, it develops their logical and critical thinking. However, there are also downsides to using technology for the young children. Children may spend so much time on the computer that they might miss the simple pleasures of childhood. Children would lack physical activity, lose out on social interaction and may even come across harmful content that are easily accessible through the internet these days.
In my opinion, the possible answer to the above question is that there must be a balance. And with the balance, it largely focuses on children having the right supervision. This is to ensure that there is specific and limited usage (in respect of time) and it has to be supervised to make certain that children are not being exposed to inappropriate and harmful content. At the same time, in trying to minimise the risks of over exposure to technology, children should not be deprived from the potential benefits which they would reap from usage of computers and technology. An article from The Future of Children talks about the many benefits and risks of technology to young children, and how to deal with these conflicting issues. An interesting read.
In the end, the choice is ours. By weighing the benefits and the costs wisely, and by ascertaining and setting approprite limits, we hope to find the right equation in determining the answer to the above question.
The search continues...
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