young kids and computers

[sometimesoon]

Hello,

I was wondering with this century being a lot different than others in terms of technology and all, would it be good to introduce kids to computers at an early age? I mean, there are some out there that say that putting a kid in front of a screen at an early age makes him socially retarded. Others say that it can help stimulate his brain. There is so much info out there it's a bit confusing.

Would putting my child in front of the computer at an early age hinder his mental growth? or would it help it?

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Danielle]

It depends how often you put him on the computer. Personally, I don't think computer usage is necessary at early ages. I used to teach computer classes at an elementary school and it seemed like a waste of time to have children below 3rd grade using computers. The children were better at playing mindless games than doing productive work and their penmanship suffered. As for my toddler, she goes on the computer once a week for about 5 minutes. I let her use the paint program to gain some fine motor skills with the mouse and I use MS Word to teach her new words.

So, point being, the computer is a useful tool if used wisely.

[NeverMarried]

Many researchers do not recommend that children under 3 years old use computers (e.g., Hohman, 1998). Computers simply do not match their learning style. Children younger than 3 learn through their bodies: their eyes, ears, mouths, hands, and legs. Although they may return over and over again to an activity, they are full of movement, changing focus frequently. Computers are not a good choice for the developmental skills these children are learning to master: crawling, walking, talking, and making friends.

[Amy]

Early introduction is good, but not to be used as a babysitter and nothing beats the old fashioned one on one for learning the basics. Whether we like it or not, our children are bieng introduced to a very technical world and it's our responsibility to make sure they are prepared.

[new2me]

I would stand strongly against introducing kids to computers at an early age. Heck, I would ban the use of calculators at an early age. I'm part of generation Y and I was introduced to calculators in grade school because I tested high in math tests and I can tell you I suffer greatly from early exposure. I can't do simple math in my head.

I think introducing kids to technology at an early age stunts their mental development because it makes them lazy. All they have to do is punch in stuff into a machine and it spits out a number. I think that kids need to go through all the tough calculations to gain not only a better understanding of what they are calculating, but also it helps in their overall development.

There was a recent study on college students and I don't remember the specifics, but the jist of the study was that a significant amount of college students can't calculate simple finances.

If I can help it, I'm going to make my kids do stuff the hard way. No spell checking programs, they have to use a dictionary, and NO calculators. It's hard these days because kindergartners are being taught how to use calculators and grade school kids are learning how to put together powerpoint presentations. Whatever happened to developing drawing skills and developing the artistic part of the brain?

[Melos]

I would have to say that introducing children to computers at an early age is not in itself harmful. Relying on computers and calculators is harmful. Overdoing anything is bad. I was shocked when my neice (3rd grade) brought home written instructions from her teacher to use a calculator on her math homework!

[La Marqueza]

I think introducing young kids to computers is a good idea. It helps them learn hand-eye coordination much like playing video games does. And as long as the programs they are going to are educational and fun for them then it's a boost to their development. However as with any tyoe of technological device I also think as a parent you have to be aware of what the kids are doing and for how long. An hour at the most several days a week should suffice.

[jaescafe]

I think that introducing computers to 5 years olds is a good thing also. Just a few small things to get them so they are not afraid of it, but limiting any game time I think is a must. Computers are a central point in almost any job nowadays and I think we can slowly prepare our children for the future in this way also.