Technology Interaction for Children & Families - Newsletter

Technology is something that is not safe for all users, in which worries parents in allowing their child to take part in a virtual world. When parents are to introduce technology to their child/children they should focus on the safety and how it can be a safe environment in a virtual world (CDC).

Prior to introducing technology Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers some resources and strategies that can be used for educators and parents:

1.       Talk to you child.

·         This is like a parent asking their child where they are headed, it can be used in the same context while the child is surfing online.

2.       Develop Rules.

·         Create rules, restrictions, safety, and behaviours while using any source of media technology.

3.       Explore the Internet.

·         Visit, explore and access sites that are frequently use by the child to assess the pros and cons.

4.       Talk with others.

·         Communicate with other parents/educators of how they address technology to their child.

5.       Connect with the school

·         Be involved and partnered with the school to engage in school policies on electronics and resources available to support it.

6.       Educate yourself.

·         Be informed about new devices, websites, and media. Always communicate with your child and explore technology yourself, to gain the most understanding what the child is engaging in.

For more information on technology interactions for children and families, View PDF (Click Here). This PDF will lead you to a newsletter talking a bit more about the benefits of technology for young children. Below are interactive links to a few applications that can be accessed on mobile devices. 

Active Links from the Newsletter: 

Math:

Math training for kids (4 years +) – Android, Google Play
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.divmob.eastermath.game.GameActivity&hl=en

Counting Caterpillars (2 ½ years +) – Apple, iTunes

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/counting-caterpillar/id468556132?mt=8

Language:

Stories by Gus on the go, multi-languages – Apple, iTunes.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/learn-spanish-stories-by-gus/id1071230980?mt=8&utm_campaign=elearningindustry.com&utm_source=%2F10-best-language-learning-apps-for-kids&utm_medium=link

References 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Kids and technology: Tips for parents in a high-tech world. CDC. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/media/subtopic/matte/pdf/cdcelectronicregression.pdf