Learn about technology and modern childhood

Which one gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling: a child cuddling a teddy bear or a child using a smart phone? Many of us feel discomfort around the idea of children engaging with technology. But we can’t deny that phones, tablets, computers, and the Internet have become unavoidable parts of everyday life. Rather than demonize the devices, let’s look clearly at how children engage with technology and what parents and caregivers can do to make those experiences safe and meaningful. Babies can view and focus on images or videos on a screen from a very young age. Though they might not fully understand what’s going on, babies and toddlers can participate in video calls by watching faces and listening to human voices. These experiences become meaningful within the context of family relationships. By the time children are toddlers, they can operate some technology by themselves. They can hold a tablet, press large buttons, and swipe across the screen. The best media for children encourages active participation. Quality apps and games create connections between the screen and the real world and encourage active and creative play. But watch out: Little ones don’t yet understand that phones and tablets are fragile. It’s normal for toddlers to drop or even throw a device. Common sense tells us that it’s not a good idea for a child to sit in front of a screen for hours on end. But experts say that it’s the quality of screen time and not the quantity that really matters. By preschool age, children can tap, swipe, and trace on a touch screen, turn devices on and off, and engage in playful virtual experiences. Digital learning sessions should be kept short and sweet: preschoolers can listen to a story, participate in a sing-along, or engage in short discussions. Though it’s easy to be wowed by all the new gadgets and games for children, it’s important for caregivers to think carefully about what role they want technology to play in their family and set limits accordingly. Grade school and primary school students are learning that the world beyond the home is a complicated place. Today, technology is a big part of all the new things children are exploring. Grade schoolers are developing the skills to use a keyboard, talk to digital assistants, play online games, and send texts and emails. Many school age children are eager to get their first phone. When kids have access to messaging and the internet, media literacy becomes extremely important. This is the ability to understand all different kinds of media and use it safely and productively. Parents and caregivers can teach responsible online habits by helping children recognize advertising, avoid unhealthy influences, and identify scams. About 95% of teens in the United States have access to a smartphone, and many report that they’re online “almost constantly.” Pre-teens and teens are physically and cognitively able to do pretty much anything adults can with technology, but it’s important to keep in mind that adolescents are more likely than adults to act on impulse and engage in risky behavior—both in the real world and online. Learning media literacy is a top priority for teens navigating social media as they constantly encounter memes, phishing, and trolls. The challenge is developing a positive digital footprint and acting as responsible digital citizens. Teens can be encouraged to use technology to showcase their talents, connect with people they admire, or get involved in important causes. Technology is everywhere, and it’s always changing. Sometimes, it seems like the children are ahead of adults in learning to use new tech innovations. But kids and teens still need adult guidance and support. Navigating the digital world can feel scary sometimes, but we can all learn to try new things and make smart decisions together.