Children and Technology

There are a lot of debates whether or not children should spend their time playing video games. While sitting in front of the TV all day is not healthy, and you should not use the TV as a babysitter, some educational games and game systems like Nintendo Wii are actually quite healthy for children.

I believe the younger you start introducing educational things to your children, the faster they will start learning. Even if a child is not really old enough to really understand educational video games, or TV shows, the sounds and pictures that they see will help to stimulate the brain.

Yes it is important that we sit down with our children and teach them. We should bond with them, but I actually think that Dora and Elmo can teach them a lot also. There are so many different types of games and educational toys out there now, so there is something for all children! Children respond great to these characters and there are so many different educational children shows to choose from.

I started introducing these types of shows and games to my child at an early age. I even allowed her to play with pencils and crayons a lot earlier than I think most parents would, but I feel it has paid off. She is eight now and loves to draw and write. Most things I buy for her now have to do with arts and crafts or writing materials. She also loves to read and enjoys school. While all kids are different and develop at different ages, I feel it does not hurt to expose your children to learning.

Video games have come a long way since I was a kid. I played Atari and Super Mario brothers growing up, but most of my time was spent outdoors. I do see the concern with children sitting in front of the TV all day and playing their X box or Play Station. For one it gives the body no physical exercise and second, most of the games these kids are playing are not educational at all. Don’t get me wrong, I am a down to earth person, and I will let my child play video games once in a while, but it should not be a substitute for a parent or guardian. Video games in moderation is totally fine.

The Nintendo Wii on the other hand I believe to be a different story. I do not mind if my child plays that game system for a few hours at a time. It gives you an unbelievable workout and is great exercise. Its also great because even adults like to play, therefor they spend more time with their children. I do not think that you can go wrong purchasing a Wii system for your home. There are also a wide variety of games, from arcade to sports to dancing. There is something for everyone. They even have learning and educational games.

I also believe that allowing children to listen to music is a great way for them to learn, not only do they learn to memorize the words of the songs, as they get older it allows them to learn more about themselves and what they like. My child is eight and I allow her to listen to all different types of music. I mean no offense, but I am not a country music type of person and never have it on the radio, but while flipping through channels my daughter has heard it and actually likes it. Even though we do not share the same opinion on that, I think that it is great that she is able to be herself and have her own likes and dislikes.

So in conclusion I know that many parents do not see eye to eye on the subject of TV and Video games for children, but I believe that there are many educational and physical advantages to opening your mind and allowing your children the opportunity to learn in many different ways.