This week in tech gadgets we look at what kind of toys are out there for the kiddos, but is it the best thing to give them versus a ball or crayons? Experts weigh in on this discussion.
Allison Arling-Giorgi, senior director of strategic innovation at The Intelligence Group, said two-thirds of children between the ages of seven and 13 would prefer to have a tech gadget rather than a toy to play with, according to Steve McClellan’s article on Mediapost.com.
The question here is whether or not technology and gadgets have a positive or negative effect on your child. Experts on the subject can be found standing on both sides.
Research psychologist and computer educator Dr. Larry Rosen is a supporter of technology integration in raising children, according to Stephanie Buck’s article on Mashable.com.
“Social networking is really helping them with who they are, their identity in the world,” Rosen says of preteens and teens who engage with their peers via social platforms like Facebook.
On the other hand, pediatric occupational therapist Cris Rowan believes technology does not have a positive impact on a child’s development, and the child will suffer communication skills as a result, according to Buck’s article.
“Any time spent in front of a device or with a device is detrimental to child development,” Rowan said.
What do you think? Does technology have a positive or negative effect on your children? How much exposure to technology do you allow for your children? Comment below.
Meanwhile, companies are responding to the increased demand and here are the latest gadgets on the market for kids.
Nomad PLAY
The Nomad PLAY is a paintbrush stylus designed for drawing and painting on tablets, iPhones, Kindles, etc. Handcrafted from maple and soft rubber, the Nomad is easy to grip and will not scratch the screen of your device. The paintbrush comes in blue, yellow, red and green. $18 nomadbrush.com
AppTag Laser Blaster
The AppTag Laser Blaster by Hex3 allows for kids to play laser tag in their home by attaching your iPhone or Android phone to the laser-shooting device. The free AppTag application that can be downloaded onto the iPhone keeps score and allows for picking up health kits, body armor and ammunition packs. $59.99 hex3.co
Polaroid Kids Tablet
This tablet by Polaroid is geared towards kids by combining the fun and entertainment they love with the durability and educational benefits parents love. The tablet is equipped with side and rear bumpers to protect the tablet and parental controls and a safe web browser. $149.99 polaroidstore.com
Sources: http://mashable.com/2011/08/09/kids-tech-developmental-health/
That AppTag Laser Blaster looks awesome! Thanks for that Tishin. I think I have my next toy–err I mean my son’s next toy.