Children are dynamic, rapidly changing and full of curiosity. Some hit developmental milestones early while others may see milestones as vague suggestions, getting to them in their own time. Especially now, in the age of technology, parents have the opportunity to use new tools to help their children learn, grow and hit each milestone successfully. And, with smartphones and tablets, parents can carry educational games, puzzles and lessons with them everywhere. Here are just a few reasons why you should invest in educational tablets:
Growing Platform
Nearly half of American children use tablets on a regular basis, according to a 2013 study conducted by Common Sense Media. This is five times more than the previous year, and the amount of time spent on the devices has tripled. The study also claims that media platforms have delivered educational content to children for a long time to help them prepare for school, address educational inequality and cover specific learning areas. Television shows are still the largest platform for educational content, but mobile devices have quickly caught up to computers and passed many other platforms.
Age Scalability
The type of tablet you purchase can grow with your child’s needs and education level. An article in the Journal of Research on Technology in Education reports the findings of researchers who videotaped children from the ages of 3 to 6 as they used tablets. The study shows that the amount of time and engagement with the device increased with age and that the manner in which parents and teachers implemented the session mediated the engagement. This shows that the educational games need to become more challenging as the child ages and that the presentation will affect his or her enjoyment. For example, if your child is younger than five, you can start with drawing games that will hold his or her attention longer. Or, if your child is older, consider puzzle, reading or math games that will be more stimulating.
Types of Tablets
When you are looking to buy a tablet, you can either go for a regular tablet like those offered by Apple and Samsung or a tablet specially designed for children like the Leap Frog products. The benefit of investing in a tablet like the iPad Air is that it can be used by people of all ages. This means that you can use it as the parent and it can grow with your child as you download age-appropriate apps. The Leap Frog products also are a good choice because they are age appropriate and are sturdy enough to handle any drops by your child. They also have a variety of educational games in them.
Educational Apps
With so many apps available, it can be hard to know where to start. Parents Magazine puts out a list of the best educational apps annually that range from learning the alphabet to animals to vocabulary to shapes and more. When you are looking through the App Store or Google Play, look for games that are both age appropriate and scalable so that they will last a long time. And, for the best educational benefit, switch out the games often so your child continues to develop and be entertained.
