Many people are under the belief that technology and gadgets are essential for a child’s development, but can you go too far?
Here we look at a survey that was taken in the UK to look at how much time children spend looking at screens either on a TV, Ipad or smart phone.
37% said their child spends 1-2 hours per day with tech gadgets.
28% said between 2-3 hours per day.
34% of 2-5 year olds own an Android tablet or Ipad.
The 2015 survey also revealed that 85% of mums admit to using technology to keep children occupied while they continue daily tasks.
When putting all this data together it was revealed that over the course of childhood, children spend more time watching TV than they spend in school.
By looking at and considering the 3 Cs below this will help you as a parent decide if the content is appropriate and suitable to their age and development needs.
Content: What is my child playing/watching? Can they understand/potentially learn from it?
Context: What has my child’s day been like so far? Have we spoke and interacted about the day?
Child: Response, when it’s over do they burst with excitement and new ideas or are they anxious and withdrawn?
“Thinking about the three C’s in the moment when trying to decide whether to let your child play with a tablet or watch a show, helps you to make better, more mindful choices” says Guernsey.
Of course there are excellent high-quality media apps that offer help allowing children opportunities to develop important skills, some great games to support reading, Maths and other skills.
The tricky part however is sorting through the apps to find the good ones.
Hopefully by considering the three C’s before allowing your child screen time and giving a time limit, this will ensure the child benefits and learns the information shown, once finished ask them what they have learned and engage in a conversation about their new found skills. Over time the skills should be able to be adapted to everyday life e.g. reading signs or looking for words and letters while in the car on the way to school, counting and solving simple Maths problems with objects. These skills can be learned through appropriate screen time but used in everyday life.
We will always have extremely fond and treasured memories of our girls time at Children’s Oasis. The teachers are so creative and fun, always thinking of new ways to engage the children and the thoughtful and varied outdoor areas were always a favourite of theirs. We loved the intimate, friendly feel and all the little extras which makes it feel that you are part of a community. Thanks for everything, we really couldn’t have asked for a better start and we will miss you all.
What I love about Children's Oasis is how well looked after my children are and how comfortable they feel. They know the names of most of the staff and will always say 'hi' and often stop for a chat. It's a calm and nurturing environment.
We love children’s Oasis Nursery. It has been a part of our lives for over 8 years with both our girls going there. The staff are all amazing and really care for the children.
Que alegría haberlos encontrado! Estamos muy agradecidos de comenzar los años escoltarse de nuestra hija con su apoyo! Desde las maestras, hasta la directora y el ambiente de la escuela tuvimos una experiencia fenomenal y estamos entusiasmados de volver en Septiembre! Muchas gracias Children's Oasis!!!
Both my boys were at Children Oasis from the time they were 2 and until they were 4 years old; first attending the Spanish Programme and then, FS1. Both classes were great! The teachers are incredibly professional and caring. The communication with the parents is excellent and reports are detailed. They make learning fun and engaging for the kids who learn through hands-on activities and play. The facilities are beautiful with lots of stimulating and educational books and toys. I couldn't ask for more during those early years for my children!
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