Technologies
Technology is here to stay. Technology has been proven to increase support in our everyday life ( Ripon, 2022). How do we become technology literate for our kids? How do we know if the devices we got for our children are the right one?
We have curated some devices that can be used for leisure and educational activities for your children and whole family.
01. Leapfrog
With its sound and images, these interactive devices cater for different ages. LeapFogs are interactive educational devices that children or adults can explore. Its vibrant colours and the sounds captivates children's attention. There are varying designs and topics that have different concepts or topics that it focuses on. LeapFrogs are designed for children to explore independently through the sounds they produce but adults asking questions and being curious learners will engage children further.
02.Books
Books are one of the most timeless parts of technology. It helps children to explore their creativity and imagination. Books or contents of text have expanded into podcasts or audiobooks or even e-books. Books help our children to develop reading comprehension, critical thinking, copy reading and writing, and fine motor skills as well. Any kind of genre is a great way to explore books for children. Also, children's books are a great way to visually show children what it means, and this is how they process this information and translate it into their own understanding. Moreover, visiting libraries is also a great way to explore and has a positive association with books.
03.XBOX
XBox is a gaming console that is interactive and also keeps children and adults to collect information about the game and to plan their strategies throughout the game. Throughout the years, Xbox has evolved in many different variations. Xbox has also released an upgraded version of their console, and this allows users to move during the play, like “ Just Dance Game”. When choosing a game, it is important for families to get a family friendly game that challenges and allows for co-learning and challenges throughout. Importantly, having fun together is important in playing the game. XBox also has Netflix and Youtube as in device apps, making the device an all in one entertainment device.
04.Playstation
Playstation is similar to XBox however, the playstation is geared towards gaming (Internet Matters.Org, n.d). Just like Xbox, playstation invokes strategy and observation. Strategy games are great for planning and critical thinking. Just like Xbox, Playstation has also upgraded multiple parts of their device to better cater for children and families. Some include being able to use smartphones as a controller for multiple users.
05.Youtube Kids
Youtube Kids is part of YouTube. The contents are geared directly towards children. This is a viewing app for children to safely explore their area of interest. YouTube Kids have a strict policy to meet children’s privacy and its algorithm filters children’s shows that fits our children’s unique interests. Parents can also alter what their children may watch and it can set a time limit for screen time. We think that this allows children a healthy balance with screen time and their regular activities.
06.Netflix Kids
Similar to Youtube Kids, Netflix Kids is part of Netflix that also focuses on children as their viewers. All shows or movies and its sub genres help to distinguish which shows their children may want to watch. Netflix has shows for every age group and children who are older who have learned to navigate the system may independently choose their own shows. Netflix Kids also have a similar privacy setting like YouTube Kids that parents can set up.
07. iPad or Tablets
iPads are part of the extensive devices of Apple products. iPads can be known as “portable computers” . They carry a lot of features just like a laptop or computer. One thing that is great with iPads is its size. It can be carried anywhere. With its wide screen, it is a perfect device for co-viewing and co-learning. iPad is also a device that is interactive especially for playing games. The app store has a lot of varying apps that compose strategy and problem-solving games. Fine motor skills can also be improved.
Computers or Laptops are visible in our settings. For example, at home, at schools and libraries. It is also known that during the pandemic, children have to use laptops or computers for online learning. We think that Laptop can be one of the least needed devices to be introduced as this is widely used at school as well. I think that co-sharing with a common laptop at home is enough for our childrens. Older children may need a Laptop for literacy component as they progress in their school level. However, the Laptop also carries a lot of content such as games, microsoft word tools, and can also be used to view shows. Moreover, some laptops also have touchscreen features like iPad or Tablets.
09. Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch is one of the newest brands of Nintendo. Nintendo Switch is similar to Xbox and Playstation but compared to the size, switch is portable. Multiple players can also play with the device but the screen is small. According to users, the switch has a parental control system that allows parents to know how long their child has been using the device. We think that is a great way to minimize screen time especially if the device is easily set up and accessible. One advantage of Switch is that it does not have a web page whose sole focus is leisure and enjoyable time for games (Internet Matter.Org, n.d). This avoids children from accessing the internet.
10. TVO Learn
TVO Learn is an educational website by the Ministry of Education. The videos solely focus on the Ontario curriculum that covers K -12 classes. The videos are guides for the lessons and are made through enjoyable videos. These videos are accessible for everyone to use and can be seen on any device TVO learn is not only for children but also for parents to help them navigate the concepts of the school curriculum. This is also a great way to be involved in our children’s education.