Articles and Advice

We believe it is crucial parents stay updated regarding children's development. The following is a list of articles from various sources that we recommend:

Bookmark this page! We are constantly updating this area with new links, articles and advice.

Toddlers & Computers / Technology:
Toddlers and Computers in the 21st Century

Extracted text: "In the reality of today’s world, there is a computer at almost every home. The computer attracts kids watching their family members activate it. Thus, it is worthwhile to channel children’s natural curiosity into exploration through this multimedia. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics of infancy, how they are expressed in Comfy’s keyboard and software products, which childish needs Comfy serves, and how Comfy’s products can be wisely utilized for children and their parents." Read More…

Kids & Computers
Modern Parenting Resources.com

"Technology has been recognized as an important tool that aids in the learning process."
"Computers are used to enhance language development of the child through computer-based readings and materials that allow for more interaction on the part of the child-learner."
"Technology has been found to play a part in raising a child’s self-esteem and self-reliance."
"Children who were exposed to computers and technology-assisted instruction were found to be more work-focused and more productive compared to children who had not had this experience."
"The use of technology and the computer mean that activities can be specially designed to address the needs and interests of children."
"Over exposure to the computers can easily be addressed with the use of proper guidelines and monitoring of use by parents and teachers."
"The maximum amount of screen time should be one to two hours a day for young children" Read More…

Young Children & Technology
By Douglas Clements

"Research on young children and technology similarly has moved beyond simple questions to consider the implications of these changing perspectives for the use of technology in early childhood education. For example, we no longer need to ask whether the use of technology is “developmentally appropriate.” Very young children have shown comfort and confidence in using software. They can follow pictorial directions and use situational and visual cues to understand and think about their activity (Clements and Nastasi 1993). Typing on the keyboard does not seem to cause them any trouble; if anything, it is a source of pride." Read More…

Computer course for toddlers
BBC.News
Children as young as 18 months are enrolling on a computer skills college course.
The course, at Ryde College in Watford, Hertfordshire, is designed specifically for babies and toddlers aged up to three-and-a-half.
Managing Director Mike Ryde said:
“Children of a very young age are in their prime years for learning. When they are young, children pick up things like languages and accents instinctively - an ability which is lost as we get older.”
"Children should have the opportunity to learn. You shouldn't push children to do it, but if they enjoy it, why not?”
“Computers are very much part of everyday life, and the only guarantee is that they will become even more part of every day life in the future.”
"The sooner children become accustomed to them, accept them, and can relax with them, the better."

Read More…

Parents.com: "Surfing for Cognitive Skills"
Parents.com: "Computers and Toddlers: The pros and cons"
Project 2061: "Young Children and Technology"
Benefits of Computer Use
Toddlers who use a computer develop better learning skills than toddlers who do not
Partnership for Learning: "How young is too young? Introducing your baby and toddler to the computer"

Parenting:
RaisingKids.co.uk: "1-4 Yrs: Toddlers - from tantrums to toilet training"
JuicyJuice.com: "Your Toddler’s Emotional World"
Child Development:

"Technology offers additional ways to learn, and to demonstrate learning. For some children who have unique learning styles, computers can reveal hidden strengths. At the computer, children can approach learning from a variety of perspectives and follow various paths to a goal (Clements, 1999). Poor concentration and attention problems can be addressed by limiting screen time, helping children focus on the task, and choosing software that does not employ excessively stimulating noises or constantly moving graphics." Read More…

Learn through Play:
Parents.com: "What Your Child Learns from Play"
JuicyJuice.com: "The Benefits of Playtime for Babies"

Computers and Vision:
American Optometric Association: "How to Make Computer Use Easier on your Eyes"
AllAboutVision.com: "9 Steps to Reducing Computer Eyestrain"

Websites for Reference:
American Academy of Pediatrics
William Gladden Foundation