In this day and age,
technology is unavoidable. We are
a society addicted to the convenience and availability of various forms of
technology, and in order to keep up we must learn to navigate at an
increasingly younger age. There
are many merits to exposing students to technology; not only will they learn
the workings of computers which will prove to be useful later, but computer and
video games provide both learning and fun to children of all ages.
Video games are fun because
of many key points. They teach
challenge and strategy, which boosts critical thinking. The element of surprise in most video
games keeps them interesting, and the replay ability allows for a game to be
replayed with varying results.
Through the use of video games, students boost memorization and context
skills, language comprehension, manual dexterity, and more.
According to the NAEYC, “when
used intentionally and appropriately, technology and interactive media are
effective tools to support learning and development.” As with most activities, medium is key. Video and computer games should not
replace interactive and live learning, and the time that younger children spend
in front of a screen should be limited.
At Kids R Kids, we
incorporate the use of smart boards into our weekly schedules. By using the ABC Mouse program,
students work on a variety of skills including color/letter/number recognition,
and are able to listen to songs and stories pertaining to the weekly
theme. Each class is given a time
slot to go to the computer lab every week, and students are able to explore the
many different activities that the computers offer.
-Emily Lian, Education Director
Early Childhood Education Expert
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