As
children’s librarians, we are often faced with the screen time question. What is too much? Should babies and young children be allowed
screen time? We are often challenged over
the use of iPad and computers. We are
currently developing a storytime that incorporates the use of iPad and
apps. As we move forward, we understand
some parents will have concerns.
Dr. Dimtri
Christakis, Director of Child Health Behavior & Development at Seattle
Children’s Research Institute states “Screens are purely a delivery
mechanism. What parents should be
focused on is content”. He feels former
statements by the American Academy of Pediatrics are out of date. I agree.
Apps and
games need to be interactive not passive to stimulate and develop the child’s
brain. Recently, I participated in a
class where app reviews were a requirement.
I compared the “Pop-Up Peter Rabbit” storytime app to “The Tale of Peter
Rabbit” app. The pop-up version promoted
exploration within the app while the other version was flat with no interaction. Often when a parent has a young child who
does not want to sit and be read to, I suggest interactive books. Interactive books will draw the child into
the story through the use of flaps, pop-up, touch & feel or repetitive
verse. They are all vehicles to involve
the child in the reading process. Apps
are the same approach, but a different mode of delivery. The child will explore and grow with
activities that call for their response or touch/swipe to control the
activity. Young children can improve
eye/hand coordination, speech & language and conceptual thinking. The library has recently added iPads for
young children’s use. One of the apps
that was loaded on to the iPads is Color Zen Kids. It’s a great example of design to develop
conceptual thinking.
Parents as
well as teachers and librarians must make thoughtful app choices. Some of the best sites for app reviews are
Common Sense Media, Graphite and Google Play for Education.
Like any
other technology or activity, moderation is the key. Screen time can be fun, entertaining and
educational, but only screen time is too much for anyone whether an adult or
child.
