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The Online Mom provides internet technology advice and information to help parents protect their kids, encourage responsible behavior and safely harness the power of technology in the new digital world. Social networking, photo sharing, video games, IM & texting, internet security, cyberbullying, educational resources, the latest on tech hardware, gadgets and software for kids 3-8, tweens and teens, and more.
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Born In The Internet Age
 If your child was born in the 21st century, the things that make up her everyday life are markedly different from the things you grew up with. The phone is no longer tethered to a wall, but can be carried all over the house, or all over town. And it's no longer just for talking, but for sending text messages and photos, playing games and surfing the Web. The television is often not a big black box, but a movie-like screen on the wall - or a handheld device downloaded with favorite shows. And chances are that the "home" computer, as we know it now, simply did not exist when you were young.
While many of these devices primarily are tools for adults, young children - perhaps picking up on the entertainment value - view them more as sophisticated toys. Which perhaps isn't a bad thing: It fosters a comfort level that many adults never achieve. (Remember how many people had 12:00 perpetually blinking on their VCRs?)
Double-edged sword?
All those gadgets - with their fast-paced streams of information and their innate portability - have become ingrained in our, and our children's lives. Some say a little too ingrained: a 2006 Kaiser Family Foundation report estimated that children age 6 and younger spend an average of two hours each day with screen media - computers, TV and video. That level of exposure can have a profound effect on a child's development. Some education experts believe the rapid-fire images of visual media impair the ability to develop a mature attention span - which certainly would have serious ramifications throughout the learning years. Other studies link screen time with childhood obesity.
That's something to give one pause. Especially if, like many parents, one recognizes the potential educational benefits of visual media. Studies have indicated that children as young as 3 or 4 can be taught to use computers correctly, and can benefit from the experience. Partner sites to trusted resources, such as PBSKids.org, can introduce the Internet to children in a familiar context. Some educators and affiliated groups, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children, note how technology can improve cognitive and relational skills.
At home and on the go
Not only are computers and such part of the home lives of our children, they are increasingly part of life away from home. The laptop - with either a wireless modem or built-in DVD player - lets us bring the Internet or entertainment on the road. Our children don't understand the concept of waiting to get home to use the phone - it comes with us. And video games - which we parents played on a home television or - gasp! - at an arcade - are portable enough to tuck into a backpack or hoodie pocket. And as wireless devices offer more connectivity, chances are that exposure will increase, across all age ranges.
What we should understand, from our own experience of growing up with the hot new things of our youth, is that technology doesn't go away. It's our responsibility to manage our children's use of tech devices. Some tips:
- The computer is a tool; learn how to use it - and teach your children to use it - to your and their benefit.
- Set limits on computer, television and video game use. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than one or two hours a day.
- Teach the value of patience. Think about your own use of cell phones and other wireless devices: What example are you setting?
- Resist peer pressure: Your kindergartner may want a Nintendo DS, but does he need one now? Not to mention the pain of losing $130, should Junior lose or break it. It's OK to wait.
- Stay a step ahead: Keep current on gadgets and technology, so that you stay more informed than your children. Cnet is a good resource for reviews and other information on all things tech.
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