The Gorilla often gets asked unusual questions and this one is no exception. The question was from a parent of a toddler, and although the Gorilla is certainly no Jo Frost or Dr. Spock, he knows a thing or two about the subject. The question was simple: how old does your child need to be to start using a computer? First and foremost, let the Gorilla just say that in a tech world, it would be a travesty to NOT let your child be exposed to at least some tech early on- after all, there are computers in most pre-schools today. And in fact, just about everything we use in our daily lives involves technology; credit card machines, ATM’s, gas pumps, and although your small kids aren’t required (or equipped) to use those adult items, they will be exposed to the TV remote and a cellular phone at the very least! Now parents, don’t get yourself in a tizzy over this one, it’s not that difficult to get started- there are plenty of kid-friendly, starter computers you can get your toddler using and they are a great first introduction to the world of tech and computers. One such techie-toy is Leap Frog’s Click Start, which is a kiddie-style computer that is plugged into a TV for easy interaction. This clever toy was touted as one of the “best new tech toys for kids” in 2007 by the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and the New York Times. This is just one of hundreds of choices for those parents who want to introduce their kids to technology. In every Toys-R-Us store across the country, you can find the shelves littered with tech toys, from digital puzzles to working, talking robots and everything the mind can imagine. Tech is everywhere, so your kids will be exposed to it whether you like it or not. So what about using a real computer? Well, it is okay for them to just start with punching keys to get used to the idea of typing and looking at a screen, however, The American Academy Of Pediatrics advises against screen time for children ages two and younger, and it recommends no more than one to two hours a day of quality programming on televisions or computers for older children. Donald L. Shifrin, a pediatrician based in Seattle and the spokesman for the academy, said tech toys cannot replace imaginative play, where children create rich narratives and interact with peers or parents. “Are we creating media use as a default for play?” Dr. Shifrin asked. “When kids want to play, will they ask, ‘Where’s the screen?’ Now, don’t get the Gorilla wrong here, he is certainly not advocating computer use as a replacement for the old stand-bys that we grew up with….the bike, balls, and books. Those are the things great childhoods are made of. Oh, and most importantly, don’t forget to actually play -with kids one-on one. No amount of play can replace a parent’s time, and although it is important today that your child be experienced with using a computer, no screen or tech- toy can replace the direct interaction of you with your children.
So, how old is appropriate? Well, that is entirely up to the parent. Just make sure you are there to help them out and make it fun, by doing it with them and limiting their play time! With all the great technology out there, your kids are sure to be little Gorilla’s in the making! Hey, how bout’ getting them watching CNBC while you’re at it?