When I see my son "typing" on my laptop I am amazed. He's not yet three and already his little fingers fly around like he's working on a college term paper. And while I try to steer him away from things like iPhones and computers, it's hard to keep him from things that have become essential in our daily lives. He's already asking for his favorite apps - Doodle Buddy and Lunch Box, in case you wanted to know. But I can't help wondering, is all this technology too much, too soon?
A developmental milestone during the toddler years is imitating behavior of others. So when adults are busy sending text messages or checking emails, our little ones are watching us closely. Talk about monkey see, monkey do. And it's not just our gadgets that are making children so adept. There are laptops for preschoolers, cell phones for grade schoolers, and even stuffed animals kids play with online in a virtual world. Toys have come a long way since my Easy Bake oven.
I'm trying to handle the idea of a having a tech savvy toddler by remembering that it's all about balance. Not just for him, but for me as well. If he doesn't see me on the computer for long stretches, then hopefully he won't be as drawn to it as well, at least not while he's so young.
When my son says, "Play with me!" I try to close my laptop or put away my phone as soon as possible. When he's all grown up, I want him to remember that mom wasn't too busy checking emails to build Lego cars or play hide and seek. I look forward to the day when he'll tell me this. Maybe he'll tell me while we're Skyping, but by then my job will be done.
0 Comments
