CONT. EARLY TECHNOLOGY...

Computers are intrinsically motivating for young children, and contribute to cognitive and social development .

Computers can enhance children’s self-concept and improveChildren demonstrate increased levels of spoken communication and cooperation during computer use . Children share leadership roles on the computer, and initiate interactions more frequently .

The variety of rich experiences that promote early literacy, including conversations with caring adults, storytelling, drawing and painting, and pretend play, is critical in the development of both oral and written language . Everyday, playful experiences in print-rich environments expose children to the processes of reading and writing for real purposes (International Reading Association [IRA] and NAEYC, 1998). Technology has a place in this environment; language and literacy development are major strengths of technology use with young children through the opportunities and motivation it provides. While critics express concerns that computer use will inhibit language development and lead to social isolation (Cordes & Miller, 2000; Healy, 1998), rather than isolating children, research shows that:Computer play encourages longer, more complex speech and the development of fluency

taking and peer collaboration. “Compared to more traditional activities, such as puzzle assembly or block building, the computer elicits more social interaction and different types of interaction” (Clements, Nastasi, & Swaminathan, 1993, p. 60).

Physical Well-Being and Motor Development

form letters. A word processor allows them to compose and revise text without being distracted by the fine motor aspects of letter formation (Davis & Shade, 1994).

Following ergonomic standards similar to those for adults can help prevent muscular-skeletal injuries and vision problems. Computer use is and should be relatively brief at this age, and limiting screen time and encouraging frequent breaks will decrease the risks. Lack of exercise and obesity are serious problems that need to be addressed during both in-school and out-of-school hours. On a typical day children two to seven years old spend an average of 11 minutes using a computer, and more than three

hours watching television and videos (Roberts, Foehr, Rideout, & Brodie, 1999). Screen time (including TV, computer, and video games) should be limited to a maximum of one to two hours per day for young children .

Vigorous physical activities and play should be encouraged.

As with television monitors, electromagnetic emissions from computers are minimal. Exposure can be lessened even more by having children sit two to two and one-half feet from the monitor and allowing distance between computers.