Parents are keenly aware of early opportunities for development that could shape their kids' future. So are video game developers, who are capitalizing on the tremendous popularity of portable games, smartphones, and tablets: In Apple's iTunes Store, apps targeted to toddlers and preschoolers are the fastest-growing category of educational games.
In a BabyCenter survey of more than 3,000 moms, half reported letting kids younger than 3 play with their smartphone –mostly as a distraction. Moms also said nearly a quarter of the apps on their phone are for their kids.
Advertisem*nt | page continues below
Half of all children under the age of 4 use a smartphone or computer, according to a recent study by Common Sense Media. Kids who use a computer typically start at age 3 1/2.
But before downloading all the latest games, get up to speed on what makes a good game, when kids can best benefit from using a computer or mobile device, and what limits to set.
Video
When is the best age to introduce my child to a computer?
Many experts agree that kids 5 and younger learn best by handling tangible, concrete materials – like blocks – rather manipulating abstract images on a computer screen. And active, free playtime is essential for healthy development.
Warren Buckleitner, editor of Children's Technology Review, says it can make sense to introduce a child to digital media at 2 1/2, although some kids aren't ready until they're older.
Can my child effectively learn from the computer?
It depends on whom you ask, what software you're using, and your child's learning style.
Some critics contend that the educational benefits of computers are grossly overstated. Many also believe that electronic games isolate kids, promote instant gratification, and contribute to alienation, aggression, psychological distress, and childhood obesity.
One thing seems clear: Using digital media is not a developmental cure-all. All children need and crave social interaction, and even the slickest high-speed graphics can produce only a pale imitation of a real, live playmate.
Advertisem*nt | page continues below
However, "There's a lot more research on the positive side than the negative side," Buckleitner says. When it comes to basic math, writing, and reading comprehension, studies show that children can enhance these skills through quality computer games.
And besides academics digital games can also help kids hone fine motor skills, like pointing and clicking a mouse, and large motor skills, like swinging a baseball bat.
What should I look for in a computer game?
Of course, a game must be good for your child to enjoy and learn from it. Here are some pointers to help you make the right choices.
Think amusem*nt first. Remember that at this age, effective learning is often indistinguishable from unadulterated fun. Kids are focused on having a good time, not on meeting adults' educational expectations.
Do your homework. Before you buy software, download an app, or launch an online game, make sure it's age-appropriate. Check websites such as Common Sense MediaOpens a new window to read reviews and ratings by other users.
Advertisem*nt | page continues below
Choose games that allow more than one person to play at a time and reward interaction. Some of the best games for this age group are those you and your child can enjoy together.
Look for games that let kids "accidentally succeed." In other words, the computer doesn't demand a precise response to move the game along, but provides instant feedback to keep a child engaged.
What you don't want is long stretches of uninterrupted animation. Choose games that are easy for kids to control and continue to be challenging as a child becomes more adept.
Restrict online access. Letting children go online risks exposing them to inappropriate content and contact with strangers. Before handing over your smartphone or tablet to your child, take steps to block or limit online access. If your child is playing games online, stay close by and supervise her activity.
Besides supervising your child online, you also may want to filter or block certain material. Options include setting parental controls to filter specific sites, using software to manage or block content, and using software that secures a 'safe zone' for kids.
Advertisem*nt | page continues below
Be wary of in-app purchases. Even free apps can cost you a fortune if your child starts making in-app purchases accidentally. Change the settings on your mobile device to require a password or even block in-app purchases completely.
Don't assume that a licensed software program is as good as the book, TV, or movie version. Buckleitner warns that dozens of companies create programs using the same licensed characters and the quality can vary significantly.
If you own a color printer, take precautions before your child prints a costly pile of full-color web pages. Set your printer's default setting to black-and-white, remove blank paper from the tray, or simply turn the printer off.
Check whether you can return the software – if not for a full refund, then at least for a store credit. You may fire up the computer only to realize that you don't have the right high-speed graphics card, or that it's a poor fit for your child. Apps may be nonrefundable.
Avoid impulse buys and check the release date. If a game or program is more than two years old, it may be light years behind rapid advances in technology.
Advertisem*nt | page continues below
How long should my child be on the computer?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children spend no more than 2 hours a day in front of a computer (or TV) screen. Children under 2 shouldn't have any screen time at all. And if your child wants to stop playing, don't try to stop him.
Attention spans vary, but you can take a cue from your child's age. Younger preschoolers grow antsy and sometimes virtually police themselves. But the older your child gets, the more he needs guidance when it comes to computer play.
Many experts recommend setting limits on computer activity from the very start and sticking with the program. It's important for parents to be good role models. Be aware of how much time you spend playing digital games or using your smartphone.
Should I invest in special accessories?
Special accessories for kids include a mouse designed to fit small hands and appeal to kids. Other child-size products include keyboards, keyboard covers, trackpads and touchpads, and headphones.
To protect the computer against less-than-gentle handling by children, consider using films or skins on the screen, keyboard, and mouse.
Advertisem*nt | page continues below
When you buy software for a game console, check whether special accessories are needed. A standard controller works with most games, but some require special gear such as motion controllers, balance boards or skateboards, drawing tablets, and shooters.
