a new trend: apps for kids

A New Trend: Apps for Kids

Photo credit: Toca Boca – flickr

By Laura Leonard

April 2010iPad was introduced to the US market

In just over four months, iPad sales reached $1 billion

March 11, 2011 iPad 2 for sale in US

January 18, 2011 iPad sales reach 14.8 million

Photo credit: yto - flickr

Now there is a NEW trend…

...apps for kids.

Photo credit: novemberwolf – flickr

Apps are being designed for toddlers and preschoolers.

Photo credit: creativesam – flickr

When “TODDLER” and “EDUCATIONAL” are typed into iTunes,

more than 800 apps for children under 3 years can

be found.

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The touch screen is EASY for kids to use and games make learning FUN.

Photo credit: Toca Boca – flickr

Some apps may even help children learn how to READ.

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BONUS: An iPad is more easily PORTABLE

than traditional

toys...

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...and perfect to keep kids busy in a car, plane, or public

transit.

Photo credit: Dominic’s pics - flickr

If parents are worried about damage to this expensive device, there are many ways to

childproof it with anti-slip, waterproof, and other protective covers and cases.

Photo credit: Jemimus - flickr

Some stores sell cheaper and more durable versions for kids.

Photo credit: jessica mullen – flickr

However, there are some dangers for kids using iPads and similar products.

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“The challenge for parents will be finding ways to limit screen time.....

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.... and make sure their kids don’t end up tapping their way into places (or people) they should not.”

Nicole Bautein Is iPad the next big toy for toddlers

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“Laptops and computers are already diversion-and-distracting machines and an iPad is that for a toddler”

- Mike Elgan in Is iPad the next big toy for toddlers?

Photo credit: Shane Pope – flickr

Parents need to monitor their

children’s usage and teach them how to use these devices

safely.Photo credit: jted – flickr

Devices like iPads may seem addictive and shorten attention spans.

Devices like iPads may seem addictive and

shorten attention spans.

Photo credit: AngryJulieMonday - flickr

Studies show children who spend more time in front of a screen each day are likely to have attention problems in school.

Photo credit: Elizabeth Albert – flickr

Child’s screen time should be limited to 1-2 hrs/day.

– American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Canadian Paediatric Society

Photo credit: jencu - flickr

An iPad can teach kids a lot, but not everything

An iPad can teach kids a lot, but not everything.

Photo credit: michaelaion - flickr

It is important for parents to interact with their children.

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References

ReferencesA Brief History of the iPad [Infographic]http://www.theipadfan.com/history-ipad-infographic/

Excess TV, computer video games linked to poor attention in classroom: studyBy Sheryl Ubelackerhttp://www.parentcentral.ca/parent/newsfeatures/article/832181--excess-tv-computer-video-games-linked-to-poor-attention-in-classroom-study

iPhone apps a hit with preschoolers By Rob Fergusonhttp://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/934673--iphone-apps-a-hit-with-preschoolers

Is iPad the next big toy for toddlers?By Nicole Bautehttp://www.parentcentral.ca/parent/newsfeatures/article/824100--is-ipad-the-next-big-toy-for-toddlers

Parent Debate: Do iPads and Smartphones Really Teach Toddlers to Read?By Becky Worleyhttp://abcnews.go.com/Technology/parent-debate-ipads-smartphones-teach-toddlers-read/story?id=13626381

Photo credit: 3Gstore.de – flickr