Parents and kids embrace iPad for learning

February 17, 2011|by Cara Restelli, KY3 News | crestelli@ky3.com

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Parents and their children consider the iPad to be more than just another electronic device. The popular tablet is becoming a tool for learning as well.

USA Today reports apps designed for children are now twice as numerous as those designed for adults. Kid-centered apps teach children how to draw letters, sound out words and improve their memory. Many are designed specifically to prepare kids for kindergarten. Some educators even think the iPad has a leg up on more traditional methods of learning.

"A lot of times, when you're looking for pencil grasp or writing, their hands aren't strong enough yet. This kind of separates it, where they can just do it with their finger," said Nixa pre-school teacher Jennie Newberry.

Parents like Stephanie Yeager have taken to the iPad because it lets their kids learn when parents are busy being parents.

"These apps are good because they help us when we're busy doing housework and we can't always be right there with a child and help them learn and teach them," Yeager said.

Newberry already sees a positive impact in kids who use apps to develop their writing skills.

"I think this is really good because it's showing the child how to do letter formation," Newberry said.

She also likes apps targeting early reading skills. She said memory game and puzzles are also great.

ALL THINGS IN MODERATION

As with all electronics, Newberry warns, they should only be used in moderation.

"It's too much when kids are going from iPhone or iPad to computer to DVD player and you have to monitor all that in combination," Newberry said.

No matter how educational, she warns gadgets like these take away from physical and social development.

"They learn through watching and, if they're looking at iPhone and iPad, they lose that social interaction," Newberry said.

She likes what the iPad and gadgets like it have to offer, but says it should be used in addition to, not instead of, traditional teaching tools.

"I don't think it should replace pencil, paper, puzzles and climbing and digging, but it's definitely another tool," Newberry said.

|

|

|