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When I was a kid, my mom would always be screaming at me to “turn that darn computer and study!” She did not understand what was so fascinating about the box (yes, I used a CRT monitor). Little did she know that the world of technology and internet made my life a lot easier during college.
I thought I was lucky to have a desktop. But you know who is luckier than me? Kids today. They have a myriad of options when it comes to personal computers and the applications they can use on it. Technology, when used right, can make learning easy and so much fun!
Sadly, most parents do not agree with my opinion. So here I am, with a list of ten actual benefits that your child can get from using a PC during his or her formative years.
Ten Reasons You Should Buy A PC For Your Kid
I have a nephew who I adore and want him to get only the best. So, for his fifth birthday, I got him his own PC! Here’s why.
1. Technology promotes cognitive development:
Researchers say that when used correctly, technology can promote a child’s learning and cognitive development. Children play games, watch educational videos and even read on their computers, all of which can help promote the child’s cognition (1). The catch, however, is to ensure that the content accessed is child-friendly.
2. Better visual attention:
Did you ever see children when they’re using a computer? They’re focused and engrossed in whatever they are doing. Well, that is a good thing because when they concentrate on the screen, they improve their visual attention, and also their attention to the minute details. Again, this is good only if the time spent is supervised and brief.
3. Improve social skills:
While technology cannot replace human interaction, proper use of applications can teach kids about the dos and don’ts of social interaction. There are several computer applications that you can use to teach your children about the basics of social and interpersonal interactions.
4. Expands horizons:
Back when I was a kid, I didn’t think of writing as a profession, because I didn’t know of such a job! But kids today know about the different career options they have, thanks to the wealth of information they can access using computers.
5. Supports learning:
Did you know that the PC can also act as your kid’s tutor? The plethora of educational and support apps can help them improve their skills in math, language or even art! The language development applications, math programs, and games based on science support the learning process of the child while increasing their curiosity on the subject.
6. Enhances problem-solving skills:
When your kid plays a game on the computer, you think he or she is just wasting time. I believe that they are learning how to solve problems and win the game. Pick the right kind of games (mindless violence in games is a no-no) that encourage the child to think and plan their strategy.
7. Technology and creativity:
The computer screen can be the child’s canvas on which he can draw, paint or even sketch using apps. Some programs allow children to create and even edit music, videos, and photographs. Digital devices can also be used to read stories or watch videos that trigger their creative instincts.
8. Prepare them for the digital world:
Kids can have fun even if they don’t know how to use a computer. But their chances of surviving in the real world, one that is dominated by technology, are almost non-existent if they are computer-illiterate. So, introducing computers to your child early on is necessary and will give them a head start.
9. Improve specific skills:
Want your child to get better at math or algebr? How about some fun geometry and playful physics lessons? With a computer and appropriate applications, you can let your child experience the beauty of these subjects through practical exercises which they can relate to and remember for a long time.
10. Active brains:
Watching cartoons on TV for hours together is a passive activity. An hour into it, the brain falls asleep and whatever they see or hear is just lost. But replace the TV with a computer that has puzzles, games, story books and projects, your child will be actively engaged and develops individual skills that he might find useful growing up.
PCs are also better than smartphones and tablets, as they require the child to sit in a chair (helps posture) and to type using a keyboard (better typing skills!). If you are not willing to share your laptop with the kids, then get one for them. That way, you can child-proof the laptop and also keep your own work safe.
I bought an all-in-one PC that was just right for my nephew. The screen is big, and it has a touch feature as well, so he doesn’t miss his mom’s smartphone. The kid’s parents are happy too because they see that the boy is actually making productive use of the computer!
I believe that PCs can be a great tool for early stage learning and that’s why I support Dell Aarambh. Learn more about the campaign here:
So, when are you getting a PC for your kid?
