Over the past couple of decades, there has been a marked transition between the benefit of computer usage in work and the absolute necessity of it. In fact, computer usage is today, quite simply, a necessity not just for work or play but, for life.
And It is a given that the future generations will, of course, be more technically advanced. But, just as we used to checkout the local playgrounds, youth clubs and social networks, parental responsibilities should now also include an awareness of life within a laptop. Your child should be given the tools to type accurately (just as we were taught to write neatly), source information, organize photos, meet inspiring people and even create podcasts or websites. But there is a need for boundaries which pushes parents to grow alongside their child.
I know that it was my actions as a youth that pushed own parents (who had no general need for I.T. usage in everyday life) to get “online” when I went travelling. Having no intention of spending money on costly telephone calls, they would have to logon to the internet to find out where in the world I might be. Today, more than 10 years later I still live in a different country and now it is a need to hear about their grandchild that urges them to boot up most evenings.
It is said that 90% of children between the ages of 5-17 years access a computer. And 60% of those children are surfing the internet. But what exactly are they doing? Well, if they are doing things correctly they could be aiding their visual and gross motor skills, cognitive development, reaction times and generally increasing their IQ levels. Many studies have even found that preschoolers benefit hugely from an awareness and interactivity with computers.
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| Wii gets children and parents off of the sofa and active |
The new generation children has been born in technological world and both schooling and employment opportunities revolve around a savvy computer knowledge. "Learning how to use a computer has become as important as writing and reading in the classroom," says Alison Lane, an assistant professor of occupational therapy at Ohio State University.
And the hardware and software companies out there are keen to support our younger generations. The Nintendo Wii has proven results in assisting autistic children to develop hand-eye co-ordination – computer manufacturers had a clear understanding that gaming should no longer be sedentary and instead should be sociable and energetic.
Apple Mac has always styled its operating systems to aid teaching and it pays attention to special needs with voiceover and screen magnification functions – it even offers discounts for educational purchases. Their iPod touch has helped to improve literacy. And Greene County USA has even reported higher attendance rates since introducing a more Mac-based curriculum.
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| "I'm a Mac" and "I'm a PC" ad for kids |
Computer usage for our generation and the generations to come is no longer a matter for debate. It’s here and it does affect our personal and professional relationships. But what’s more, with the opportunities for sharing holiday snaps, instant messaging and even making websites, it can be fun!
Apple Macs offer the most conclusive in-built software packages that motivate and encourage students of all ages. For more information on how to make the most of your Apple Mac contact Justin Menchen at Marbella Mac Solutions.
www.marbellamacsolutions.com
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