Several years back, the Alliance for Childhood called for a moratorium on computers in early childhood education programs. As we know, that did not happen. Mark Ginsburg, executive director of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, responded to that challenge in the following way. His thoughts are good to keep in mind today as we consider the major education issues in our schools.
"In the end, a computer is a tool, just like a book, a pencil or a television. Computers can be used in developmentally appropriate ways beneficial to children, and like any other tool they can also be misused.
"There is considerable research pointing to the positive effects of technology on children's learning and development. That research also indicates that computers supplement and do not replace highly valued elementary school and toddler activities and materials, such as art, blocks, sand, water, popular children's books, exploration with writing materials and dramatic play.
"Rather than issue a moratorium on computers, parents and early childhood educators should examine the impact of this technology on children, and make sure computers are used to their benefit, to develop literacy and cognitive and social skills.
"But in order to do that, concerned adults need to take some time to understand how children are using technology to learn and to develop new skills. Try going online at your child's school or your local library.
"Learn from your children by asking them questions about how they log on to the Internet and how they access their favorite Web sites. You may be surprised at how comfortable young children often are negotiating this new world. You'll also show young children that you care about their hobbies and interests."
Reprinted from ChildCareExchange, Copyright 2001, Exchange Press, Inc. All Rights Reserved.