Essential Tech for School-age Children

Organization is a difficult but important lesson for kids to learn in school and in life. Some gadgets can make that lesson a little easier. Choose tech that helps them take notes or record lessons in the classroom so they can keep track of key facts. Look into smart books and e-books that allow them to keep all reading and study material in one place and prevent them from getting lost.

Outside the classroom, you can still use tech to help them keep orderly. Use smartwatches or activity trackers at home that show when it’s time to do certain tasks such as homework, exercise and chores. Sit down with your child and put together a digital calendar. That way, both of you will have an idea about due dates and tests that are approaching.

Phones, tablets and laptops may become more helpful with the addition of specific apps. Some assist children keep on track with their studies and it’s easy to find free downloads of daily planners, to-do lists and study timetables. You can also get vocabulary or flashcard apps to prepare for tests and quizzes.

Educational apps don’t always have to be focused on studying. Some games use spelling, science and math as fun mechanics, so check for learning games on the app store. For downtime, download meditation or destressing relaxation apps. This allows kids to practice good mental health habits and prevents them from becoming overwhelmed and burned out.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, or STEM, is a collection of disciplines important to personal and professional development. Working with your child on STEM concepts can help them get ahead in school and life. Select educational gadgets and toys that relate to concepts kids are currently learning about or are soon to learn about in class. The lessons in STEM kits and tech work for everything from coding to robotics.

When selecting apps, games, kits and activities, be certain they are child-led and have clear instructions that explain the concepts at play. Choose electronic toys that stimulate creativity and development of basic skills that children can apply to future career opportunities as well as more immediate school lessons.

When considering what is the appropriate use of technology in early childhood education, it’s vital to consider an individual child’s specific needs. Assistive technology (AT) is a great tool for kids with all types of special needs. Laptops, alternative keyboards, audiobooks and other kids’ electronics products may help children with learning and physical disabilities.

Some schools allow the use of fidget devices to help with stimulation and keep kids centered. Timers may also help some children learn how to pace themselves better in various tasks.

Specialized devices and programs exist to help in all areas of education. For example, phonetic spelling software assists kids who may find reading a challenge, large or talking calculators are fun and functional for math homework, and visual or audio software may be an essential aid for children who are hearing or sight impaired. Assess what would make your child’s life easier, then talk with their teacher about bringing AT tech into the classroom as well as into your home.

Giving kids some ownership of their technology can encourage them to learn to use it to the best of their abilities. A personal laptop, calculator or tablet allows children to learn and create at their own pace and in their own way. Check with teachers to see if they welcome this sort of tech in the classroom.

Make sure they have technology and devices they can safely use on their own. That means that it should have restrictive software to keep them on appropriate sites and protective cases to prevent damage. Talk with your child about how to use the internet safely and how to treat their devices with care.

To keep them from getting distracted, pick headphones that work for your child. Make sure they comfortably fit your kid’s ears and won’t damage their eardrums. Also, select colors and designs that children find fun, so they’re more likely to use the gadgets and tech you buy.

You can figure out how to manage your child’s screen time with educational technology as well. Kids of all ages should stay physically active, and there are some devices that promote healthy activity and movement. Use hands-on toys like science experiments, art projects and building blocks, then document them digitally for your child to be proud of later. Have your kid use a pedometer with gamification features that reward exercise. You can even buy video game systems and games that require movement to use so that children don’t remain sedentary for long periods of time.

Some apps and activities driven by technology encourage social interaction. This is important as a child develops and grows, and you or other kids should use this tech in collaboration with your child. Encourage kids to learn about teamwork through gadgets that children use together or in a group.