In today’s society many children are growing up with electronic devices at their fingertips, in contrast to previous generations. When used correctly, technology and interactive media improves the quality of children’s education and further develops a young child’s brain. 

The National Association for the Education of Young Children states that the best time for children to start using technology is from birth to the age of eight. This is because between birth and the age of three, brain development is the most rapid. Then the brain uses the foundation learned during that stage to further develop basic knowledge until the age of eight.

Technology in early childhood can be beneficial depending on the way it is If the child is monitored or given limitations and restrictions, electronic devices could excel the child’s knowledge and skills through educational games, such as Funbrain or Cool Math.

Sophomore Lillian Messina says, “My brother is in fourth grade and he uses a lot more technology than I did when I was in elementary school while technology is now used everyday. He says that everything is a lot easier using computers and that it is more fun to learn.”

Technology is now being implemented at younger and younger ages. Seminole County, for instance, is now implementing an initiative for its early level students to learn programming; as early kindergarten.

Cheryl Lemke, executive director of the Milken Exchange on Education technology, conducted an interview with Technology and Learning Magazine to explain why technology in the classroom is helpful. She states that electronic materials are more interactive and interesting to students, which stimulates them to learn the information. Generally, learning electronically is the easiest option ergo children prefer technology.

English teacher Theran Goodale says, “Technology is great for diversifying learning for students. All different types of tools are at your disposal when it comes to modern day technology. For instance if you have a learner that is artistically inclined you can use storyboard, if you have a learner that enjoys flashcards for memorization you can use Quizlet, if you want to do a fun review that is interactive with the students you can use Kahoot, the list goes on and on.”

Physical education programs now promote children, as well as adults, to get active and take part in physical activities. For example, smart watches such as Fitbit monitor heart rate and record distance and time of individual exercises.

As technology advances, the brains of young children continue to flourish. Additionally, children will be able to use their advanced knowledge in the future. By learning about different software programs, such as spreadsheets and drafting programs, at a younger age, children will acquire a basic understanding of technology and computers that they will be able to remember when they enter the the work force.

“Technology is here to stay, and education is meeting it with open arms,” says Goodale.