Do Kids NEED Computers?

[Charlie]

It seems that increasingly, kids are moving away from natural play, with basic toys outside in the fresh air. Instead they are spending more time indoors watching TV, playing computer games and being sedentary.

I've had a couple of people today trying to convince me that I NEED to buy a DS for my four year old's next birthday in six weeks. There's no way! She needs to be out in the garden not spending time killing things on a game-she's going to be just five!!!

I'd like to hear your thoughts.

[MsThang]

Obviously, children can learn and grow just fine as they did for years without computers, TV, video games, or screens of any kind. In today's day, though, where increasingly schools and workplaces are integrating "screens" into learning and daily use, it is increasingly useful to have a kid who is comfortable with technology and not scared to explore it. It will make the new, screen-oriented world easier to live in for them.

[crammer]

Not all games are about killing but I do agree to a point. My youngest has a Nickbook, and she is aware there are times she can play with it and times for other things just the same. All in moderation, its not like you yourself are at a computer 24/7/365, right?

[Charlie]

See I guess that is the point. There is little value to the games, but proper computer usage is another matter. But that's a real computer, and not a Nintendo gaming system.

[silviana]

I agree that kids spend too little time outdoors but that's up to the parents surely? A child can just as easily spend all day watching TV as playing on a game or computer. Whatever it is, the parent should decide how often it's to be used.

[September]

Until a kid is at a point in their schooling when they need to start using a word processor, constant access to a computer at home is NOT a necessity. Outdoor activities require more supervision, but the physical activity is healthier and requires more imagination than gaming.

[foureyes]

I'm with the poster who says it's up to the parents to control how much time a child is on a game system, a computer or even watching television. Too many parents today are afraid to take charge of their children and it's ridiculous. We have a generation where the kids are predominantly bratty and spoiled because parents are too afraid they might hurt a child's self-esteem.

[silviana]

I have just experienced a teenager who was overweight and unhappy being taken in hand by his mother and made to limit his gaming. He "discovered" cycling, lost weight, joined a cycling club where he has made loads of new friends and he is now slim, muscular and brimming with confidence. He still plays his games, but for a limited time each day because his new love is cycling.

[smokey]

I don't think game consoles and computers are the same. I do think that kids NEED computers. It's a great way to learn new things that they can't do otherwise. I also think that school age kids need computers, I would say that most teachers send home homework that requires a computer.

[Isis]

I got my kids started on the computer at four by putting them on my lap and playing educational games with them. Computers are a big part of life including work nowadays and I want them to know how to use them. Now this is the thing, it is up to the parents to make sure their kids are not just sitting in front of them or games all day.