Mobile Tech Offering Safe and Fun Learning Opportunities for Kids
Your kids generally grab hold of your smartphone or other mobile devices when they need a source of entertainment. These interactive devices keep them occupied and can hold their attention for long periods of time. However, it’s important to realize that your tech tools can do more than entertain—they can also educate. With the right educational apps, parental controls and device protection, your mobile tech can double as an effective learning tool for your children. Here are some tips that will help you create a safe and fun educational experience for your kids with your mobile devices:
Smartphone
A smartphone is an easy and accessible tech tool that you can share with your kids. But you should always consider how fragile your phone is, especially in the little hands of your children. Protect your phone with a durable case that can withstand any accidental drops, so you can avoid screen scratches and shatters. Brands like OtterBox offer sleek and effective cases that will keep your valuable smartphone safe. Also, choose a phone that has many features and accessories your kids can use. The LG G5 comes with a stylus that can be used for reading and writing practice. It is also a great tool for drawing, so your child can be creative and make pictures just as they would with paper, only without the mess.
Tablet
There are a number of kid tablets on the market built specifically with your little one in mind. They can read and play educational games on a touchscreen that is larger than your smartphone. The Amazon Fire Kids Edition 7” Tablet has 16GB of storage for your kids’ favorite apps and books. It is protected with a kid-proof case that can withstand everyday wear and tear. The LeapFrog Epic is a tablet that comes with educational software for kids between the ages of 3 and 9. The content available on this 16 GB tech tool is created for kids based on their age with the aim of helping them reach new levels of knowledge. The Epic comes with a built-in stylus, a protective bumper and has parental controls. If you need a durable case for your iPad, there are a number of options, including the Speck- Iguy case. This cute case looks like a little creature with arms and legs. The design of this tool isn’t just for novelty, as it is helpfully configured to withstand impact and allow your kids grab a better hold of the device.
Kid Modes
Make sure each of your mobile tech devices has a parental control setting so you can protect your kids from any inappropriate content they may stumble upon. You can download apps that will allow limited access to the content on your or your child’s phone. Norton Family Parental Control provides web-filtering tools that will block any inappropriate sites or apps. Net Nanny is another app that will let you keep an eye on what your kid has been looking at and filter their access to specific features on the phone. On an Android phone, you can create separate user profiles for yourself and each of your kids. This feature allows for customized set-ups that include your kids’ favorite educational games, books and video content. Also, if your little one uses your personal phone, you should always keep your phone password protected. If you have to grant them access, it will help you stay more aware of their activities.