I’m an avid reader of the NY Times… Advertorials on the other hand – not so much. This article, however, made me feel conflicted so I wanted to share it with you and perhaps get opinions.
Here it is, in the open, a story about a wonder gadget, telling us our kids have got to have it. MobiGo Learning System is what it’s called. It’s bright, and sleek, and everything your little geek would dream about. It keeps your kid busy in the back seat of the car while you, for once, enjoy a silent ride. But wait a second, is this really a toy for your kid or is it maybe just a way of passing the buck?
Just a few days ago I posted an article on what to do with toddlers that just won’t sit still at a restaurant. Creative parents usually come up with games without any outside help. As long as there are pencils, or crayons and a piece of paper, your kid is set, and you get a chance to do one more activity together. You distract your toddler, yet you communicate and help your kid learn new things. My parents used to sing songs to me whenever I was frustrated, or we’d play word games, and not once did they use television or computers as a distraction factor.
But here’s the thing. As I’m typing this, I’m surrounded by gadgets and gadget worshippers, me being one of them. So can it be that what I see as a good child rearing model is a little outdated? Maybe letting our kids learn gadgets early will give them a headstart or simply make them feel comfortable in the brand new gadget world. Maybe songs and board games just don’t cut it anymore?