Look For Tech Toys to Educate and Entertain

When it comes to playthings today, smartphones and tablets are just as popular with children as traditional toys and games.

These tech devices appeal to little ones who were born “wired” for everything new and technological and who also aspire to be just like their parents. In turn, parents say they find that sharing their own smartphones and tablets is a convenient way to occupy their kids.

According to Dr. Helen Boehm, an educational psychologist and the author of The Official Guide to the Right Toys nearly 40 per cent of parents have said they are likely to use their own tablets or smartphones to entertain their kids.

“To leverage this incredible interest, I recommend that parents select child-friendly and age-appropriate learning products that mimic those of adults, but are specifically created for young kids.”

Boehm suggests devices with apps designed to meet the cognitive and fine motor needs of young children. “In this way,” she explains, “children will be entertained while learning basic educational skills and feel capable and confident about manipulating their own tech device.”

Two good options she recommends are the new VTech InnoTab 3 and 3S learning app tablets. Each combines age-appropriate educational games, apps, and activities designed to promote creativity and enhance reading skills, all in a child-friendly, multi-function, touch screen tablet to make learning fun. The InnoTab 3S comes with added secure Wi-Fi technology allowing children to safely browse pre-selected and parent-approved websites. While designed specifically for kids, each also functions the same as a standard ‘adult’ tablet with a touch screen, built in camera and a tough, durable case to protect it from drops and spills.

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