by Leigh Goessl

Created on: February 21, 2010   Last Updated: March 03, 2012

Technology continues to grow at a rapid rate. The current generation of children has never had the opportunity or experience to grow and learn in a pre-technological age.

That being said, it is hard for children today to perceive a world that existed pre cell phones, Internet, iPods, cable TV (and movies on demand), video game consoles, microwaves and a host of other technology gadgets that are used and taken for granted daily. It would probably be rather difficult for kids to adjust to life if technology were to suddenly disappear.

There are many pros and cons for children growing up in a technology age. Here are a few of the top advantages and disadvantages:

*Pros

>Empowerment

A positive effect of technology is the way innovation provides kids with the tools they need to solve problems. This empowers them to figure out solutions and obtain information they seek. Children today can independently learn due to the innovative techniques technology offers.

>Teaching Tool

Much of the computer software today is not designed just for fun, but for learning too. These kinds of programs are terrific tools to use in developmental learning and to nurture creativity.

There are many software programs that offer math, reading, language, history, science and many other topics kids need to learn and they can do this is a safe, yet fun, environment.

In addition, technology creations, such as video or PC games, are great ways for kids to collaborate, experience teambuilding and how to take turns.

>Prepares the for the Future

Like it or not, technology is the wave of the future. Today's kids will be tomorrow's leaders and working members of society. The future generations will need to effectively be able to understand, work with and navigate technology; not to mention develop newer innovations. Kids who don't learn technology today will find themselves far behind before they reach middle school.

*Cons

>May Hinder Health

Technology is often attributed to health problems in children. To a degree this is true. It is not that technology per se causes negative health effects, but rather the fact technology leads to a sedentary lifestyle.

Childhood obesity is on the rise and this is largely probably due to the fact kids today no longer spend a lot of time running around the neighborhood or playing outside games. Partially this is due to technology, where the other part is due to increased fear in society . Whichever the reason, technology is the substitute to fill the day

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