Screens and Your Child’s Future: Is Early Tech the Key?
Reader’s Question:
“Are video games a type of play for young children? Can electronic devices assist in the holistic growth of children? I hear many conflicting responses, but mostly about the adverse effects on children. Technology is in all spheres of life. To my mind, the earlier my children master these devices, the more prepared and secure their future. What do you think?”
Dear Parent,
This is such an honest and important question—thank you for bringing it up. You're right, technology is woven into nearly every aspect of modern life, from education to careers to daily routines. As parents, it’s only natural to want our children to feel confident and prepared for the digital world. So let’s unpack your question together.
Yes—Video Games Can Be Play
When we think of play, we often imagine swings, LEGOs, or make-believe tea parties. But video games, especially those designed for children, can be considered as play too. They can spark imagination, improve hand-eye coordination, and help kids practice problem-solving and even teamwork.
Think of a child building a virtual city in Minecraft or solving puzzles in an educational app—these are digital forms of exploration and learning. Like physical toys, games vary widely in quality and content, so what matters most is how, what, and how long your child plays.
Can Devices Support Holistic Growth?
Surprisingly to some—yes, they can. Devices can support literacy through interactive books, build numeracy through gamified math practice, and even foster creativity through drawing, music, and storytelling apps.
That said, holistic development also includes emotional awareness, physical activity, and face-to-face social interaction. No app can replace a walk in the park, giggles with a friend, or cuddling with a parent during story time. So yes, devices can support growth—but they shouldn’t be the only source of it.
Early Exposure: Does It Guarantee Future Success?
Here’s the heart of your question: “If my kids start early, will they be more secure and prepared for their future?”
That’s a very reasonable thought. And yes, comfort with technology will be a key asset. But here’s the key: early mastery isn’t the only path—or even the most effective one. What matters more is guided, intentional use over time.
A 3-year-old doesn’t need to navigate a tablet like a tech whiz to succeed later. What they need are strong foundations: curiosity, focus, problem-solving, and social-emotional skills. These will serve them in tech-rich environments—and everywhere else.
Finding the Balance: What You Can Do
- Explore together. Watch, play, and talk about what your child is doing on screen.
- Choose high-quality content. Not all screen time is equal. Look for apps and games with educational or creative value.
- Create boundaries. Set screen limits and keep tech out of bedrooms and mealtimes.
- Don’t forget “real world” play. Dirt, crayons, books, and blocks are still essential tools for growing brains.
- Give responsibilities. Assign age-appropriate indoor and outdoor chores to keep them actively occupied and learning and growing.
Early Monitoring Prevents Future Overuse
While early exposure to technology can support development, careful monitoring is essential. We are witnessing a global trend where teens struggle with screen overuse and even device addiction—issues rooted not only in content but in the habits formed early on.
By introducing screens with structure and intentionality, we can lay the foundation for discerning use—the ability to choose when, why, and how to use digital tools meaningfully. Setting clear boundaries, modeling healthy habits, and encouraging diverse play from the start can help children grow into teens who use technology thoughtfully, not compulsively
Final Thoughts
Technology isn’t the enemy—it’s a tool. And like any tool, it's most powerful in the hands of a wise guide. That’s you.
So yes, let your children explore the digital world—but do it guided by you. That’s how they’ll not only survive the future but thrive in it.