iPad for Kids: Should I Get My Kid a Tablet? (2024)

FAQs

IPad for Kids: Should I Get My Kid a Tablet? ›

If a child isn't ready for a phone or laptop, then an iPad could be a great electronic device to allow them to access information and video content at home or while traveling. There is no specific age that kids can use iPads or other tablets and very young kids have no problem using the devices.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no devices for children younger than two, with the exception of video chatting. Even if your child is old enough, that doesn't necessarily mean an iPad is right for them.

Every child is different, and their readiness for technology varies. However, for parents who are looking to take the plunge, most experts agree that introducing a tablet around the age of two or three is generally a good starting point. That said, always keep in mind that “less is more.”

Most experts agree that children under the age of preschool do not need any technology, especially tablets or smartphones. After preschool, very limited use is more appropriate.

For younger children, a tablet has everything you need. It's perfect for catching up on shows, playing skill-building games and even, on some devices, FaceTiming family. They're easy to carry around and are often far cheaper than a laptop. A laptop, on the other hand, is more of an investment.

iPad: Strengths

Apple's operating system is extremely easy to use, powerful, and has an intuitive interface. iPads also enable close integration between devices. You can cut and paste between your iPad and Apple Laptop if both are running the latest Operating System. Android tablets are way behind in this area.

Another 23 percent said ages 9 to 11, and 17 percent said not until ages 16 to 18. Parents were far more divided on tablets. While 27 percent said they prefer ages 9 to 11 to give kids a tablet, 26 percent felt ages 6 to 8 were appropriate, and 23 percent chose ages 12 to 15.

An iPad helps keep the child distracted while the parent does whatever they need to do in the meantime. Parents must know that putting a screen in front of their child is bad, but it is a temporary fix to keep them distracted while the parent does something productive.

Children as young as 4 years old may have the ability to swallow small tablets and capsules as long as appropriate doses (amounts) are available for them. If your child is taking liquid medicine, you have the option of speaking with your doctor or pharmacist to see if the medicine is available as tablets or capsules.

What are the cons of children using tablets? ›

Excessive screen time can hamper children's communication and language skills. Children exposed to too much screen time have fewer opportunities to participate in face-to-face interactions that teach them facial expressions and emotional cues that benefit their early language development.

Early screen exposure has been associated with lower cognitive abilities and academic performance in later years. Language development is also affected by screen time, as it diminishes the quantity and quality of interactions between children and caregivers.

It is recommended to limit screen time for ages two to five to one hour per day, but I'm just not that kind of parent. My philosophy has always been to do what is best for your child, and this is absolutely the age I would start introducing a tablet, even if it's just your own with the child safety locks on.

iPads use the Apple iOS operating system while tablets use the Android operating system. This means iPads are better suited for students used to the iOS/Apple ecosystem, and tablets are preferrable to students using other Android devices and Windows applications.

Compared to Tablets, the iPad is said to work more smoothly and is easier to use. Students would actually prefer to work on something which wouldn't be very difficult to understand and they could get the hang of it easily. The iPad makes it easier for students to continue learning and developing.

Lazy parenting is about intentionally providing your child with opportunities to develop a sense of self-efficacy, which in turn will bolster confidence, independence and responsibility. It's about mindfully stepping back to allow your child to struggle on their own for a minute rather than rushing in and rescuing.

The age at which kids can best learn to swallow a pill varies. Try to avoid comparing your child with other kids, even siblings. In general, kids should be at least 4 years old and at a stage when they seem cooperative and motivated to learn new skills.

Yousuf said pediatricians generally recommend the following guidelines: Under 2 years old: Zero screen time, except for video chatting with family or friends. 2-5 years old: No more than one hour per day co-viewing with a parent or sibling. 5-17 years old: Generally no more than two hours per day, except for homework.