According to a recent survey, on an average, children are 12.1 years old when they receive their first mobile device. Also, 56% children between the age of 8 and 12 have a cell phone. And 51% of young teens(13-17) use social media.
Mobile devices are ubiquitous these days. They are so easy to use, that even a 3 year old can use one! Going online opens up a whole new world. The internet has practically no borders. Parents, therefore, must thoroughly monitor their children’s activities and regulate and control the time their child spends online. Most social media websites, in any case, insist that the user must be atleast 13 years old.
As long as parental controls and strict monitoring are in place and a child’s health and safety is not compromised, social media is an effective learning environment for children.
Here are a few ways in which mobile devices and social media can help your 11-year old learn online, develop as an individual and also score good grades:
- Fun learning:
Most eleven-year old are at ease with gadgets. A mobile tablet could help a child grow academically and score good grades by staying updated with schoolwork, exchange concepts about a science project, or even co-ordinate an academic activity with her peers. Students can supplement their school education using social media. Students preparing for Standardized Tests like the OLSAT, NNAT and the JHU-CTY SCAT can interact on social media with their peers and test prep tutors to improve their test taking skills.
Some great social media apps for children include Edmodo (free, iOS and Android, for collaborating on academic projects), Disney Club Penguin (7 years and up, free, iOS, a family friendly app for games, chatting) Everloop8 – (15 years and up, free, iOS) among others.
- Creative and Social outlet:
Being on social media and interacting with other like-minded kids can help children develop their creative side in music, art, craft or even dancing. Doing so, they can befriend artists from other parts of the world. Going forward, they can learn about other cultures and arts.
- Tech Literacy:
Being online allows children to get comfortable with the latest technology. Social media is one of the major uses of smart phones. It is easier and convenient to access information, provide information and communicate via social media. Teachers and students connect to each other and make good use of these platforms for the working of their education.
In conclusion, human beings are social creatures. These social media apps and tools help children integrate socially and develop these skills. If parental controls are in place, it’s an excellent idea for 11 year olds to be on social media.
