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Computers 'can help children develop'

Posted on 22nd May 2009

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The use of a computer during, before or after preparatory school age can be beneficial to a child's development, it has been noted.

Issy Cole-Hamilton is head of policy research and programmes at Play England. She said if incorporated into leisure activities, computers can help youngsters to further their skills for the workplace.

But moderation is key, she added.

"It's just a matter of getting a balance between going out and about and actually experiencing the real world outside, rather than just experiencing a fake world."

Ms Cole-Hamilton went on to say that some children may not go out and play as much as they would like to.

Her comments follow an address given by John Gibson, chairman of the Independent Schools Association, at the group's conference earlier this month.

He said some youngsters are "glued" to mobile phones and Playstations, so may therefore be missing out on other experiences.