Report outlines the role of technology in child development

Indeed, the majority of parents (91%) believe it is important for children to be familiar with current technology and software, and that it will be beneficial as they get older.

Despite this, 71% of parents still like to monitor the amount of time their children spend using technology.

Traditionally, parents have often agonised over how much time their kids spend using gadgets, but as technology develops, an overwhelming proportion of parents now recognise the necessity of kids getting to grips with it, and being comfortable in a digital world.

Three quarters (74%) of parents admitted that using technology had helped improve their children’s problem solving skills, while more than one in two (56%) believe technology has bettered their motor skills.

Two-thirds (67%) of parents felt the use of technology had improved their children’s literacy skills as they now read more, while 46% felt it has enhanced their language skills, with applications such as voice command and Siri now commonplace.

Mark Kelly, Marketing Manager at LaptopsDirect.co.uk said: “Incorporating gadgets such as tablets, laptops and smartphones into interactive play with children is a good way to familiarise them with today’s technology. There are plenty of apps designed to boost literacy, mathematical and motor skills in children. It’s great to see the vast majority of parents recognise the importance of familiarising kids with gadgets at a young age.

“Parents’ concerns about their children being behind their peers if denied access to technology shows that they understand how important it is for their children to be able to interact with the latest gadgets, as school learning and tests become more technology based.”

Parents believe their children should be of high school age (11 years old) before they own their own smartphone or tablet with internet capability.

LaptopsDirect.co.uk is the UK’s largest online laptop specialist, selling a wide range of new and refurbished laptops from leading brands, as well as a wide range of other lifestyle gadgets.