Debate: Should Children Have Access To Technology?

On a previous blog post, I wrote about how even young toddlers are using technology. Some of my readers were skeptical about whether or not this was true. As a millennial born in the 90's I grew up with a computer, television, and gaming console. However, I was not constantly connected to these items since they mostly were large and stationary.  Nowadays, we have smartphones which transform from a gaming console to a T.V with the tap of a button. 


Instead of going outside to play, kids are entertained by apps like Netflix on mobile devices.  According to The Guardian, "Children today spend half the time their parents did playing outside".  Furthermore, they own and have constant access to these portable devices at a much younger age than previous generations.  

My dad got his first cell phone at age 20. By the time I was 12, I already had my first phone. Granted it only had four numbers, which dialed preset numbers, but it was a phone nonetheless.  Today, children as young as 5 years old have likely already interacted with a smartphone or tablet. 

Although it may mean that kids are spending less time outside, there are also some benefits to allowing technology access and ownership at a young age. Take a look at 4 year old Roman, who saved his mother's life by unlocking her iPhone and calling 911 using Siri.  If Roman did not know how to unlock the phone with her fingerprint and use Siri, his mother may not have survived.

Do you think children should have access to smart devices?

Should young children have access to technology?

Yes

No

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 If so, what age is appropriate for them to have their own device? 

What age should a child get their first phone at?

Before their 5th birthday

Between 5 and 10 years old

Between 11 and 14 years old

After their 15th birthday

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I look forward to seeing your comments on this controversial topic.