Computer Time Versus Play Time

As a new contributor to DC Metro Moms, I feel that all of my posts so far have to deal with the conflicts I face as a parent- summer camp versus the freedom of an unplanned summer and what to do about an ailing rabbit. 

My daughter’s hand-me-down computer arrived this week.  The Future Home of the Computer is located in our home’s main hub, a high traffic area near the kitchen and living room.  Little Miss Techie and Captain Computer spend lots of time playing in these areas.  I worry that putting the computer near the living room where a majority of play occurs will negatively impact the amount of imaginative play that occurs.

The importance of play has been getting lots of press recently from news sources like NPR and The New York Times Sunday Magazine. I take play seriously. I believe that unstructured imaginative play builds skills in children. After all, children learn by doing. Play is what children do. Play helps children make sense of the world around them.

So my belief in the importance of play and the arrival of Little Miss Techie’s computer causes some serious internal conflict. Actively engaging in play and sitting in front of a computer are about as opposite as any two things can be. My worlds are colliding and forcing me with an interesting dilemma.

While play is wonderful, computers are part of our lives.  That will never change.  Exposing Little Miss Techie to technology now by letting her access the internet, use word processors, and use drawing programs teaches her skills that she will need throughout life.  I know that technology can have a positive impact on children and their learning.  I’ve witnessed it in the classroom and by watching Little Miss Techie.

I just don’t think I’m ready for the possibility of the computer replacing Little Miss Techie’s imaginative play.  I cherish the meals that Little Miss Techie makes for me in her play kitchen.  I know a time will come where I won’t be invited to tea parties or puppet shows. 

I just don’t want that time to come too soon.

Crossposted in a different form on Leticia’s personal website Tech Savvy Mama. Originally posted on the DC Metro Moms Blog