There’s a lot of information flowing about some of our conceptions/misconceptions about the “digital divide” and what young children actually need.  Articles in the NY Times  point out some of the things those most involved with developing digital technology and media have to say about their own children.

So, which organizations are trustworthy? Which give good information on one aspect, but not on others? Which are founded by pediatricians or other health professionals who might have a more global view of children’s health than communications professionals do?

Some questions to ask:

Does the site:

• Assume that recreation and family time equals screen-time?
• Provide suggestions for other forms of family time?
• Look like an advertisement for movies and video games?
• Point to recommendations of pediatricians and psychologists and help us work with them?
• Give tools that can be adapted to your situation or have a one-size-fits-all approach?
• Represent an independent viewpoint or have a connection to the entertainment industry?
• Encourage you to make a choice based on values or “popular culture” norms?

Here are some sites you can try the test on:

https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/138/5/e20162591

www.commonsensemedia.org

http://www.fairplayforkids.org

Have a look yourself and add other questions that you have. Are different sites useful in different ways? It would be great to hear from you!