Media Message

Early Computer Use Promotes Cognitive Development

Preschool-age children who use computers are believed to develop better preschool concepts and thinking skills, according to a new study from the medical journal Pediatrics. The study, which examined 122 children ages 3 to 5 years who had access to a computer, found that these children performed better on measures of school readiness and cognitive development.

How frequently they used the computer or if the children owned other electronic or video games did not affect this relationship, according to the researchers. The study also did not find a correlation between computer use and visual motor or gross motor skills among the same children.

For more information, visit the Medem Medical Library for articles including “Media Guidelines for Parents” at: http://www.medem.com/medlb/article_detaillb.cfm?article_ID= ZZZGVL4PQ7C&sub_cat=17.

(Source: American Academy of Pediatrics)