Julie Edwards’ daughter brought home a Chromebook from school in second grade to do work in math and reading apps. But as soon as she cracked it open, she started watching Youtube videos and playing Minecraft. Soon, Julie realized she was spending a lot of time on screens in the classroom, too.
Research shows that too much screen time can hurt children’s development and mental health. But since the pandemic, schools have used more and more technology, from learning apps for math and reading to Youtube videos for music and story time. As early as kindergarten, children receive tablets or laptops to take home from school.
Parents in districts across the country, including in Los Angeles Unified School District, are organizing to limit screen time in school.
Guests:
- Julie Edwards, parent, Schools Beyond Screens
- Mallika Seshadri, reporter, EdSource
Read more from EdSource:
Education Beat is a weekly podcast hosted by EdSource’s Zaidee Stavely and produced by Coby McDonald.
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