Can computers, smart phones or tablets help with language development?

Who would not agree that computers, smart phones and tablets are wonderful inventions? They can help us and save time in many ways, but many people may ask "can they help our children learn language?" As usual, the answer is “maybe”.

Using games and apps that are at or slightly above your child’s language level and that encourage active participation (verbal responses from your child) may be helpful in encouraging language development. To determine what that level is, you need to go through the games and apps with your child, asking them questions to make sure they know and understand directions and that they are getting something out of the programs. As always, talking with your child, playing word games, singing, saying rhymes and finger-plays, and most of all reading, will help your child learn language.