Playing with electronic devices

Which age is ideal to introduce electronic devices?

Do we know how much time we should allow children to use them?

How should we limit their time using the devices?

How much damage could it cause if they used it too often, and for too long?

Is it good for them at all? Do they really need it?

We didn’t really know of their existence when we were young. Would you let them use electronics at all?

Have you ever thought about these questions, or do you unconsciously just give them your phone/iPad to keep them quiet? Will this turn into a daily habit without you realising it?

I have had families where children (ages 3-8) could spend an unlimited amount of time on their electronic devices. Other families allowed them to have 1-2 hours per week.

Is there a middle ground?

What do you think? How should this work without getting your children addicted to them?

These days, children may even receive iPads from school, on which they have to do their homework and learn on. Some exercises are required to be done on their computers. Sooner or later, everything will be digital. They will have to adapt, but do you have enough control to limit their usage?

There are many good games, stories and learning apps available that could help in their development, but do we know which one are the best?