We have all been there. I actually love technology and would like to offer up ideas for CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY use versus consumer (passive) technology use (although there is room for chilling out with a game periodically-after all, I like a good murder mystery every now and then.
The U.S. Dept. of Education's technology plan stresses, "All students understand how to use technology as a tool to engage in creating productive, lifelong learning rather than simply consuming passive content."
Benjamin Harold of Education Week, suggests using it in rotation with art materials, books & reading, writing materials, toys, social play & interaction, outdoor activity and more.
We should also take into consideration that each child is different and might prefer using technology in different ways. Some might want to do research, write a report or blog, create a website or video, digitally design or draw, create digital music, Facetime and more.
As a former educator, it is hard for me to watch the kids spending so much time passively consuming technology, so I am always trying to find ways to use technology creatively. After all, it is a part of every child's life, necessary for future professions, and a great educational tool.
BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY AND WATERCOLOR ACTIVITY
MATERIALS;
Iphone or camera
It helps to have a bird feeder to draw in birds
Watercolor paper
A beginner watercolor set such as Winsor & Newton Cotman pocket box, or Arteza pan set, both are around $15
Watercolor brush
DIRECTIONS:
Ezra had great fun capturing photos of cardinals, a woodpecker, chickadees, and more.
Cut the water color paper into 4ths.
Lightly sketch birds general shape with pencil.
Add watercolors (there are several great YouTube tutorials for kids such as Sarah Cray Let's Make Art).
LOOK for my next blog as we digitally visit Paris, bake French bread, watch the tour de France bike race, walk virtually under the Eiffel Tower and more.
