Agree with Jon about the iPad, mostly on account of the apps. We get a lot of mileage out of even the free kids' apps. And sometimes they find new ways to use apps for grownups too.
Mark A. McCutcheon March 14, 2012 - 8:15am
The iPad gives the most immediate as well as long-term benefits as it:
I have both iPad and Android (eee) tablets. Much as I try to love the Android as it accords better with my desire for flexibility and diversity, it is not even close to the iPad in terms of friendliness and usability. Superficially similar but in another much lower league, despite superior hardware specs.
Might be worth waiting for the new OLPC tablet, if it ever becomes possible to get your hands on one: incredibly cheap, innovative and child-proof, though still an Android device with very low specs. See http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2012/01/olpc-tablet-finally-arrives/
Jon Dron March 13, 2012 - 5:12pm
My 6 year old has Developmental Coordination Disorder and we use a Samsung Galaxy to afford him some freedom with printing practice (typing practice). There are strict rules around usage as well as the apps. We also have a limit on time. Regardless myself or my husband are always present when it is in use to monitor the activities.
Yes parental controls are an issue but there are some.
I believe like any tool proper monitoring and consequences is key to proper usage.
Karyn Mart March 13, 2012 - 12:50pm
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I will agree with Eric - those devices typically are a distraction for kids. single-purpose tools. Our experience is that given the device that can do "many things" distracts child at that age and doesn't let them concentrate on one thing since [s]he knows - there are toys and other things available on that same device.
Dmitry Makovey April 3, 2012 - 3:27pm