Parents are encouraged to think about the gifts they give to young children this holiday season. (file photo/paNOW Staff)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Holiday shopping

Parents of young kids urged to be conscious about digital toys

Nov 22, 2019 | 4:06 PM

The holiday season is not too far off and many will soon be hitting the stores for gifts.

For those looking to get something for young children, some groups are advising people to keep certain things in mind. In particular, adults should know kids from the ages of two to five need to have the time they spend using digital devices and toys limited.

Gail Szautner, executive director for Children’s Choice in Prince Albert explained digital devices don’t encourage young kids to interact with their surroundings and the people around them.

“When they’re totally tied to their screens, they’re not conversing with anyone,” she said.

Szauntner stressed developing social skills is especially important for young children as they are a major foundation for people as they grow.

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“Social skills are so critically important in the development [of] every other skill we need as adults,” she said.

Local philanthropist and business owner Malcom Jenkins, who has been an advocate for getting children active said the growth of technology has some downsides to it.

“I think the balance has tipped too far in favour of instant gratification,” he said.

Jenkins, who owns and operates the Canadian Tire in P.A., said conventional toys like Lego and Hot Wheels can provide kids a more stimulating experience.

“It makes the brain work too, rather than let the screen do it for you,” he said.

Jenkins stressed the best gift people can give to kids is something which gets them out and about to places like a zoo or a sporting event.

“I wouldn’t put something into their hands and then let them go sit in the corner,” he said.

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn