What Effect Do Virtual Reality Devices Have on My Child’s Development?

- User Submitted

Okay. We have a question here on using virtual reality devices and the potential effect that may have on their development.

There are a lot of different components to virtual reality. Some virtual reality can actually help children develop skills, so it depends on what the VR is being used for.

In fact, I’ll share a personal story. A couple of years ago, my son wanted one of those virtual reality devices. Interestingly, he created a PowerPoint presentation to show us some of the research, including the benefits and limitations. For example, you can only use VR for a certain amount of time before needing to take it off.

He did the research, presented it to us, and even helped pay for the device. It was helpful to see that he had taken the initiative. I think understanding time usage and what the child is doing with VR is key. Some of the movement and interaction in VR can be quite impressive.

So, if your child is asking for VR, you might say, “Do the research so we can understand the limitations and then talk about it.” Having structure and open dialogue with your child is really important.

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Dr. Kevin Skinner