HEADS-UP: Be advised that recent research reported in the Early Childhood Education Journal finds that, “Toddlers who demonstrated a greater ability to pretend wound up having fewer emotional and behavioral problems by the time they entered grade school…” It goes on to report: “Higher pretend play ability at ages 2 and 3 is associated with better mental health as kids age into elementary school.”
An old school, cell phone solution: The Tin Can Phone: “The new-school landline for friends. No talk, no smarts. No apps, texts, stranger danger, surprises…”
One: A New Mexico jury recently fined Meta $375 million for engaging in “unconscionable” trade practices that took advantage of vulnerable kids’ inexperience.
Two: A recent education technology survey of 596 educators by the EdTech Research Center found that:
** 50% said ed tech negatively impacts kids’ social-emotional development, overall well-being, mental health, and behavior.
*** 55% said ed tech has a positive impact on learning.
** 61% said most parents feel there’s too much tech in schools.*
** 37% said the amount was “just right.”
** At least 17 states are considering a pause in ed tech.
Three: Recently, the EdWeek Research Center found that:
** 29% of the surveyed educators said technology improves learning.
** 36% said it hurts learning.
Four: Finds a recent PDK poll, 70% of parents DO NOT support having AI store and analyze student grades, assessment data, and any other personal information.
Five: According to a recent Gallup, Walton Family Foundation, and GSV Ventures survey:
** 65% of K-12 students said that their schools allow them to use AI for school assignments, up from 55% in 2025.
** 49% said they’re allowed to access AI tools on school computers, up from 36% in 2025.
** 41% said most of their classmates use AI when they’re not supposed to.
Six: Lending Tree finds that the national average cost of raising a child over 18 years now costs $303,418.
~ With thanks, Carol
