Tweens are extremely interested in technology. According to the Kaiser Foundation's 2010 study, 31% of 8-10-year- olds have cell phones and 69% of 11-14-year-olds have cell phones. Cell phones are popular among tweens due to their social capabilities: tweens use cell phones for social networking, texting, talking, gaming, tweeting, reading, watching videos, and the internet (Fasick 43).
There are many reasons why libraries should include
technology programming for tweens: Technology is high-interest for tweens, so it
can definitely increase their library use, as they will see the relevance of
the library in their lives. Using
technology can improve children’s skills in “problem solving, teamwork, decision-making, and the
development of fine motor skills and coordination” (Walton-Hadlock).
Popular Tech Programming Ideas for Tweens
Active Video Games
Many libraries currently provide video games for tweens and teens, and
some are creating programming around video games with tournaments using active
video games like Wii Fit games, Dance, Dance Revolution, and Xbox Kinect games,
to keep tweens coming into the library.
 |
|
|
Technology Workshops
Some libraries conduct ongoing technology sessions specific for tweens where kids can learn about the following technology-related topics:- Web 2.0 tools
- Apps for Tweens
- Internet safety
- Online and database research
- Social media
- HTML
- Web-based homework tutoring
- ESL resources
Apps for Tweens:
Best
Books for Tweens App
This
free app allows users to find new books and build a custom reading list.
Common Sense Media: Best Apps for Kids Ages 9-11
Best
Apps for Kids Ages 12-14
http://www.appolicious.com/articles/12860-the-worlds-most-comprehensive-list-of-ipad-apps-for-tweens-and-their-parents
Editors Best Tech of 2011: The coolest apps for tweens and big kids
http://www.coolmomtech.com/2011/12/coolest_apps_for_tweens_and_big_kids_2011.php#ixzz2WQis9Kzd
http://www.eschoolnews.com/2012/04/21/new-10-shiny-apple-apps-for-education/
Resources:
Walton-Hadlock, Madeline. "Tots To Tweens: Age-Appropriate Technology Programming For Kids." Children & Libraries: The Journal Of The Association For Library Service To Children 6.3 (2008): 52-55. Academic Search Premier. Web. 10 June 2013.
Fasick, Adele M. From Boardbook to Facebook. Libraries Unlimited. Santa Barbara, CA, 2011. Print.
Fasick, Adele M. From Boardbook to Facebook. Libraries Unlimited. Santa Barbara, CA, 2011. Print.
