The truth is, learning from screens simply can’t match the benefits of learning from paper.
Screens are a big part of our lives now, but did you know that learning from paper offers many more benefits for our kids? Studies have consistently shown that reading and writing on paper helps children understand, remember, and focus far better than when they’re on screens. It turns out that paper books and notebooks aren’t just old-fashioned – they actually give our kids’ brains a real boost, making learning more effective and meaningful.
1. Better Retention and Understanding
Research shows that reading from paper helps kids remember what they learn much better than reading from screens. In fact, studies found that younger students have lower comprehension skills when reading digital texts. While screens can be useful for teaching some basic skills, they don’t promote the kind of deep thinking and focus that paper does.
A study by neuroscientists at Columbia University discovered that kids’ brains understand written text better when it’s on paper instead of on a screen. So, when it comes to helping our kids truly understand what they read, paper definitely has the edge!
2. Less Eye Strain
We’ve all heard about the headaches and discomfort that come from staring at screens too long. For our little ones, whose eyes are still developing, learning from paper can help reduce the risk of digital eye strain and the increase in myopia (nearsightedness) that’s been on the rise. Reading from paper offers a more comfortable experience, allowing them to focus without the strain and discomfort often associated with screen time.
3. Improved Focus
Let’s face it: screens are full of distractions. Digital devices encourage skimming, making it easy and tempting for our kids to swipe to another page or get sidetracked by games or social media while they’re supposed to be studying.
Moroever, it’s hard for us as parents to track what they’re really focusing on —by the time we get to them, they’ve likely clicked away from the site. By encouraging our children to engage with paper materials instead, we can help them develop better concentration and stay focused on their learning.
4. Easier Organization
Many kids find it easier to organize their thoughts and ideas on paper. Research continues to show that taking notes the traditional way—with pen and paper or even a stylus on a tablet—is still the best way to learn, especially for young children.
One study in Frontiers in Psychology found that students who wrote by hand had more electrical activity in various parts of their brains responsible for movement, vision, sensory processing, and memory. This means that writing by hand engages their brains more than typing does. Paper allows children to see all their notes in one place, making it easier to review and connect ideas. There’s no need to switch between tabs or scroll, which often happens on screens.
5. Building Important Skills
Writing school work out by hand also has cognitive benefits that typing on a screen does not —they’re vital for cognitive development!
When kids physically write down their notes, they connect better with the material, making it easier to recall later. It also enhances fine motor skills and creativity.
These activities stimulate brain activity, leading to better understanding and retention of information. By encouraging your child to engage in handwriting and drawing, you’re not only supporting their academic growth but also nurturing their imagination and problem-solving abilities.
Screens are making swiping the new norm, and because of this, kids are losing the deep reading skills that are so important for reading and literacy development.
As parents, it’s important to find a balance between digital and traditional learning methods. While screens offer easy access to information, let’s not overlook the benefits of learning from paper. It’s time to grab some colorful pens, highlighters, and a notebook for your child, so they can start creating their own notes!
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