Blessings: the iPad (Day 8)
I told you on day 1 that not every day of blessings would be the deepest. Today, I’m simply thankful and feel blessed because of iPads. Let me explain.
When I was expecting Flash, we decided to buy an iPad so I’d be able to do my online teaching work from somewhere more flexible than the computer. I assumed I’d be able to carry it around and answer student needs while tending to a toddler and a newborn.
As could be expected, my iPad was eventually “stolen” by the Animal. It was easier to let him play with it than to fight him all the time. I actually got (and still get) more work done during his awake hours if he has a few minutes to play a game or watch a quick video.
Then, when Flash was old enough to understand that these iPad things were pretty cool, he began stealing my iPad from his brother. Aaron and I quickly discovered we needed another one in the house. We saved our pennies, found a good refurbished iPad deal, and now both boys have one to use so there are fewer fights and arguments. (And don’t worry – Miss Sassy Pants didn’t get left out. She has my old computer and her school system just assigned students their own iPads.)
So why are these iPads such a blessing? Not only are they giving my kids a chance to play some really educational games or watch videos that are teaching them — wait for it — HEBREW, but they are learning some techy skills and even how to help one another. In fact, as the Animal becomes more and more obsessed with Angry Birds (seriously, every. waking. moment), Flash becomes more and more interested. Today, I caught this sweet moment in the kitchen as the Animal helped Flash figure out the navigation of the game.
Any technological advances that have really helped you or your family? Even if it’s for something kind of trivial like Angry Birds?
First it was the portable dvd and now its the ipad for us as well.