With smartphones, tablets, and other personal technology used by a majority of U.S. children today, managing the time spent with-and influence of-this technology can be a challenge for parents. As we head into the summer months, increased leisure time may lead to even greater use of technology. During May Is Better Hearing & Speech Month, I invite you to evaluate your child's technology use and establish (or re-commit to) some healthy limits and habits.

While technology holds positive promise in many areas, it is important to know that it is not a replacement for human communication. The primary way that young children learn is through verbal communication-listening, talking, reading, and interacting with their parents and others. It is also an important part of family connections-for children of all ages. According to a national survey of parents commissioned by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), a majority of parents are concerned that they have fewer conversations with their children than they would like because of technology and/or that technology negatively impacts the quality of conversations with their children. Many children are using technology during prime communication opportunities, such as at the dinner table or while on long car trips.

 Click Here to Learn 10 Tips for Managing Kids' Tech Time!