Are you among the many parents who are concerned about kids spending too much time on their smartphone?
There is some new research you should know about. This new study by scientists at the University of Cambridge says smart voices like Siri and Alexa that we all talk to can negatively affect kids’ thinking, social learning skills and even compassion.
They found that talking to smart voices instead of real people can make it harder for kids to learn how to socially interact. And that’s more important now after kids have spent so much time away from each other and on their phones during the pandemic.
When children talk with a real person, the scientists say, kids usually get constructive feedback if they’re rude or say inappropriate things, but a smart voice doesn’t do that.
The researchers point out these smart voices don’t teach kids how to behave politely because there’s no expectation of a “please” or “thank you” and no need to consider the tone of voice.
These smart voices are only designed to search for answers to questions. They’re not designed to be parents. Just put that question to Siri.
(Photo Getty Images)
Photo: Getty Images