There have been a great number of technological advances that make our lives easier every day: computers, calculators, digital recorders, CD players, and all of the other gadgets that have become so commonplace. Without a doubt, many of these technological toys have become popular in classrooms- and for good reason! Books on CD's make difficult literature accessible for all levels of readers in a classroom. Computerized presentations draw reluctant learners into lessons. Even digital cameras are making their mark by allowing teachers and students to record their classroom activities on a daily basis!

However, as with all great things, there is an appropriate time and place for all good things. Schools are becoming more and more of a hotbed of technology- not in the classroom, but in students' backpacks. The hottest technology is popping up in student lockers all over the country, and in all grades. Often, in an attempt to get the best new items, children make promises of better grades, keeping in touch, and better organization- all through the newest gadget available. Before packing your child off to school with a new tool in their pocket, consider some of these issues:

1.) Does the school have any rules regarding technology? Most school have had to develop some types of rules or regulations regarding students' use of electronics in school. Many schools do not allow the use of cell phones, Blackberrys, pagers, camera phones, or other communication devices. Likewise, MP3 players, CD players, and other portable music players may be on the "banned" list, too. Though it may sound overly restrictive at first, consider that all of these items can lead to theft, cheating, or violations of privacy, and schools often are simply trying to be proactive by restricting these items in the first place.

2.) Is your child ready to handle the responsibility of technology on their own? As with many things, children are often more anxious to use technology than to see the consequences of poor choices. Before handing out a cell phone or Internet access without supervision, be sure to establish firm rules and boundaries with your child. For example, by setting limits on how much cell phone time is used each month and when the phone should be used, you will be able to monitor your child's maturity and ability to handle personal responsibility. This will give you the opportunity to praise success and keep your cell phone bill manageable, besides!

3.) Do we really need the newest technology available? Like adults, children often want the latest and greatest techno-toys they see in daily life. However, there are many gadgets that children simply do not need. Before investing often considerable amounts of money into the latest techno-fad, ask yourself if it's going to really make a difference in your child's life, or if it's just a spur-of-the-moment decision. Apart of the messages of advertising agencies, children can usually complete homework with dial-up Internet service, can use last season's cell phones to call home, and still listen to last year's i-Pod. Before sinking big dollars into the latest and greatest every season, take a look at what your child really needs to succeed. Upgrades can be used as incentives, or using the same item can be a lesson in frugality. Save yourself some cash, and still keep your child connected to yourself and their friends!

Technology- especially consumer electronics- are some of the greatest advances currently being made available to all members of American society. They can make our jobs easier, get us information faster, and keep us connected with friends and family. But through all of this, children, like adults, are not immune from the "gotta have it now" syndrome. Before considering those big-ticket purchases, take a moment to weigh the pros and cons of the latest goodies to decide if they're right for your family!