One Minute Reader logo

Blog

Is There an Upside to Screen Time?

May 25, 2023

As a mother of four young children who are drawn to the iPad like moths to a flame, it’s a little hard for me to write a blog post about the upside of screen time. Mostly I see the iPad as a frequent source of conflict in my house. My kids want to play games or watch shows on it, and I want them to do things I’ve deemed more meaningful—read books, play outside, build with Legos, or, dare I even dream it, pick up their room. Indeed, plenty of research confirms the negative consequences of too much screen time, which is why so many parents find themselves fighting this battle with their children day after day.


So where is the upside? When kids use One Minute Reader on a computer or tablet, they have audio support for unknown words, plenty of content at a level that will challenge but not frustrate them, a motivating system for tracking progress, a game-like interface to keep them engaged, and more. This system makes reading enjoyable while offering kids the support they need to improve quickly. Furthermore, the “moth to the flame” phenomenon works in everyone’s favor. Students are so drawn to the program on the screen, they are more motivated than ever to work on fluency. If this is the end result, and a screen can help achieve it with increased efficiency, I’d call that an upside for sure.


If screens (in moderation!) are a part of your children’s lives, consider a well-developed, tried-and-true educational program like One Minute Reader. The whole program, with dozens of high-interest stories, is just a click away for $8/month. If your kids are game lovers, you might also want to check out the fun, vocabulary-boosting Splat-o-Nym app for the iPad.


As summer approaches, we hope your screen time battles are minimal and that One Minute Reader is a solution everyone can agree on.

Highlighted Posts

By Madeline Waters 03 Sep, 2024
Reading is a fundamental skill that opens doors to endless possibilities for children. As parents, we constantly seek ways to nurture our children’s reading abilities, making the process both enjoyable and educational. The One Minute Reader program is a fantastic tool designed to foster independent reading skills in children. Here are some tips to help you introduce this program to your child seamlessly and effectively. Start with an Overview: Before diving into the program, take some time to watch the “How Does One Minute Reader Work” video together with your child. This video provides a comprehensive overview of the program and helps your child understand what to expect. Set Up a Reading Routine: Establishing a consistent reading schedule is often a game changer. Choose a specific time each day dedicated to using the One Minute Reader program. Whether it’s right after school or before bedtime, consistency helps in building a habit. Create a Comfortable Reading Space: Designate a cozy and quiet reading nook where your child can focus without distractions. A comfortable chair, good lighting, or maybe a white noise machine can make this space inviting. Work Through the First Story Together: Help your child get started by working through the first story together. This hands-on guidance will help them feel comfortable with the steps involved and build their confidence to continue on their own. Start with a Positive Attitude: Your enthusiasm for the program can be contagious. Present the One Minute Reader program as a fun and exciting activity rather than a chore. Celebrate this new journey with your child, emphasizing the enjoyment and adventure in reading. Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for your child. Start with shorter reading sessions and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. Celebrate small milestones to keep them motivated. Track Progress Together: Use the program’s tracking features to monitor your child’s progress. Discuss the improvements you both notice, and set new challenges together. This shared involvement can boost your child’s confidence and motivation. Celebrate Achievements: Celebrate your child’s reading achievements, no matter how small. Whether it’s a special treat or a simple acknowledgment, recognizing their efforts reinforces positive behavior and encourages continued progress. Introducing your child to the One Minute Reader program can be a rewarding experience that sets the foundation for a lifelong love of reading. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, you can help your child develop essential reading skills while fostering their independence and confidence.
A mother comforting her son.
By Madeline Waters 10 Jun, 2024
Boost your middle schooler's reading skills with age-appropriate content, fluency practice, and more. Discover effective strategies and the One Minute Reader program for reading success!
By Anne Hauth 21 Mar, 2024
Summer calendars tend to get very busy, despite many parents' best attempts to give their children plenty of unstructured free time. Quiet time to read might not earn a spot on the family calendar, but it should be highly prioritized nonetheless. Here are some tips to entice your kids to make reading part of their daily summer routine.
Show More

Ready to see an improvement in your child's reading?

Sign up today and get seven days for FREE.

Sign up now!

One Minute Reader is just $8 per month after your free trial.

Share by: