TT - anyone else's distractible child get too distracted by the computer?

[klmama]

We thought using the computer would increase the attention span for math, but it seems we were mistaken. It actually takes longer. Aaauugghh!!!!!! So now, we have the most expensive math program we've ever bought causing more stress in my household. My dc usually insists on using the computer over the textbook, but today finally admitted that the computer is too distracting. Finally!!!!! I'm glad a little self-realization finally struck. Does anyone else have a child with this problem? Do you just have your dc watch the instruction online and do the rest in the book/on paper, or do you have them do it all from the book? Any suggestions for making this easier for my dc? TIA!

[Martha]

It's been my experence that the computer and electronics in general DEcrease overall attention span. Esp for boys. Actually, this is not new. I think there's quite a bit of science out there saying this tends to be true...

My oldest in particuliar gets terribly distracted and agitated after being on the computer, Wii, watching tv...

So, I almost never use the computer or tv for teaching.

My only exception was Rosetta Stone spanish. But then we got a new computer and the version I had wasn't compatible with Vista.

And I never let my under 11 yr olds on the computer at all. My 13 yr old is just now getting some time on it to type final drafts of papers and to do some ACT/SAT prep stuff.

Just me.. not judging those who do different, just saying that's what we do.:)

ETA: We ditched the Saxon DIVE cd's within a month. I borrowed some of the MUS DVDs and it didn't take long to see the same pattern. We stick to the textbooks now.

[KathyBC]

TT works surprisingly well for my distractible ds. Maybe it's just his age - he's 12 now - but he will actually sit for 45-60 minutes and complete the whole lesson, which is a big improvement from past years.

This is our first try at math done (mostly) independently of Mom. I sat beside ds for the first four lessons, to be sure he understood what was required. He uses headphones, so he isn't distracted by the noise of the younger kids. We have a small house, so Mom sees almost everything, lol; chances to do anything but TT are slim to none.

I don't know if any of those things are different from what you are doing, or are relevant to your situation. I think your idea of watching the lecture, then completing the work in the book could be just the ticket. After spending all that money, I hope you can find a way to make this work!! Good luck.

[Tammy]

my kids preferred the textbook. I think the guy on the lessons is a bit annoying though, LOL!

Tammy

[herbalgirl]

I have really noticed this with my 3 boys. I try to limit the amount of "screen time" they get. Once they get a taste of it, though, it is hard to stop. They almost go through withdrawl symptoms and are miserable!