Paper still essential for children in digital age

The writer’s enthusiasm for a more sustainable environment in “Why do schools use so much paper in digital age?” (March 14) is laudable.

However, his plea to school authorities and children to achieve this by forsaking paper and embracing the digital age is worrisome. Learning to write in the traditional way is an essential part of early childhood development.

It is equally important to be able to maintain this habit throughout our lives. How handicapped would our children be if they are unable to express their thoughts without having some digital device at hand to type the words?

Limiting learning to a classroom environment and depending increasingly on electronic devices for schoolwork is also to blame, perhaps, for the high incidence of myopia in young children here.

It does not help when children turn to these devices for leisure too. My generation did not learn to use these devices until we were well into our teens, but seem to be coping well with all the latest technology.

The use of digital devices should, therefore, be introduced with caution. If we provide learning through more face-to-face interaction, critical thinking, real-life examples and outdoor play, our children would be healthier and more resilient in the face of modern challenges.