Reflections on Children's Digital Engagement and Historical Photographic Books
The article discusses observations of young children increasingly using digital devices like phones and iPads in public spaces such as parks. It references an exhibition titled 'Click' by children's literature historian Leonard Marcus at The Eric Carle Museum earlier this year, which explored photographic children's books. The author draws parallels between contemporary digital imagery consumed by toddlers and historical photographic works from around 1930, questioning whether new media represent a threat to traditional methods or simply new visual approaches. The piece includes images from a vintage book featuring simple, everyday objects photographed with deliberate composition.
Key facts
- Children are frequently observed using digital devices in public parks
- Leonard Marcus curated the exhibition 'Click' at The Eric Carle Museum
- The exhibition examined photographic children's books and their imaginative value
- A historical book from approximately 1930 features photographs of ordinary items
- The author questions whether new digital media are replacing conventional visual education
Entities
Artists
- Leonard Marcus
Institutions
- The Eric Carle Museum
Locations
- Madison Square Park