Choosing the right tablet for kids this Chanukah

(StatePoint) Everyone is using technology to stay connected these days-especially kids. And Chanukah is a great time to think about getting your kids a device to keep them plugged in and learning at the same time, like their very own tablet computer.

Parents worry mobile technology can be expensive, breakable and give users access to a world of information-not all of it kid-friendly. But that doesn't mean you should exclude the next generation from the tech trend, say experts.

"Technology can be intimidating for parents who aren't familiar with the wide array of choices available," says Dr. Eric Klopfer, toy development consultant and learning expert at VTech, a maker of age-appropriate and developmental stage-based electronic learning products for children. "But there are good options out there that can provide safe, fun, innovative, yet age appropriate experiences for young kids-if you know where to look."

Here are some things to consider when looking for new technologies for children this holiday:

• Kid-friendly tablet: A conventional tablet is a delicate, breakable instrument. But a kid-friendly tablet is tough, durable and able to withstand being handled by little ones.

• Safe messaging: Whether they are at daycare, a neighbor's house or across the country visiting grandparents, a tablet can help kids stay connected to their parents. And thanks to breakthroughs in kid-safe family networking, you can ensure your children are communicating only with people approved by you.

Preschoolers as young as three years old can emulate their parents and older siblings, allowing them to feel like they are part of the messaging trend by sending text and voice messages to parents' smartphones, all from a kid-safe, kid-friendly tablet.

• Safe browsing: With a kid-safe Web browser, kids won't be able to access inappropriate content, but can still explore the sites they love through an easy-to-navigate format.

• Educational content: You can give your kids full-time access to great educational content with the right downloads. Look for educator-approved fun and games.

This holiday season, you can help your kids stay on top of tech trends safely and securely.