And make Scottish Borders Council publicly consult all parents, grandparents and teachers on their views.

Is it just us who are concerned about the increased schooling of our children with ipads? The way they have been rolled out at all levels in our schools without any consultation with parents. We are not asking that they should be banned. We just want that their daily use to be paused and the benefits and downsides reviewed by publicly surveying parents, grandparents and teachers.

We have our own concerns and have heard different concerns from other parents. For example, the lessening of basic handwriting and speaking face to face with people. Or the effect that screens and apps have on childrens' developing brains, or eye strain and blue light? There is also the increasing addiction to screens with ipad games and the friction the school ipad causes when brought home every day.  Some have been very concerned with the school sponsored Showbie chat room and all the subtle anxiety it may cause. And of course, the reduced time at school for all important fine motor skills; the traditional, practical skills that ultimately carry us through daily life. On the other hand, some say ipads are essential to the future jobs with which our children will be involved. While several teachers have said this technology makes their job easier.

Whatever your views, I think we can agree that the introduction of this technology, for schooling our children from as young as nursery level, is a new experiment. Now is the time to review the benefits, but more importantly the downsides before unintended and irreversible damage is caused.

If you agree, then please sign our petition to PAUSE the use of ipads in Scottish Borders schools and publicly survey all parents, grandparents and teachers on their views.