In the past few years, it has been widely recognized by both parents and early educators that the responsible and thoughtful use of technology can help engage children in critical skills that they need to develop. These skills include play, computational thinking, and self-expression, which will all be helpful tools that can help support their success later in life. Also, technology can help trigger and maintain a child’s natural curiosity.
The Department of Education also recognizes that families and educational institutions have many options for using technology with little learners. They believe guidance has to reflect the reality that families and educators can access apps, games, digital books, video call and chat software and other interactive tools that can be effective in helping shape young minds. The Departments have come up with four guiding principles that parents and educators can refer to when determining the proper use of technology with early learners.
Here, Bright Scholars Early Learning Academy, a trusted preschool in St. Cloud, FL, shares the four principles to guide you as you use technology with early learners:
“Technology—When Used Appropriately—Can Be a Tool for Learning”
Developmentally appropriate use of technology means utilizing technology in a way that benefits young children’s growth and learning. This can involve families and educators playing an active role in how children use technology to ensure that it is used in a safe and beneficial way. Technology can be used to help children explore, imagine, and actively participate in enjoyable and stimulating activities. Technology and technological tools can also be used to teach children how to play, think critically, and engage in pretend play.
Integrating technology into early education should be done with care, ensuring that it is used in coordination with other educational resources like art, writing, play materials, and books. This will open up opportunities for children to express themselves while providing various learning tools in the classroom.
“Technology Should Be Used to Increase Access to Learning Opportunities for All Children”
When used appropriately and with adult guidance, technology can be advantageous to young learners. It can provide children with access to a wide range of information and the opportunity to learn more about cultures and places outside of their immediate environment. Furthermore, technology should be tailored to children’s culture, allowing them to better understand and appreciate their culture.
Kids can be involved in the creation of educational materials by using technology. They can use it to create stories, express their thoughts and share their own life experiences, which will contribute to making the classroom more inclusive and culturally aware.
“Technology May Be Used to Strengthen Relationships Among Parents, Families, Early Educators, and Young Children”
Early childhood educators can use technology to foster stronger relationships with families. Digital portfolios that feature photos and videos provide teachers with a way to show parents what their child is learning in class. This technology gives parents more chances to observe their child’s development and can be a springboard for conversations about their child’s learning. Technology can also be used to share ideas with families on how to support what is being taught in class, such as email, text, and social media. By utilizing these tools, early childhood educators can create a more cohesive connection between school and home and ensure families are always informed about their child’s progress.
“Technology Is More Effective for Learning When Adults and Peers Interact or Co-View with Young Children”
When adults and peers are involved in the learning process with young children, technology can be used more effectively to teach and help them understand.
Children are more likely to learn from the content they view when they have an adult present who can interact and talk with them about it. This adult can help the child to make connections between what they are watching and the real world, both during the time they are watching and after.
Conclusion
Technology is indeed a valuable tool for early learners, as it can help to improve their understanding, increase their knowledge and develop key skills. However, it is vital for adults to use technology responsibly and thoughtfully when introducing it to young learners. Technology should be used as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, traditional teaching methods, especially in preschool. It should be used to enhance the learning experience rather than to distract from it. Adults should ensure that they are aware of the impact technology has on their children and monitor the amount of time they spend on devices.
Bright Scholars Early Learning Academy is a trusted preschool in St. Cloud, Florida, offering innovative yet affordable Christian education. Learn more about our programs today!