Technology is everywhere and children nowadays are exposed to it from very early in life. Introducing technology to your children is one way to prepare them for the future and engage in important skills such as self-expression and critical thinking.
But when it comes to preschoolers, the question of how to introduce technology to them safely and effectively can be a tricky one.
Here are some approaches for introducing technology to preschoolers in a way that is developmentally appropriate and engaging.
Factors to Consider in Introducing Technology to Preschoolers
Age Appropriateness
One of the best ways to consider when introducing technology to preschoolers is using age-appropriate apps and games. Many apps and games are specifically designed for young children of different ages.
Safety concerns
You have a task to balance the use of technology and the real world for children because there are adverse effects of technology on children. Preschoolers are too small to protect themselves from online information.
And make sure to track the children’s use of the internet for their safety.
Learning outcomes
When choosing programs to introduce to preschoolers, you may focus on the learning outcomes of the program. Does it help your child to learn new things? Some programs can provide children with a lot of knowledge about the world around them, while others provide children with new soft skills.
Screen time
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, you should not expose kids to technology before age two. The reason for this is addiction. Therefore, you need to limit screen time to no more than 1 hour a day.
Ways to Introduce Technology to Preschoolers
Interactive educational apps and games
Fun and educational learning games help preschoolers to learn in an easy way. They can involve in an interactive experience by running, flying, and jumping by playing little mini-games and educational apps.
Those may teach children to recognize basic numbers and letters, as well as to learn about colors, words, shapes, and practice counting, sorting, and memory skills.
Video conferencing with family and friends
Video chat apps have essentially become a part of every child’s existence. My 2-year-old baby video chats/babbles with grandmas and grandpas every weekend on Zoom or Zalo, and I am guessing your child does too.
Virtual field trips
You can apply virtual field trips for your preschoolers to get them learning about the world.
While your children may be home physically, online tours still give them some access to the rest of the outside world.
Your child can see how food grows and is harvested with some farm tours. Or virtual trips to zoos and aquariums where preschoolers can check in with the animals.
Educational TV shows and videos
Parents can introduce educational TV shows and videos because these shows will capture preschoolers’ attention through smart and lovable characters, and attractive storytelling….
Your children may be fully entertained, and they may learn a little something, too!
Tips for Introducing Technology to Preschoolers
At present, by 3 or 4, nearly 97 percent of children can effectively navigate mobile devices. For children, learning and understanding technology is almost second nature to them, here are some tips and best practices for introducing technology to preschoolers:
Monitor Usage
When introducing technology to your preschoolers, ensure they are engaging in useful online activities that add value to their lives.
Moreover, you should introduce your children to technology after two years while helping them understand what they are doing. Also, make sure to choose the right tools for further learning and development.
Set boundaries and rules
Excessive consumption of digital content can overwhelm your children, so we need to set boundaries and rules for technology consumption.
You should also set aside hours when your children cannot be interacting with devices, such as during mealtimes or a few hours before bedtime. Decide how much screen time your child should have each day and stick to that limit.
Use technology together
To successfully introduce your preschoolers to technology, you must be involved in the process instead of making it a solo activity for your children.
For example, you may allow your children to teach you what they have learned as it boosts their confidence. You should frequently update on current technology trends so you can be conversant about what your children are doing online.
Provide a variety of technology options
You can ask other parents or teachers about different helpful programs to choose from and provide a variety of technology options to your children. There are millions of apps and videos or TV shows for your children to learn and try.
Conclusion
Introducing technology to preschoolers can help them in the learning and exploration process.
However, while technology can be a great learning tool for preschoolers, it is important to balance screen time with hands-on learning. Parents should also encourage their children to engage in physical activities in addition to using technology to get healthy habits.
All we do is for the comprehensive development of our beloved children!
FAQ
What are the benefits of technology for preschoolers?
Technology has some benefits for preschoolers such as it develops core abilities during early education and enhances creativity and soft skills (organizational, and problem-solving skills…) that can translate into a career. It helps children absorb lessons quickly through interesting pictures and videos.
Is the technology safe for preschoolers?
Technology always has side effects. The use of technology by preschoolers should be done with caution to help them learn things better without negatively affecting their childhood.
How do I know if my child is ready for technology?
Research has shown that children under two years of age learn best from real-world experiences and interactions. So, you can wait until your child is 2 years old for him or her to start using technology.
What kind of technology is appropriate for preschoolers?
Anything from electronic technology such as laptops, cameras, and recording devices can all be considered examples of preschool classroom technology. Parents can choose programs recommended by producers that are appropriate for preschoolers.
What are the risks of screen time for preschoolers?
Too much screen time can cause tiredness, loss of energy, poor mood, headaches, dry or watery eyes, and light sensitivity. Preschoolers should not be exposed to more than 1 hour of screen time a day.
