Is it okay for my child to be exposed to technology and different gadgets?
Technology, use of gadgets and screen time are always the issues that parents and practitioners face frequently. More so now, in the light of the Covid-19 pandemic, e-learning or distance learning is the form of education that schools provide. This is accepted. But what about watching videos on Youtube or playing games?
In our curriculum, we included ICT or Information and Communications Technology and it is an integral part of Understanding of the World in Early Years. ICT in early years is teaching children how to manipulate, operate and use mechanical objects, toys and technology that we use in our daily lives. It is as simple as pushing buttons or flaps in toys for babies and slowly advancing from learning how to operate a digital camera to knowing how to use mobile phones or laptops.
Let's face it, in our ever-changing world, technology is becoming a big part of our lives. We even call this time, the 'Digital Era'. But how should we incorporate it with learning?
Technology supports making relationships between children, especially when playing together with friends. They learn how to work together to achieve a goal. #teamwork
Children learn how to be patient and practice problem solving when using different resources. It also supports communication by learning new words and following instructions.
"The thoughtful use of technology by parents and early educators can engage children in key skills such as play, self-expression, and computational thinking which will support later success across all academic disciplines and help maintain young children’s natural curiosity." -Guiding Principles for Use of Technology with Early Learners
ICT is not only laptops or mobile phones, but below is a list of some resources you could use and incorporate during play (check the full article here).
1. Baby and toddler ICT toys - toys that make sounds, lights up, even car alarm keys
2. Programmable toys - toys such as “Bee-bots”, “Roamers”, “Pixies” and robots, etc.
3. Remote-controlled toys - learning directional language, forward, backwards, sideways, left and right
4. Recordable devices - Talking photo albums, Talking speech bubbles and talking boxes, Recordable Pegs, “Easi Speaks” or MP3 recorders and players, microphones, headphones, CD players, which help children develop their language skills
5. Cameras and camcorders - including photo printers
6. Interactive whiteboards (IWBs)
7. Digital picture frames
8. Computers, laptops and tablets - including printers; can also be useful in helping children learn through word and number games
It is important to know that the use of technology should be age appropriate, carefully planned through an activity, and with the supervision of adults.
Further Reading:
Paalam!
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