What I Did ✅:

This Ted talk/YouTube video is shared with staff at professional development and with families as part of an online safety course offered in the district. I have adapted many of the idea in this video in my own classroom and specifically and intentionally teach from Commonsense Media education website. Technology and young children has evolved so quickly that it was like handing them the keys to the car before they learned to drive.

What I Learned 🧠:

Digital learning and online media doesn't have to be a negative influence and teaching young children early on how to be safe and responsible digital citizens is just as much my responsibility in the classroom as teaching reading or math. Throughout all of my coursework in my master's program, it has become increasingly alarming at the dangers for young children online but with appropriate and intentional lessons I can contribute value to children with the "list of Do's" while online.

How I Will Grow 🌱:

I will continue to utilize and research as many digital citizenship resources as possible and incorporate them into learning with young children. My plan is also to develop more parent courses to help families understand the dangers online but also to embrace and harness the power that online digital learning has the potential to be. I am working on finding my own digital media balance in my life as well. I hope to set a good example for my children by modeling appropriate and healthy online habits and behaviors.