"Yes, Kids Love Technology, but they also love Legos, Scented markers, handstands, books, and mud puddles. It's all about balance." K.C. First-Grade Teacher.
"If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow." John Dewey.
Welcome! This website is a dedicated resource for early childhood professionals and families to explore the vital role of technology in early literacy development. I aim to bridge the gap between innovative educational tools and traditional literacy practices, empowering families to nurture their children's reading and language skills. Early childhood professionals can support families by guiding them in selecting age-appropriate educational technology and offering strategies to integrate these tools into everyday routines. By fostering an understanding of how digital resources can complement reading aloud, storytelling, and interactive play, we help create enriching learning environments that support young children's literacy growth (National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children's Media at Saint Vincent College. 2012).
Intentional Use of Technology Supports Literacy Skills
The NAEYC and Fred Rogers Center emphasize that technology should be used intentionally to promote language development and literacy. Interactive e-books and apps focusing on phonics, letter recognition, and storytelling can foster vocabulary growth, especially when paired with adult interaction to guide and contextualize learning (NAEYC & Fred Rogers Center, 2012b).
Excessive Screen Time Can Impair Cognitive Development
Research highlights the dangers of excessive screen time, including impaired attention spans and reduced social interaction. Overexposure to technology may hinder critical thinking and literacy skills by replacing opportunities for imaginative play and face-to-face communication (Cross, n.d.). Families should prioritize quality over quantity when introducing technology.
Co-engagement Enhances Learning Outcomes
Studies stress the importance of adult involvement when young children use technology. Co-viewing or co-playing helps children interpret content, engage in meaningful conversations, and reinforce learning outcomes. This shared interaction can deepen comprehension and ensure the use of developmentally appropriate media (NAEYC & Fred Rogers Center, 2012b)
Balanced Use Prevents Overstimulation
While technology can be a valuable tool for literacy, it must be used in moderation. Excessive or poorly monitored screen time can overstimulate children’s brains, leading to sleep disturbances and difficulty focusing. Families should encourage a balanced approach, incorporating traditional literacy practices alongside digital tools (Humairi, n.d.).
Technology Can Address Learning Gaps
For families with limited access to books, technology provides opportunities to bridge gaps in literacy resources. High-quality, interactive media can expose children to diverse stories, languages, and literacy-building activities, fostering equitable access to early literacy development tools (NAEYC & Fred Rogers Center, 2012b).
By understanding these research findings, families can make informed decisions about integrating technology into their children’s literacy journey while maintaining a balance that supports holistic development.
GUIDELINES BY AGE:
Infants (0–12 months):
Infants should avoid screen time except for occasional video chats to connect with family, as their developing brains thrive on direct human interaction and sensory experiences (Cross, J.F. n.d.).
Toddlers (1–2 years):
Toddlers may have up to 1 hour of high-quality, age-appropriate content per day, co-viewed with an adult, to support language development and understanding (Cross, J.F. n.d.).
Preschoolers (3–5 years):
Preschoolers should have no more than 1 hour per day of screen time focused on educational, interactive media that encourages creativity and complements active, real-world play (Cross, J.F. n.d.).
Kindergartners (5–6 years):
Kindergartners can benefit from 1–2 hours of screen time, emphasizing educational apps and programs while balancing physical activity, social interaction, and unstructured play (Cross, J.F., n.d.).
First/Second/Third Graders (6–9 years):
Older children should have 1–2 hours of screen time daily, focusing on educational and age-appropriate content while ensuring technology use does not interfere with homework, physical activity, or social engagement (Cross, J.F. n.d.).
Source: Cross, J. F. (n.d.). What does too much screen time do to children’s brains? New York Presbyterian Health Matters. healthmatters.nyp.org
INFANTS & TODDLERS
1. Video Chat for Social Interaction:
Caregivers can facilitate interactions between infants or toddlers and distant family members using video chat apps like FaceTime or Zoom. This helps children develop social bonds and language skills by hearing familiar voices, engaging in simple conversations, and responding to facial expressions and sounds (White, P. (2023).
2. Interactive E-Books with Adult Guidance:
E-books with simple stories and interactive features like touch-to-sound or image animations can engage toddlers. Caregivers should read alongside, emphasizing sounds, repeating words, and encouraging children to touch the screen, promoting word recognition and vocabulary development (White, P. 2023).
PRESCHOOLERS
1. Educational Apps for Phonemic Awareness:
Preschoolers can use apps like Starfall ABCs or Endless Alphabet to practice letter recognition, phonics, and vocabulary. These apps combine bright visuals, sounds, and interactive games, making early literacy skills engaging and fun while parents monitor and assist as needed (White, P. 2023).
2. Digital Storytelling with Audio Narration:
Apps such as Tumble Books or Audible Kids allow preschoolers to listen to narrated stories. Parents can discuss the story with their children afterward, asking questions about characters and events to enhance comprehension and language development (Buckleitner, W. n.d.).
KINDERGARTNERS
1. Digital Writing Tools:
Kindergartners can use apps like Write Reader or Kidpics to create simple stories. These tools encourage children to combine drawing and basic writing, fostering creativity while helping them practice sentence formation and storytelling (Buckleitner, W. n.d.).
2. Interactive Sight Word Games:
Apps like Sight Words Adventure provide games and activities focused on learning high-frequency words. Regular play helps children build vocabulary and improve reading fluency, with parents guiding and celebrating progress (White, P. 2023).
FIRST/SECOND/THIRD GRADERS
1. Typing and Spelling Practice Games:
Apps like ABC ya’s Spelling or Typing Club engage young readers in practicing spelling patterns and keyboarding skills. These games complement classroom activities by making learning word structure and improving writing speed fun (White, P. 2023).
2. Digital Book Creation:
Apps like Book Creator enable children to write and illustrate their stories. This activity enhances their writing skills, creativity, and understanding of narrative structure while allowing them to share their creations with family and friends (White, P. 2023).
Sources:
Buckleitner, W. (n.d.). I am selecting apps to support children’s learning. NAEYC. naeyc.org
Buckleitner, W. (n.d.). Tips on tablets and apps for the early childhood classroom. NAEYC. naeyc.org
White, P. 2023.
Content Should Match Developmental Needs:
Choose apps that align with the child’s age, skills, and interests, ensuring the content supports their current developmental stage. For example, apps for toddlers should focus on sensory experiences, while apps for older children can introduce problem-solving and creativity (Buckleitner, W. n.d.).
Encourage Active Engagement:
Select apps that require children to interact meaningfully rather than passively watching. Look for features that promote active participation, such as tapping, dragging, or answering questions, to keep children mentally engaged in the learning process (White, P. 2023).
Promote Creativity and Exploration:
Apps should allow children to explore, create, and experiment without rigid rules. Tools like drawing, storytelling, or building platforms encourage imagination and problem-solving, fostering a love for learning (Buckleitner, W. n.d.).
Easy to Use and Free of Distractions:
Choose apps with a simple, intuitive interface that young children can navigate independently. Avoid apps with intrusive advertisements, in-app purchases, or unnecessary distractions that could disrupt focus and learning (Buckleitner, W. n.d.).
Source:
Buckleitner, W. (n.d.-a). I am selecting apps to support children’s learning. NAEYC. naeyc.org
itunes.apple.com/app/10-doigts/id551172133?mt=8 10 Fingers +
Endless Alphabet
Age: 2–5 years
Endless Alphabet introduces children to letters, sounds, and vocabulary through fun, interactive puzzles where words come to life with animations. Children can drag letters into place while hearing phonics sounds, helping them develop letter recognition and early phonemic awareness. The app’s playful approach encourages engagement and fosters a love for language (National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College. 2012).
apps.apple.com/us/app/endless-alphabet/id591626572
Starfall ABCs
Age: 3–6 years
Starfall ABCs teaches letter recognition, phonics, and early reading skills through interactive songs, animations, and games. Children can explore letters and sounds at their own pace while learning how letters form words. This app is ideal for reinforcing literacy concepts taught in preschool or kindergarten (National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College. 2012).
Homer Learn & Grow
Age: 4–8 years
Homer offers a personalized early literacy program tailored to the child’s reading level and interests. It focuses on phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension and incorporates stories, songs, and interactive exercises that build foundational literacy skills. The app adapts as the child progresses, ensuring a developmentally appropriate and engaging experience (National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College. 2012).
learnwithhomer.com/learn-and-grow
Khan Academy Kids
Age: 2–7 years
Khan Academy Kids offers free, high-quality literacy activities that teach letters, sounds, rhymes, and vocabulary through interactive stories and lessons. It includes read-aloud books and activities to strengthen early reading and listening skills. The app’s adaptive approach ensures personalized learning experiences for young children (National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College. 2012).