Many children are interested in technology, whether that is watching cartoons on TV or observing space through a telescope.
Even though young children are growing up in digital contexts, early childhood educators frequently debate the appropriateness of technology in classrooms.
Early Childhood Australia released a statement on young children and digital technologies (PDF), which is a great place to start when planning for a child's interest in technology.
However, remember that technology is more than screen-based devices and includes everyday items like washing machines, light switches, water pumps, metal detectors, medicine, and cars.
STEM learning combines technology with science, engineering and maths.
EYLF learning outcomes
The Early Years Learning Framework states: "Digital technologies can enable children to access global connections and resources, and encourage new ways of thinking."
The EYLF emphasises the important connection between language, literacy and technologies. The framework uses the term texts to refer to print based and electronic media: "In an increasingly technological world, the ability to critically analyse texts is a key component of literacy. Children benefit from opportunities to explore their world using technologies and to develop confidence in using digital media."
EYLF learning outcomes include children connecting with technologies (4.4) and:
- using information and communication technologies to access information, investigate ideas and represent their thinking (5.5)
- expressing ideas and make meaning using a range of media (5.3)
- problem solving, researching and investigating (4.2).
Learning environments
Add technology to your home corner
Home corners are often restricted to traditionally feminine items. A great way to change this is by adding technology. This could be a broken computer keyboard or mobile phone. It's okay to add real kitchen equipment too, like an old toaster or kitchen scales for children to play with.
Make digital art
- Use a drawing program or app to create digital artworks. Print them out.
- Experiment with creative photography and videography. Children can use digital cameras or smartphones to take photographs and then edit them using apps like Adobe Lightroom or Snapseed.
- Use apps to create your own music compositions. Play piano using an app.
- Use the app Canva for simple graphic design projects.
Tell stories
Children can use word-processing programs to create their own picture books:
- Decide on a storyline.
- Make pictures and insert them on the pages.
- Educators can write the children's accompanying words.
- Save the book as a PDF file.
- Email the book to families so they can read it at home with their children.
- Print out the book and put a copy on your bookshelf.
Conduct research
When children ask questions, suggest they find the answer on the internet. Talk about what the world wide web is (it's like a ginormous library you can access from anywhere) and demonstrate how to search for accurate information.
Educators can also help children send emails to people, asking for information about their topics of interest.
Teach children to ask simple questions using voice assistance, so they can practice their verbal language and listening skills.
Use the internet to stream music and videos that allow children to become familiar with diverse cultures. Discover new music and move your body to it.
Program computers
There are an increasing number of opportunities for children to become involved with computer programming, including coding and robotics.
Use everyday technologies
Teach children to use everyday tools and machines and to appreciate the impact they have on their lives: cooking equipment, stopwatches, air conditioners, cars, washing machines, lights, battery-operated toys.