On a recent trip, I watched a dad, carrying his baby, maneuver into his airplane seat. As they squeezed into the row, the 12-month-old stretched for the screen on the back of the seat and started scrolling. Although I wasn’t surprised, something about observing this tiny human reach for and scroll on the screen shocked me, and got me wondering, how does technology impact young children?

Indeed, there are many questions that “scroll” through our minds when considering how young students use devices, apps, and tools. In Course 5232: Technology for Littles, we discuss what the research says about technology’s effects—and how to weigh the benefits and the challenges.

For a sneak peek at this new course, check out the activity below and see how you can apply your learning through the creation of a Family Media Plan.

Creating a Family Media Plan (From Course 5232)

Image from Pew Research Center’s, “Parenting Children in the Age of Screens” study

Teachers are a trusted resource for families when it comes to technology use at home too! When working with young students it is important for families to understand how  technology impacts learning, to seek age-appropriate guidelines for screen time, and to encourage families to create a media plan. If completing this option, review two or more of the following resources, then complete the assignment that follows. 

After reviewing the resources above, create a one-page or longer, “Helpful Ideas and Resources for Media Use At Home,” reference guide to share with the families of the students with whom you work. 

Your creation can be a post on your school or classroom website, a hand-out for students to take home or emailed, a presentation you share during back-to-school festivities, or information you provide during conferences.