Age Group: Kindergarten (4-6 years)
Learning Outcome:
- Develop an understanding of safe and responsible technology use
- Enhance digital literacy skills
- Foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities
- Encourage collaboration and communication
- Promote self-regulation and responsible decision-making
Materials Needed:
- Child-friendly tablets, computers, or digital devices (with appropriate parental controls and educational apps)
- Headphones (optional)
- Art supplies (paper, markers, crayons)
- Chart paper or whiteboard
- Internet safety resources (books, videos, or posters)
- Timer or stopwatch
Activity Steps:
- Introduction to Safe Technology Use (10 minutes):
Begin by discussing the importance of using technology safely and responsibly. Show the children Internet safety resources, such as books, videos, or posters, and explain how they can help us make good choices when using digital devices. Highlight key rules and guidelines, such as not sharing personal information online, being kind and respectful in digital spaces, and seeking adult help when encountering unfamiliar content. - Tech Exploration Stations (30 minutes):
Set up different tech exploration stations with child-friendly tablets or computers. Each station can have a specific educational app or interactive game installed. Ensure that the content aligns with the children’s interests and supports their learning. Provide headphones for individual use to minimize distractions. - Tech Time Rotation (10 minutes per station):
Divide the children into small groups and rotate them through each tech exploration station. Set a timer or stopwatch to signal when it’s time to switch to the next station. Encourage the children to explore the apps, play games, or engage in interactive learning activities, promoting their digital literacy and critical thinking skills. - Reflective Group Discussion (15 minutes):
Gather the children and engage in a reflective discussion about their tech exploration experience. Use open-ended questions such as:
- What did you enjoy most about using the digital devices?
- What new things did you learn or discover during your tech time?
- Did you face any challenges while using the apps? How did you overcome them? Encourage the children to share their thoughts, experiences, and discoveries with their peers.
- Tech Time Art (15 minutes):
Provide art supplies and ask the children to create drawings or paintings depicting their favorite tech exploration moments or something they learned from the digital devices. Encourage creativity and self-expression while connecting their experiences to other forms of learning. - Digital Rules Chart (10 minutes):
Collaboratively create a chart or list of digital rules and guidelines based on the discussion and reflections. Write down key points that the children identified as important for safe and responsible technology use. Display the chart in the classroom to serve as a visual reminder. - Closing and Reinforcement (5 minutes):
Summarize the importance of safe technology use and remind the children about the digital rules and guidelines. Encourage them to apply what they have learned during their future tech interactions. Emphasize the role of responsible decision-making and seeking adult help when needed.
Extensions:
- Invite a guest speaker, such as a parent or technology expert, to discuss online safety and answer children’s questions.
- Collaborate with parents to create a list of safe and educational apps or websites that children can explore at home, promoting continuity between school and home technology use.
Note: It is essential to closely monitor children’s technology use, ensure age-appropriate content, and maintain a balanced approach between digital and non-digital activities to support their holistic development.
Easel Education 