Plan to offer a range of technology-related activities within the early years curriculum. For instance, if the older children in your program are exploring technology concepts, consider implementing activities such as creating interactive digital stories, coding with child-friendly programming languages, and using educational apps or software.
Always ensure that these activities are age-appropriate and prioritise online safety and digital literacy. Encourage children to actively engage with technology, fostering their curiosity, problem-solving abilities, and digital skills. Technology should be a dynamic and engaging avenue for learning and discovery for children of all ages.
Digital storytelling
Use age-appropriate digital storytelling apps such as 'Tales2Go' (ages 3 to 11). Tales2Go is an audiobook streaming service designed for young listeners. This will support the young child to gain skills to navigate to different books to listen to. It offers a vast library of audio stories and books suitable for various age groups. Children can listen to and engage with stories, improving their listening and comprehension skills.
Toontastic 3D
Toontastic 3D is an animation app by Google that allows children to create their own animated stories. Children can design characters, select settings, and craft their narratives. It is a fantastic tool for fostering creativity and storytelling skills, whilst supporting the children to understand how to appropriate technology and to gain a greater understanding of it.
These activities can be adapted to the child's age and skill level, from simple picture stories for younger children to more complex narratives for older ones.
Coding with block-based programming
Introduce coding using block-based programming languages like Scratch or Blockly. Younger children can create simple animations and games, while older ones can work on more intricate projects. This focuses on problem-solving and creativity through coding. This can encourage children to be curious about how to use technology whilst allowing them to be creative and learn new skills.
Robotics and STEM kits
Provide robotics kits suitable for different age levels. For younger children, this can be beebots, and supporting the children in coordinating how to get the beetbot from one side of a map to another.
This activity supports children in problem-solving and encourages them to work together as a team. Children can build and program robots, fostering an understanding of technology and engineering. Emphasise teamwork and problem-solving as they work on robotics projects.
These technology activities cater to various age groups and promote digital literacy, creativity, problem-solving, and an understanding of technology concepts. Be sure to provide age-appropriate tools and supervision to ensure safe and enjoyable learning experiences.
