The Role of Technology: Balancing Screen Time and Digital Literacy

In today's fast-paced digital age, technology plays an increasingly prominent role in education, even for the youngest learners. Educators and parents alike find themselves walking the fine line between embracing technology's benefits while also safeguarding children's healthy development. 

“At Green Vale, we recognize the importance of technological skills for our students' future success, alongside their well-being,” said Heather Wagner, Head of Lower School. “We strive to balance technology use with mindful, hands-on engagement, empowering our students to navigate the digital world more confidently and responsibly." In this blog, we'll explore strategies to help strike that balance when using technology not only in an educational setting, but also at home.

Embracing Digital Literacy from the Start

Digital literacy is defined as the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that allow children to flourish and thrive, being both safe and empowered, in an age-appropriate way. This is a crucial skill set that children should develop early on. From interactive learning apps to educational videos, technology offers valuable resources for engaging young minds and enhancing their learning experiences. By introducing these digital tools and activities, children can become confident and competent users of technology.

Setting Healthy Boundaries for Screen Time

While technology can enrich learning, it's also essential to establish boundaries around screen time, especially for young children. According to a study by Iowa State University, published in JAMA Pediatrics, reducing the amount of time children spend on the computer or in front of the TV, as well as monitoring content, will help them sleep more, do better in school, behave better, and lower the risk of obesity. 

At Green Vale, we emphasize the importance of this balance, encouraging a blend of screen-based activities with hands-on, sensory experiences to promote holistic development. 

Kelly Flink, Head of Early Childhood at Green Vale, points out the lost chances when children spend too much time on screens. “Instead of enjoying physical activities like climbing and running, or letting their creativity shine through play, they miss out on these experiences and become disconnected.” Flink also emphasizes the importance of keeping an eye on screen time across all devices–TVs, computers, tablets, and phones. “Children should be active!”  

Integrating Technology into Play-Based Learning

Play is a cornerstone of education for young students, fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and social-emotional development. Technology can complement play-based learning by offering interactive games, virtual storytelling, and digital art tools. By integrating technology into play in purposeful ways, we can harness its potential to spark curiosity and ignite children's imaginations.

At GVS, technology is seamlessly integrated with play-based learning in Kindergarten. Through our technology class, children learn coding through engaging games and activities.

Cultivating Digital Citizenship and Safety Awareness

As digital natives, children are growing up in a connected world where online interactions are a part of daily life. Teaching digital citizenship and internet safety skills is essential from an early age. Green Vale educates students about responsible online behavior, privacy protection, and cyberbullying awareness. One such way is through a partnership with The Social Institute (TSI)—a national leader in curriculum designed to equip students to navigate the complex intersection of well-being, social media, and technology. 

“TSI equips our students to make positive, healthy, and high-character choices that fuel their health, happiness, and future success,” said Head of Upper School, Cathy Iannotta. “Our School adopted TSI’s comprehensive program, called #WinAtSocial, which promotes character, empathy, teamwork, and other important life skills. By instilling these values early on, we empower our students to navigate the digital world with integrity.”

Partnering with Parents to Foster Healthy Tech Habits

Collaboration between educators and parents is key to supporting children's healthy tech habits. At Green Vale, we provide resources and guidance to parents on managing screen time at home, selecting age-appropriate digital content, and promoting balanced lifestyles. By working together as a community, we can reinforce consistent messages about the responsible use of technology and create a supportive environment for our children to thrive.

Educators at Green Vale embrace technology as a tool for enhancing learning and preparing students for success in the 21st century. By striking a balance between screen time and hands-on experiences, we’re able to create a nurturing environment where children can develop essential digital literacy skills while also fostering their holistic growth and well-being. Together, let's empower our young learners to navigate the digital world with confidence, curiosity, and kindness.