As technology becomes more integrated into daily life, it is essential to guide children in developing healthy screen habits from a young age.
At Little Footprints Preschool, we believe in a balanced approach to digital exposure — one that supports learning, encourages social interactions and fosters overall well-being.
Nurturing Healthy Digital Habits from the Start
Screen time can be a valuable learning tool when used appropriately, but excessive or unstructured digital exposure may impact a child's social, emotional, and cognitive growth. That is why our approach at Little Footprints Preschool focuses on mindful and purposeful screen usage to ensure children receive enriching learning experiences without overreliance on digital devices.
Our Screen Time Guidelines at Little Footprints Preschool
To support our young learners in developing positive screen habits, we have implemented the following guidelines:
1. No Screens for Infants
Infants under 18 months old are not exposed to screens. Instead, they engage in sensory play, face-to-face interactions, and hands-on learning, which are essential for early development.
2. Educational and Purposeful Usage
Screen time is strictly limited to educational activities, such as introducing new concepts or supporting visual storytelling. Usage is kept brief (3 to 5 minutes per session), and handheld devices like phones and tablets are avoided to encourage focus on meaningful content.
3. Interactive Engagement Over Passive Viewing
We prioritise active learning by integrating digital content that encourages participation. Instead of passive screen time, teachers facilitate discussions around short educational videos or documentaries to enhance comprehension and engagement.
4. A Well-Rounded Learning Experience
Technology is only one part of our holistic curriculum. We ensure digital exposure is complemented with hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, and group learning, providing children with diverse and meaningful experiences.
5. Always Supervised by Educators
All screen-based content is guided by teachers to ensure alignment with learning objectives and developmental needs. Children are never left to engage with digital media unsupervised.
6. Screen-Free Meals and Rest Times
To encourage mindfulness and personal connections, we maintain a no-screen policy during mealtimes and pre-nap routines. This allows children to focus on nutrition, rest, and social interactions with their peers.
Supporting Parents in Managing Screen Time at Home
At Little Footprints Preschool, we understand that managing screen time extends beyond the classroom.
We provide guidance and resources to help parents establish healthy screen habits at home, including tips on setting limits, encouraging alternative activities, and fostering meaningful family interactions without digital distractions.
For more insights on managing children's screen time, explore these resources as our Head of Curriculum shares our approach with the media:
Screen time guidelines for children
Concerned about your children getting too much screen time? Here’s how to dial back
Weaning children off screens – Struggling working parents say they need help, not more rules
By maintaining a balanced approach to digital exposure, Little Footprints Preschool ensures that children receive enriching learning experiences while developing lifelong healthy screen habits.
Interested to learn more about our programmes and curriculum?
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