What parents should know about pre-K kids and high-tech learning (Paid Content by Amazon)

Tech to aid young kids’ learning

When it comes to pre-K and kindergarten-age children, below are a few ways parents may choose to introduce digital learning to their kids in a balanced way.

-Joint reading of interactive e-books: According to the NAEYC, studies have shown “real promise” for e-books to help young kids learn to read. Some studies have found that e-books can improve phonemic and print-concept awareness among preschoolers, and e-readers may be especially effective as educational aids for children with learning disabilities.

When it comes to kids and e-books, the role of the adult reading companion is crucial. E-books that offer interactivity features — in-line definitions of new vocabulary words, bimodal content, or memory-game puzzles, for instance — have been found to be effective tools, particularly when they facilitate conversations between kids and adults. Parents may consider using e-books as a prompt to discuss new concepts with their kids, instead of simply shutting off the book post story-time.

-Using voice-activated smart speakers to support creativity: Kids and parents can use voice-activated assistants like the Echo Dot Kids Edition to complement creative activities in the home. For example: Alexa provides a hands-free way to play music or kids-centric, educational podcasts during arts and crafts time when hands tend to be covered in glue or glitter. For parents of young kids, too, Alexa can serve as a helpful aid for developing schedules, managing calendars, and setting alerts for things like mealtime or when it’s your week to bring snacks to playgroup. Additionally, voice-activated speakers offer a great way to engage with technology without the use of a screen.