In today’s tech-driven world, many parents worry about the impact of screen time on their child’s development. While screens are a part of modern life, there’s a big difference between passive screen time and intentional, educational digital literacy activities. At Kids Academy, we believe that digital literacy, when approached thoughtfully, can be a powerful tool for learning. Through our Lifelong Learning Curriculum, we use digital tools to enrich children’s education in a balanced, developmentally appropriate way.
In this post, we’ll explore the difference between screen time and digital literacy and share some tips on how to balance screen exposure with purposeful, educational digital interactions.
What Is the Difference Between Screen Time and Digital Literacy?
Screen time typically refers to any time spent in front of a screen, whether it’s watching videos, playing games, or scrolling through apps. Many parents worry that too much screen time can affect their child’s attention span, social skills, and physical activity levels - and research supports these concerns. A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that excessive screen time can impact cognitive and language development, especially in young children.
Digital literacy, on the other hand, is about learning how to use digital tools effectively, safely, and with purpose. It involves teaching children how to interact with technology in ways that develop their skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and early learning concepts like literacy and numeracy. Digital literacy activities are structured, purposeful, and designed to support cognitive and emotional development rather than simply entertain.
How Kids Academy Balances Screen Time and Digital Literacy Through Our Lifelong Learning Curriculum
At Kids Academy, our Lifelong Learning Curriculum incorporates digital literacy in a balanced and age-appropriate way, helping children learn essential skills while maintaining a healthy relationship with technology. Here’s how we use digital tools like MathSeeds, Reading Eggs, and the Early Years Toolbox to encourage learning and curiosity:
1. MathSeeds: Building Numeracy Skills Through Play
MathSeeds is an interactive program designed for young learners to explore early math concepts in a fun and engaging way. Through colourful animations, games, and activities, children practice counting, pattern recognition, and basic problem-solving. MathSeeds turns math into a hands-on, playful experience that builds digital literacy while developing essential numeracy skills.
With MathSeeds, children aren’t just spending time on screens - they’re building a solid foundation in math skills that will serve them in primary school and beyond.
2. Reading Eggs: Developing Literacy and Logical Thinking
Reading Eggs combines early reading instruction with digital activities that encourage logical thinking, sequencing, and pattern recognition. While the main focus is on literacy, Reading Eggs also helps children develop problem-solving skills as they navigate interactive games and exercises.
Reading Eggs is carefully designed to build digital literacy in a way that’s both educational and enjoyable, promoting a love for reading while enhancing digital skills.
Families with children enrolled in our School Readiness program receive full access to MathSeeds and Reading Eggs programs (valued at $250) at no additional charge. Speak to your Centre Manager for details.
3. Early Years Toolbox: Supporting Cognitive Skills
The Early Years Toolbox is a research-based tool used to assess and support young children’s cognitive development. It includes a variety of games and activities that improve attention, memory, and self-regulation - skills essential for academic success. Through these activities, children learn to focus, follow instructions, and solve problems, reinforcing their digital literacy and critical thinking abilities.
Read more: Play-Based Learning at Kids Academy: How Our Curriculum Encourages Growth and Development
Tips for Balancing Screen Time and Productive Digital Interactions
We understand that parents want to find the right balance between screen time and meaningful learning experiences. Here are some practical tips to help guide screen use at home:
- Set clear boundaries for screen time: Designate specific times for digital activities, and limit passive screen time, like watching TV or playing non-educational games. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children aged 2 to 5 should have no more than one hour of high-quality screen time per day. Focus on making that time purposeful by using educational apps or interactive learning tools.
- Choose educational, age-appropriate content: Opt for apps and programs designed to build skills and engage young minds. Platforms like MathSeeds, Reading Eggs, and educational tools from reputable sources are excellent choices for young children. These programs align with the digital literacy goals in our Lifelong Learning Curriculum and help make screen time more productive. Remember, families enrolled at Kids Academy receive full access to MathSeeds and Reading Eggs (valued at $250) at no additional charge! Your Centre Manager can provide you with more information and login details.
- Engage with your child during digital activities: Whenever possible, participate in digital activities with your child. Ask questions, discuss what they’re learning, and encourage critical thinking. For example, while using Reading Eggs, ask questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” or “How did you solve that?” This involvement reinforces learning and helps you monitor your child’s understanding.
- Balance screen time with hands-on play: While digital literacy is valuable, it’s essential to balance it with offline activities. Encourage traditional play, like building blocks, drawing, or outdoor exploration. Physical play complements digital activities and supports overall development by fostering creativity, coordination, and social skills.
- Encourage open-ended digital activities: Open-ended digital activities, like interactive puzzles or creative apps, can help children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Tools like Osmo or Toca Builders encourage exploration and creativity, helping children learn that technology can be a tool for discovery rather than passive consumption.
FAQ: Screen Time vs. Digital Literacy
Screen time refers to any time spent on screens, often passively, while digital literacy focuses on purposeful, educational interactions with technology that develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and more.
Set boundaries for passive screen use, choose age-appropriate educational content, and participate with your child during digital activities to make screen time more meaningful.
Digital literacy prepares children for a world where technology is prevalent. It builds skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and digital safety, helping them use technology responsibly as they grow.
Finding the Balance
Finding the balance between screen time and digital literacy is key to raising confident, capable digital learners. At Kids Academy, our Lifelong Learning Curriculum introduces digital literacy in ways that foster learning, curiosity, and healthy habits. By using programs like MathSeeds, Reading Eggs, and the Early Years Toolbox, we ensure children receive quality digital interactions that support their development without overexposing them to screens.
Ready to learn more? Find your nearest Kids Academy and book a tour today!