Screen time. The jury seems to still be out on the benefits and/or drawbacks of allowing kiddos time on an ipad, computer, TV… just about any screen. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics has recently changed their strict guidelines to ones that are a little more lax. The reason? Screens are an integrated part of many families’ daily lives. Though the experts may not agree on how much screen time is appropriate for children, the quality and content of their tech time should still be taking into consideration. If and when your little one is using a screen, here are some of our favorite resources that are not only fun, but can make tech time a beneficial part of their day.
Apps
Storytime by Kindoma This video chat plus books app allows you to share a bedtime story with your child or grandchild from anywhere.
Gro Recycling Introduce your little one to the concepts of recycling, helping others, and improving the environment. Using a variety of characters, kids will see reducing, reusing, and recycling in action.
Emotionary by Funny Feelings Gives children a variety of tools and skills to express themselves. It even allows kids to draw their own Emotionary selfie to match how they are feeling.
Just for You – Little Critter Everyone’s favorite little storybook character is trying to do something special for his mom in this interactive story book. Children can explore new vocabulary, interactive pictures, and personalize the story with narration.
Breath, Think, Do with Sesame What is a little monster to do when he gets upset? This app teaches children how to keep calm and work through problems.
Websites
Go Noodle This site is a fantastic web-based way to get little ones out of their seats and moving. It provides short physical activities that help them feel good about themselves.
Brain Pop Jr. Learn with Moby, the inquisitive and silly robot about a variety of topics. The short yet engaging videos usually link to printable activities and online games. Though they do have a subscription service, they offer some of their videos for free and feature a new free video each day.
Star Fall This educational resource for preschool and early elementary students is fun and engaging. From learning your alphabet and numbers to exploring seasons and holidays this site has a host of online activities that kids love
Screen time doesn’t always equal wasted time. With an ever-growing assortment of resources designed with growing children in mind, tech time can be learning time. And who knows with these fun apps and sites it might even turn into family time.
