BLOG THEME 02 (This is mine own experience as a child and digital media)

                  My Childhood and Digital Media: 

Growing up, I was fortunate to have access to a variety of digital devices that shaped my childhood. Our home was filled with the hum of a TV, the buzzing of a computer, the whir of a DVD player, and the static sounds of the radio. These gadgets were not just tools for entertainment; they were gateways to adventures, learning, and fun. I have two sisters, and we all shared the excitement of exploring these devices together. One of our favorite activities was playing games on the computer.

Sometimes, I would try out new games while my sisters joined in or cheered me on. It was a way to bond and spend quality time together. The TV, however, was where we spent many of our evenings. We loved watching cartoons, and it was something that brought us closer. Our weekend routine often involved settling in front of the screen to watch our favorite shows.

 I remember being especially excited during school holidays because we’d watch special movies like Harry Potter, Tin tin, and Scooby-Doo. 

These were not just movies to us; they were part of our childhood magic. Another tradition we had was watching educational programs every weekend. 

It wasn’t just about entertainment. These shows helped us with school subjects, making learning fun and interactive. Looking back, it was a great way to reinforce what we were learning in class without feeling like a chore. Digital media was a huge part of my childhood. It wasn’t just about entertainment—it was about discovering new worlds, learning new things, and connecting with my family. Every device, from the TV to the computer, played a role in shaping those memories. Even now, I find myself feeling nostalgic about those days of simple joy and shared experiences.

by Iresha Mendis.

Advantages and disadvantages of digital media in preschool - Greta

Advantages and disadvantages of digital media in preschool

In Finland, at the age of six children typically go to preschool. In preschool, they are preparing for their time in primary school. Some might already have learnt how to read and possibly write but that’s not always the case. Each of the children have different skill levels when entering preschool and eventually, school. This is very typical for children this age.

When I was a kid, I was nowhere near having a phone or an iPad. I didn’t even know how to use a computer or what to do with it. On television, I only watched this show for children called “Pikku Kakkonen”, which was broadcast every weekday at 5pm. The rest of the time I spent usually playing with my toys or something.

Nowadays most children in Finland have access to phones and pads, some might have their own. There are lots of pros and cons to this phenomenon and I’m gonna tell you a few. 

Pros: With children, digital media can be a helpful tool. It helps children to spend their time when bored, and sit down focusing on one thing in peace. In preschool, this could be very useful, when the kids need to have a break from running around and calm down. In addition, games and shows in digital form can help children to read and coordinate. 

Cons: Kids should always be under supervision when using digital tools. Some contents can be disturbing and harmful for their development. In addition, digital devices can cause addiction and disturb sleeping. In preschool, if the kids use digital media, it can be difficult for the teachers to keep track of what they’re doing. 

I think it is too early to give digital tools to kids in preschool. At home, it is up to their parents whether or not they want to give them time with devices. No matter where they use them, there should always be a limit and someone supervising.

https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-children-standing-near-concrete-fence-35188/

By Greta Jokiaho

Types of digital Media used by children now days

 Today's children are involved in variety of digital media for social interaction, entertainment and education. Few of the most common type of digital media used by children now days include: 

1.Social Media Platforms- Children and teenagers use platform such as You tube, TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat to browse videos, upload content, and to remain in touch with Friends. These platforms are combination of entertainment, creativity, and social connection, but they still need parental supervision due to possible risks.👦👧

2.Streaming Services - Platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube Kids provide a wide range of animated shows, educational material, and films aimed to young viewers.😀

3. Online Gaming & Interactive Platforms- Video games and gaming platforms such as Roblox, Minecraft, Fortnite, and PlayStation Network provide complete adventures which enable youngsters to play, socialize, and even develop virtual worlds. Many of these games have multiplayer modes, which promote communication as well as collaboration.🎮🎲

4. Educational applications & Learning Platforms- Children participate in interactive learning with applications such as Duolingo, Khan Academy Kids, ABC mouse, and Google Classroom. These digital tools will help learners improve their learning abilities in categories such as math, science, and language. 💡😄

5. E-Books and Audiobooks - Platforms such as Kindle, Audible, and Epic! provide digital books and audiobooks, that make reading more easier and interesting for youngsters. Many schools use e-books in their syllabuses to promote reading.  🕪📘📖

6. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)- Technologies such as VR headgear and AR filters in applications like Pokémon GO and Snapchat provides youngsters with interacting and deep experiences that combine the digital and real worlds.🎧

7. Messaging & Communication Apps- Platforms like WhatsApp, Messenger Kids, Zoom, and Discord help children to stay connected with friends and family by text, audio, and video calls. Some applications are directly meant for providing child-friendly safety measures.💬💭

These various types of digital media determine how children learn, play, and socialize in the modern digital age. However, parental supervision is required to provide safe and balanced use. 

 How would you help children with the first steps in digital media in pre-school?

1. Create a Safe Space
 we allow  to Use only age-appropriate apps and websites designed for preschoolers.

2. Use Interactive Tools
Introduce touch-screen tablets or computers with fun learning games for letters, numbers, and shapes.

3. Encourage Creativity
Let kids explore drawing apps, music-making tools, or simple video editing to express themselves.

4. Try Digital Storytelling
Use e-books or storytelling apps to listen, read along, or create their own stories.

5. Set Screen Time Limits
Balance digital time with outdoor play and breaks to support healthy development.

6. Promote Teamwork
Encourage group activities with digital tools, like shared games or storytelling projects.

7. Involve Parents
Share resources and tips so parents can guide their child's digital learning at home.

 Simple Ways to Begin💓💓💓💓

📱 Interactive Storytelling – Use digital books with sounds and animations to make stories come alive.
🎨 Creative Apps – Simple drawing or music apps encourage imagination and self-expression.
🎭 Hands-on Play – Combine screen time with real-world activities like acting out a digital story.
👩‍🏫 Guided Learning – Always explore digital media together, teaching kids how to use it safely and responsibly.

By keeping digital experiences interactive, educational, and balanced with real play, we help young children build a healthy relationship with technology.

 

BLOG THEME 2: Children and digital media - Group 1

Group 2 Discussion about Children and digital media 

 

💬Here is our group's discussion. Based on the questions and ideas provided, we divided the questions into small topics, and then each of us prepare and share our own ideas and thoughts.We will share more details through new post.

Questions:

• How would you help children with the first steps in digital media in pre-school?

• How can you teach media literacy in early childhood education?

• What kind of activities could be used in daycare? Find examples from social media.You can also interview preschool professional on this matter.

• What kind of activities would you plan for preschoolers? Give practical examples.

• Advantages and disadvantages of digital media in preschool?

• Explain your own experience as a child and digital media.

• Brief types of different digital media use by children now a days.

Blog (Theme 2)

                                       CHILDREN AND DIGITAL MEDIA 

When planning digital media activities for children, it is important to focus on age-appropriate content that promotes learning, creativity, and social-emotional development. Here are a few practical examples of digital media activities for children.

1. Interactive Storytelling Apps -Using apps like Storybooks or Endless Alphabet, preschoolers can engage with interactive stories and educational games. These apps allow children to explore new words, concepts, and characters, making reading fun and engaging.

2. Educational Games and Puzzles- Apps like PBS Kids offer fun, interactive games that help develop problem-solving skills, motor skills, and cognitive abilities. These games often include simple puzzles, shape recognition, and color-matching activities. 

3. Music and Rhythm Activities- Apps like Baby Mozart or Kidz Bop introduce preschoolers to music, rhythm, and sound through simple interactive music games, encouraging them to tap along to beats or play virtual instruments.

4. Creative Art and Drawing Apps- Apps like Doodle Buddy or Artful let children explore their creativity by drawing, coloring, and creating digital art. These apps usually feature easy-to-use tools that allow children to create designs while learning about shapes and colors.

5. Video-Based Learning- Platforms like YouTube Kids offer videos tailored for preschoolers that teach basic concepts like numbers, letters, and shapes, as well as social-emotional skills and manners through entertaining cartoons.

6.Simple Video Calls with Family or Friends- Use a video calling platform like Zoom or FaceTime to let children connect with family members or friends. These interactions promote social skills and emotional bonding, even from a distance.

By using these digital media activities in moderation, preschoolers can engage with technology in ways that are both fun and educational. Always ensure content is age-appropriate and provide supervision to support learning and safe usage.

References-

https://mybrightwheel.com/blog/technology-activities-for-preschoolers

https://www.naeyc.org/resources/topics/technology-and-media/preschoolers-and-kindergartners

Media literacy :Navigating the Digital World with Kids

How to teach media literacy in early childhood education?

In Finland, media literacy is recognized as an essential competence across all levels of education, including early childhood education and care (ECEC). The National Core Curriculum for ECEC emphasizes the development of multiliteracy, which encompasses media literacy, as a key component of children's learning.💗

 

To effectively teach media literacy in early childhood education, consider the following strategies:

• Integrate media education into daily activities🏃: Incorporate media literacy into various subjects and daily routines. Use age-appropriate media, such as educational videos, interactive apps, and digital storytelling, to engage children. Discuss the content with them, encouraging them to ask questions and express their thoughts.
• Develop critical thinking through play🎈: Utilize play-based learning to encourage children to question and analyze media content. Role-playing games can help them understand different perspectives and the intent behind various media messages.
• Encourage active media creation🌞: Allow children to create their own simple media, such as drawings, stories, or recordings. This hands-on approach helps them understand the process of media production and their own ideas and stories.
• Foster a safe media environment🌲: Create a learning environment where children feel safe to express their thoughts about media content. Discuss topics like screen time limits, the importance of taking breaks, and the difference between online and offline interactions.
• Collaborate with guardians👼: Engage with parents and caregivers to ensure consistent media literacy practices at home and in educational settings. Share resources and strategies to help them support their children's media literacy development.

By implementing these strategies, educators can lay a strong foundation for media literacy in young children, equipping them with the skills to navigate and critically engage with the media throughout their lives.🎇🎉🎊

Reference:

https://www.oph.fi/en/education-and-qualifications/national-core-curriculum-ecec-nutshell

https://www.erikson.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/747094_Erikson_MediaLiteracyReport-v6_102617-1.pdf

https://youtu.be/RbYBLEVjcVA?si=FT5RMPU00XwRereh

By Duruo