In an age where technology permeates every aspect of life, its influence on early childhood education is both inevitable and transformative. From toddlers navigating touchscreens to preschoolers exploring interactive apps, digital tools are becoming integral to the way children learn and engage with the world.

However, with the doors to unlimited possibilities opening up, there are many challenges that one must face head-on. For example, when a child reads something on the internet, even if it’s for a specific task, they are likely to skim through and end up reading irrelevant material. A significant question that arises is how can parents make sure this technology is engaging, purposeful, and beneficial for their child in ways that do not interfere with a child’s developmental stages?

Understanding Digital Literacy in the Context of Early Childhood

Before discussing balance, it’s crucial to define what digital literacy means for young children. At its core, digital literacy isn’t about screen time alone but about teaching children to use technology as a tool for exploration, creativity, and problem-solving. It involves fostering skills such as navigating digital platforms safely, discerning credible information, and even early coding concepts in an age-appropriate way. These foundational skills set the stage for lifelong learning and adaptability in a technology-driven world.

Balancing Screens and Hands-On Learning

The challenge for educators and parents is integrating technology in a way that enhances rather than replaces hands-on learning. Here are some strategies to achieve this balance:

• Set Screen Time Guidelines: The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests limiting screen time to no more than one hour per day for children aged 2-5 years. It’s important to ensure that screen time is purposeful, focusing on educational apps or interactive videos that promote learning rather than passive entertainment.
• Encourage Active Participation: When children engage with technology, it’s important for adults to participate alongside them. By discussing the content, asking open-ended questions, and connecting it to real-life scenarios, parents and teachers can help deepen understanding and encourage critical thinking.
• Combine Digital and Physical Activities: A balanced approach can be as simple as using an educational app to explore animals, followed by a hands-on activity like making animal masks. This integration reinforces digital learning while fostering creativity through physical interaction.
• Promote Outdoor Play: Time spent in natural, unstructured play encourages physical development and sparks creativity. It’s important to balance screen time with outdoor activities that stimulate the senses and foster overall well-being.
  Choose Age-Appropriate Resources: Select apps and devices specifically designed for young children. Look for those that encourage active, hands-on learning rather than passive viewing, helping to ensure that technology is used effectively to support early development.

The Bigger Picture: Technology as a Tool, Not a Replacement

While technology offers immense possibilities, it is crucial to remember that it should complement—not replace—traditional methods of learning and play. Activities such as outdoor exploration, arts and crafts, and unstructured play are also significant for physical and cognitive development. These activities allow the child to develop creativity, problem-solving, and social skills, which can never be achieved through the screens.

With the help of digital literacy, children can understand how to live and behave in the digital world more safely. Following this, while developing online relationships, etiquette and privacy issues can be taught to children in early childhood programs. At the same time, parents can reinforce these lessons by setting good examples of using digital technology and establishing “no technology” areas in the house.

The appropriate technology ratio with hands-on activities can prepare children to adapt as the world evolves and becomes more digital. Parents and educators must actively find that balance where technology can enhance the chances of success rather than hinder the child’s development.

The digital revolution has transformed the way we live, work and learn. However, in the end, it’s not about eliminating screens—it’s about using them wisely to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation. The key lies in balance, intention and a shared vision for a future where technology and childhood coexist harmoniously.

Written By :
Mr. Jitendra Karsan Boricha,     Chairman, Safari Kid India

With 25+ years of entrepreneurial success, Mr. Jitendra Karsan Boricha launched Safari Kid in 2013, establishing it as India’s premier preschool for holistic early childhood education.  Under his visionary leadership, Safari Kid rapidly rose to become the preschool of choice for India's elite. 
Beyond his professional achievements, Jitendra is an avid reader with an extensive interest in genres ranging from fiction to motivational and business literature. His love for storytelling inspired him to write children’s storybooks for Safari Kid, weaving moral values and life lessons into engaging narratives that nurture young minds and spark curiosity. 
These insightful blogs reflect his deep passion for parenting, early childhood education fostering young minds. Through his writing, he shares valuable perspectives to help parents and educators in nurturing the next generation.