The best way for kids to learn is by doing. By going outside, by having new real-time experiences, making friends to build relationships – drawing, coloring, and painting to learn to express their creativity. In a perfect world, children could practically live outdoors as they learn.

But, we also know that sometimes busy schedules dominate parts of our daily routines, and it can be hard to accommodate being outside all day everyday amidst work schedules and activity schedules. As a result, a lot of parents have come to start leaning on technology as a way to keep children engaged while busy life is happening around them.

Sometimes an activity like technology that is a bit more hands off is necessary, and that’s understandable. But making sure that you are using technology in small doses is important, as well as ensuring the types of technology you’re using are as beneficial as possible for your children.

Promote Interactive Play

Interactive games where children can be more immersed in the learning experience can be helpful to the learning process. In a “smart age”, parents can download interactive game platforms right onto their smart phones and tablets for easy access. Well-known platforms like Learn with Homer are famous for their information-based interactive experiences that keep preschooler’s attention longer and entertain them but are still grounded in information and building strong learning foundations.

Use Creative-Focused Platforms

It is never too early to fuel your child’s creativity. And while being outside and physically immersing themselves in creative work is the best scenario, there are some substitutes that technology can provide. Look into apps and platforms for things like real-time drawing, where your child can access a blank canvas to draw and create in real-time, play around with different colors and designs, and get to flex their new creative muscles.

Outside of drawing, kids can express themselves through mixing and creating their own music tracks on platforms like Crayola DJ, an app that lets kids who are musically inclined created and “produce” their own music.

Use Informational Videos

Children tend to be visual learners, so compiling informational videos on free platforms like YouTube lets your child explore topic like math, history, and more in a fun, engaging way. Stick to shorter videos in smaller doses. This way your children won’t become reliant on video learning exclusively, but it can be a good way to “mix up” the ways in which they’re receiving information to give them a well-rounded learning experience.

Games that Encourage Learning

Much like the interactive games we already talked about, any game that is learning focused is the best way for your child to use technology. Word searches, puzzles, spelling games – all of these are fun, relaxed ways that children can learn while feeling like they’re having fun. Learning through play! (We’re big advocates of learning through play at the Simon Center.)

While we need to be cognizant of not letting children become dependent on technology – and making sure they’re comfortable and confident in traditional learning styles – there are positive ways to make use of technology in small, effective doses.