SHILOH PAYNE
Young minds are being shaped by technology like never before, with e-books, apps and online educational games replacing traditional learning methods.
Local developers are working to meet the demand for quality offerings, with Brisbane production company Like A Photon Creative launching their first children’s reading app – KinderGo – in August.
Founder Kristen Souvlis describes the platform as a digital playground designed for children aged two to seven.
“KinderGo creates a learning experience for kids as well as a platform for Australian authors, publishers and illustrators,” Souvlis said.
With lock-out timing features, a no-ad guarantee and educational content KinderGo proves appealing to children and parents
Psychologist and PhD Candidate Shelly Weaver said as tech devices become everyday tools in schools, the use of educational apps in early childhood will allow for a smooth transition into primary education.
“Children seem to learn how to use technology very quickly when they are exposed to it at a young age, which may benefit them when it comes time to use technology for school work,” Ms Weaver said.
However, it was healthy to monitor technology use to ensure children are spending time on more physical activities.
“I would recommend exposing children to various different modes of learning – traditional learning devices like books, electronic devices, and other modes as well such a kinaesthetic learning games,” Ms Weaver said.
“Children learn in all different ways.”
Hannah Mckone, a mother of two young children, said she is excited to watch her girls grow up in a technological era.
“I’ve seen my children pick up things from watching TV. I know I can teach my kids all these things via traditional play but it’s nice to see them learning via technology,” Ms Mckone said.