The Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMH) program discusses the importance of unplugging from technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in its latest Bright Kids Bright Future newsletter.
But it also discusses how technology can be used in positive ways to support children’s growth while balancing its use with play, real-world learning, and high-quality interactions.
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In the newsletter, the IECMH discusses how technology is evolving quickly – including the use of AI – and how children are naturally curious about these tools.
The program provides guidance for early childhood educators on how to use technology in early education settings and has shared a toolkit that helps educators to build knowledge about screens, media habits, and digital wellness in early childhood. There is also a discussion on the benefits and risks of screen time for neurodivergent children and another on how adults should guide preschoolers’ understanding of AI.
One section in the IECMH newsletter focuses on the importance of unplugging from technology and how this can strengthen relationships between children and caregivers. The resources in this section include:
- A video featuring a list of five steps for brain-building serve and return responsive interactions that can help to make stronger connections between adults and children
- A list of the four critical elements that show children that we are interested in what they say and do – our presence, playfulness, touch, and eye contact
- A NAEYC article on the relationships in children’s use of technology
- A checklist of effective practices to build connections with children
- An article on how children will begin to show interest in their peers as they grow as well as a desire to play with other children and develop close bonds with them
