Blog

As parents, we may tend to think that screen time is just something to be moderated and monitored. Within reasonable limits, devices and educational websites can actually be valuable resources for your child’s learning journey. They provide stimulation that can enhance teamwork, creativity, language, and social skills. The WHO (World Health Organisation) recommends no more than one hour of high-quality screen time for children aged 2-5 years old in accordance with guidelines on sedentary behaviour. Therefore, augmenting your child’s learning with websites for a limited period of time each day, and especially as they get older, is a resourceful way to assist their love of learning. Remember, websites can’t match the benefits of instruction with a parent or carer, but they can supplement practice in reading, comprehension, numeric concepts, and play.

1. ABC Kids

The ABC Kids website is a great resource filled with information and games starring characters that are favourites among ABC Kids TV watchers. The website focuses on early literacy, numeracy, and other developmental skills. The ABC Kids listen app provides children and families with music and stories that are entertaining, appropriate, and educational. It also features an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander profile, which shares Australian history by visiting the history of different mobs, with their diverse languages and culture.

2. Reading Eggs Junior

Reading Eggs Junior is an online reading program specifically designed for children aged 2-4. It focuses on introducing early reading and phonics skills through interactive games, stories, and songs. The program aims to develop a love for reading and build foundational literacy skills. It has a huge catalogue of child-friendly books and games. This is one of the easiest ways to encourage your child to read at a higher level and provide extra support before kindergarten.

3. National Geographic Kids

Designed especially for curious children, this interactive website invites children under 5 on exciting adventures through cool videos, fascinating facts, and engaging games. It provides information about your child’s favourite animals and biomes, and also teaches children about sustainability and the value of earth’s resources. National Geographic Kids sparks your child’s imagination, fosters a love for the natural world, and encourages early learning in a fun and age-appropriate way.

4. Play School

Play School is probably already one of your child’s favourite TV shows. The website explores shapes, colours, numbers, and letters through engaging videos, catchy songs, and storytelling. You and your child are able to watch old Play School episodes, and entirely new snippets. This is a great resource for vibrant visuals and friendly, recognisable characters. Continue the fun off the screen with free colouring-in print-outs and arts and craft instructions. The Play School website also has simple recipes from the show that you and your little one can follow together.

Australian children under the age of 5 have access to a multitude of excellent websites that offer a wealth of educational resources. Unlike any previous generation, our children now have an unprecedented opportunity to explore and learn through these online platforms. These websites encompass a diverse range of interactive games, videos, activities, and resources meticulously crafted to captivate young minds and enrich their educational experiences. From nurturing early literacy and numeracy skills to fostering creativity, problem-solving abilities, and social development, these platforms create a secure and enjoyable online space where children can explore, learn, and flourish.