Today’s children are growing up in a world surrounded by screens and smart devices, something that previous generations did not experience in the same way. While technology can be helpful and has its place in family life, it is important to pause and reflect on how much screen time very young children are exposed to, and what they may be missing out on during these crucial early years.
When children spend long periods engaging with screens, there can be fewer opportunities for the rich, face-to-face interactions that help build communication skills, confidence, and emotional understanding.
Young children learn so much from watching expressions, listening to voices, taking turns in conversation, and responding to others around them.
These experiences support attention, social skills, and a growing sense of self in ways that screens simply cannot replace.
Many electronic toys and devices are designed to be instantly rewarding, lights flash, sounds play, and actions are completed with the push of a button. While this can be exciting in the moment, it can sometimes limit opportunities for children to problem-solve, persevere, and explore ideas in their own time. Open-ended play allows children to think, experiment, and make decisions, helping them to develop creativity, curiosity, and confidence in their own abilities.
Here at Shotley Bridge Nursery School, we believe that children learn best through meaningful connections, with caring adults, with their peers, and with the world around them. We know that children will have ample opportunities to engage with digital technology as they grow older, therefore in the early years we take a mindful approach and choose to exclude screens from our nursery environment. Instead, we explore technology in developmentally appropriate ways, such as through lights, construction, mechanisms, and real-life experiences that spark curiosity and encourage exploration.
Our days are filled with child-led play using natural resources, loose parts, and open-ended materials. Most importantly, our experienced and attentive practitioners play a vital role in supporting learning, modelling language, asking thoughtful questions, and encouraging children to explore, take risks, and share ideas. We are passionate about providing rich, hands-on experiences that nurture imagination, independence, and a love of learning, laying strong foundations for children as they grow.
✨ Want to see how open-ended play supports your child’s development? Visit us to find out more about our screen-free approach and the rich, hands-on learning experiences we offer. ✨
