Foundations

Building Strong Foundations in Children

The Importance of Hands-On Learning in a Digital World

In today's technology-driven society, it's impossible to ignore how smartphones, tablets, and AI tools have crept into our lives—especially when it comes to how we nurture our children. As a teacher who has dedicated years to advocating for hands-on learning, I've often found myself reflecting on the challenges and risks these early introductions to technology present, particularly for children under the age of eight. This is a critical stage, where children’s brains, social skills, and emotional intelligence are still forming. My hope is to inspire a shift towards embracing the physical world, a change that prioritizes hands-on exploration over early tech exposure.

My Own Foundation

A Childhood of Exploration and Discovery

Looking back at my childhood, I recognize how blessed I was to have opportunities for hands-on learning that enriched my understanding of the world. I remember an afternoon spent soaking beans in water to watch them sprout—simple yet profound lessons in growth and patience unfolded before my eyes. My mother, a dedicated teacher, revelled in showing me the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly—an awe-inspiring reminder of the beauty of change that I carry with me to this day.

The kitchen became an arena for exploration, where I not only developed coordination but also deepened my awareness of texture and taste. I can still recall the sensory joy of kneading dough with my small hands, feeling the transformative power of simple ingredients coming together. These moments were not just about learning; they were filled with joy, and each memory has left an indelible mark on who I am.

Weekends were often packed with adventure—my mother would take me to science exhibitions, where the thrill of interacting with real animals ignited a passion within me. The excitement of holding a snake, for instance, isn’t merely a childhood memory; it symbolizes my budding respect for nature and my deep-rooted curiosity that would later influence my artistic aspirations. Through tactile experiences, I learned to explore and express myself—building small houses with sticks and stones with other children and allowing creativity to lead the way.

The Challenges of Today’s Technology-Focused World

Today, the landscape is drastically different. Children are often given smartphones or tablets at astonishingly young ages. While parents may see these devices as educational or convenient, research reveals concerning, long-term impacts on children’s cognitive and emotional development. In my workshops, I frequently discuss the potential pitfalls of early screen exposure, which can impair development in multiple ways, such as:

Delayed Language and Social Skills:

Early exposure to screens often leads to reduced face-to-face interaction, essential for developing communication skills and emotional intelligence.

Reduced Attention Span:

The fast-paced nature of digital media can make it difficult for a child to focus on a single task for extended periods.

Sleep Disruptions:

Screens emit blue light, which interferes with natural sleep cycles, often resulting in irregular sleep and increased fatigue.

Behavioural Issues:
Early screen use has been linked to impulsivity and difficulty managing frustration in young children.

Hindered Physical Development:

Dependence on screens can reduce physical playtime, impacting the development of gross and fine motor skills.

Limited Imagination and Play Skills:

Digital devices often cut down on free, imaginative playtime, which is crucial for social and cognitive growth.

Exposure to Inappropriate Content:

Without careful monitoring, children may inadvertently access harmful or age-inappropriate material online.

Weakened Parent-Child Bond:

High screen usage can reduce meaningful interactions, impacting the essential bonds that nurture security and trust.

The Risks of Introducing AI Tools Too Early

While screens alone can impact early development, the rise of AI introduces additional complexities, especially for children under eight. Although AI has creative applications, its potential drawbacks at this young age include:

Diminished Fine Motor Skills:

Relying on digital devices limits the hands-on engagement that builds fine motor skills critical for drawing, writing, and self-care tasks.

Impatience and Instant Gratification:

AI generates results almost instantly, which can make children expect immediate outcomes, diminishing perseverance and resilience.

Risk of Exposure to Inappropriate Content:

AI algorithms may not always filter out unsuitable material, posing risks to young, impressionable minds.

Lack of Emotional Connection to Art:

When children rely on AI for creation, they may miss the emotional and personal connection that comes from fully investing in their work.

A Call to Parents:

Building a Strong Foundation Without Screens
For our children to grow into well-rounded adults with the skills to navigate a complex world, we must cultivate their foundations using real-world experiences. I urge parents to delay the introduction of smartphones or tablets until children are at least eight years old. Instead, embrace hands-on learning experiences that foster curiosity, perseverance, and creativity. Here are some alternatives to consider:

Encourage Outdoor Exploration:

Take children to parks, gardens, or nature walks. Watching a caterpillar transform or feeling the texture of tree bark fosters an enduring respect for the environment.

Provide Art Supplies:

Engage children with drawing, painting, and sculpting to develop fine motor skills while igniting their creative spirits.

Introduce Simple Science Experiments:

Watching a seed grow into a sprout or constructing structures with blocks teaches patience and cause-and-effect dynamics.

Promote Family Interaction:

Cooking together, reading story books to your kids, and playing board games together can enhance family bonds and teach vital social skills.

Conclusion:

Creating a Foundation for Lifelong Growth

The formative years of a child’s life are precious and irreplaceable. If we choose to prioritize hands-on, real-world interactions over screen time, we can help our children cultivate the skills they need to flourish in life. In an increasingly digital age, these experiences serve as grounding pillars, equipping them to thrive—where technology complements but never supersedes their innate curiosity, creativity, and resilience.

Having experienced the power of hands-on learning, I encourage parents to lay down a strong foundation for their children—one that honours the beauty and wonders of the real world and nurtures their growth in every sense. Together, let’s build a future where children grow up connected to the world around them, with the resilience and creativity they’ll need for life’s challenges.