Young children now have more access to multiple types of technology devices (smart phones, tablets, computers, gaming devices, Smart Boards, etc.) than at any other time, thanks in part to the pandemic. The impact of screen media is changing the nature of early childhood development and is shown to have a profound impact on how young children (birth to five years) learn, develop, behave, and socialize. This training will examine the pros, cons, and unknowns of how technology and social media influences child development and impacts personal and family relationships.

1.0 Child Growth and Development

       1.1 Understands typical and atypical development and multiple factors that influence development from conception through infancy and early childhood.

               e. Applies theories of growth, development, and learning into everyday practices.

                          i.    Applies relationship-based practices and family-centered practices to support the family in reducing risks that may negatively affect child health and development.

       1.2 Applies the process of assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation to support children’s growth through developmentally appropriate practices.

               a. Understands developmental sequences and milestones.

4.0 Environment and Curriculum

4.1 Develops and models genuine, supportive relationships

           d. Uses a variety of strategies for building relationships such as engaging in meaning and extended conversations, respecting each child’s uniqueness, using children’s names, being at children’s eye level, and smiling at children.

            j. Responds and adapts to each child, accommodating his/her temperament, personality, strengths, interests, and development patterns.

         4.2 Creates an environment that is predictable, promotes interaction and learning, and is responsive to the needs of all children

           a. Plans, implements, and adapts a supportive learning environment that promotes children’s safety, positive interactions, and behaviors

     g. Uses a variety of strategies to engage and maintain children’s attention and active participation

            m. Observes children and makes accommodations and modifications to ensure that all children participate meaningfully in the program

             4.6 Designs and implements activities and strategies to help meet the individual needs of all children in an integrated curriculum

             a. Designs and implements a child-centered environment that encourages autonomy, responsibility, and positive social skills through unplanned and planned activities

         d. Values and encourages inquiry by posing problems and asking questions that provoke children’s thinking and curiosity

           m. Selects and uses technology and media tools that have a clearly defined purpose and connection to the curriculum; promotes interaction, communication, and collaboration; and is developmentally appropriate

            n. Utilizes assistive technology to support individual learning needs by first considering the simplest and least intrusive while collaborating with families to ensure consistent and appropriate use