Digitalisation is transforming education as well as social and economic life, with implications for childhood. Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), with its immense potential to shape children’s early development, learning and well-being, can play a major role in addressing the opportunities and risks that digitalisation brings to young children.

Digitalisation is transforming education as well as social and economic life, with implications for childhood. Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), with its immense potential to shape children's early development, learning and well-being, can play a major role in addressing the opportunities and risks that digitalisation brings to young children. Digitalisation also creates new ways of working that have the potential to lead to quality improvement in the ECEC sector. This report provides a 360-degree view of the challenges of digitalisation in ECEC and possible policy responses

Young Children Playing and Learning in a Digital Age explores the emergence of the digital age and young children’s experiences with digital technologies at home and in educational environments. Drawing on theory and research-based evidence, this book makes an important contribution to understanding the contemporary experiences of young children in the digital age. It argues that a cultural and critically informed perspective allows educators, policy-makers and parents to make sense of children’s digital experiences as they play and learn, enabling informed decision-making about future early years curriculum and practices at home and in early learning and care settings. An essential read for researchers, students, policy-makers and professionals working with children today, this book draws attention to the evolution of digital developments and the relationship between contemporary technologies, play and learning in the early years.

Childhood is changing in ways that we are still unpacking, affected by digitalization, globalization and climate change, as well as shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic. In many OECD education systems, child empowerment is increasingly an explicit aim of policies and practices. But it is often poorly defined, which risks turning it into a mere slogan. With the advancement of children’s rights, children are increasingly being included as stakeholders in decision-making processes. This report gives examples of how children in OECD countries can and do participate in making decisions about issues that affect them. The report examines children's emotional well-being and physical activity, and the role of schools as a physical space to create and support relationships. It also underlines the untapped potential of media education when it comes to seizing opportunities in childhood. Empowering all children to make the most of digital opportunities starts with further narrowing the gap in terms of access to digital tools and the Internet, where inequalities are persistent and pervasive. So, what does child empowerment mean today? Empowered children have the opportunity and ability to act on issues important and relevant to them, can learn by making mistakes, and are key contributors to democracy.

Digital practices are forging ahead in leaps and bounds. Examining digital practices in early childhood education, this book seeks to inform the discussion on how digital technologies are best integrated into play-based pedagogy, and demonstrates effective practices that enhance children’s learning and development. With a range of international contributors, perspectives, and case studies, the fusion of play and portable technology is explored through contemporary research.

The first years of life lay the foundations for a child’s future development and learning. Reflecting on the important role of early childhood education and care (ECEC) services in providing all children with the skills they need to be successful in school, many countries have increased their ...

In this book, we have explored various aspects of empowering kids in the digital age, providing parents with valuable insights, strategies, and resources to support safe tech use and online education for their children. From understanding the digital landscape and promoting responsible technology use to fostering digital literacy skills and navigating online challenges, we have covered a wide range of topics to help parents navigate the complexities of the digital world. Throughout the chapters, several key themes have emerged: 1. Understanding and Awareness: Parents must understand the digital world their children navigate, including popular apps, online trends, and potential risks. Awareness of the benefits and risks of technology is crucial for making informed decisions and promoting safe and responsible tech use. 2. Communication and Trust: Open communication is essential for building trust, fostering healthy relationships, and addressing concerns effectively. Parents should create safe spaces for dialogue, listen empathetically to their children's experiences, and engage in ongoing conversations about technology use and online safety. 3. Education and Empowerment: Empowering children to navigate the digital world confidently and responsibly requires education, guidance, and support. Parents play a central role in teaching digital literacy skills, promoting online safety, and instilling positive values and behaviors in their children. 4. Balance and Moderation: Achieving a balanced approach to technology use involves setting healthy screen time limits, promoting offline activities, and establishing boundaries around technology use. Balancing online and offline experiences helps children develop well-rounded skills and interests while maintaining their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. 5. Collaboration and Advocacy: Supporting children in the digital age requires collaboration among parents, educators, policymakers, and technology companies. Parents can advocate for safer online environments, collaborate with schools and communities, and stay informed about developments in technology and online safety