Glen Education McKinnon
Safe and Purposeful use of Technology at Glen McKinnon Kindergarten
By Maria-Paula Acevedo-Gonzalez, Early Childhood Teacher
With the rapid advancement of information and communication technologies, children today are growing up in a digital world. From a very young age, they are exposed to online platforms and digital tools. At Glen McKinnon Kindergarten, we recognise both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with this reality.
The Australian Government Department of Health recommends that children aged 2 to 5 years have no more than one hour of screen time per day. Guided by this, we are intentional in how we incorporate digital technologies into our educational programs—ensuring their use is purposeful, safe, and developmentally appropriate.
Technology in Our Learning Framework
Our curriculum is grounded in the Early Years Learning Framework, which supports the use of digital tools to enhance learning. Learning Outcome 5 – Communication, highlights that:
“Children use information and communication technologies to access information, explore ideas, and communicate their thoughts and feelings.”
We take a balanced approach to technology, with educators modelling healthy habits and guiding children to use digital tools for:
- Documenting learning
- Exploring, researching and investigating new ideas
- Fostering community through music and movement
Documenting Learning with Respect and Care
Documenting children’s learning is a vital part of our practice. We use photographs to capture meaningful moments—always with family consent. Upon enrolment, families are asked to provide permission for the use of images, and we use only work iPads for this purpose.
Jun reflects:
"Before taking photos of children or using them to document children's learning, we always seek parental consent to uphold the rights of families. If consent is not given, children’s learning will be documented through alternative methods, such as written observations or photographs of their work only”.
Children’s voices are also respected. If a child does not wish to be photographed, we honour that choice and the children are invited to take their own photos or choose when they’d like a picture taken.
Children are the owners of their images; therefore, we share with them how their pictures will be used.
Sharon shares:
“When taking photos on the iPad we make every attempt to show the children their images, and we explain to the children that their photos and work will be displayed in our documentation”
Technology as a Tool for Learning
Digital tools are used to support learning in meaningful ways. Whether it is researching a topic, investigating or exploring ideas, checking the spelling of a word, or finding an image for inspiration, children learn that technology can be a valuable tool for learning and discovery.
All online content is carefully selected and monitored to ensure it is educational, age-appropriate, free from advertisements and short in duration. When educational videos are included in the program, these are short (typically 5–6 minutes maximum) and are presented while keeping a safe distance from screen.
Winnie notes:
“We screen the videos before playing to the children to make sure all the content is appropriate to children, and we choose videos without pop-up advertisement”.
Learning Languages with ELLA
Children at Glen McKinnon Kindergarten are also learning Mandarin through The Polyglots, a series of interactive apps developed by the Australian Government’s Early Learning Languages Australia (ELLA) program.
Each child has limited, supervised access (5 minutes per week), and educators facilitate conversations around turn-taking and respectful use of shared devices, ensuring there is no passive engagement (watching the screen while others take their turn).
Jo shares:
“Having clear boundaries and allowing children to build healthy habits while engaging sets up a sense of responsibility from the start”
Building Community Through Music and Movement
Technology also brings joy into our program through music and dance. Whether it’s soft music for relaxation or upbeat songs for movement, these experiences promote physical development (e.g. balance, coordination, crossing of the middle line); encourage following instructions and foster a sense of belonging and community.
Through these experiences, children’s sense of identity is strengthened as they are given the opportunity of choosing songs and sharing their favourites. Educators act as facilitators, ensuring content is appropriate and inclusive.
Technology in Imaginative Play
Children naturally incorporate technology into their play. In our imaginative play areas, devices such as keyboards, phones, and/or tablets—both real and crafted by children— are used in role-play scenarios like hospitals, supermarkets, and offices.
These experiences help children understand how technology supports communication, collaboration, and creativity in the world around them.
At Glen McKinnon Kindergarten, we are committed to:
- Providing safe, intentional access to digital technologies
- Ensuring screen time is limited and meaningful
- Supporting children to become confident, respectful digital citizens
By integrating technology thoughtfully, we enhance our educational program while helping children navigate the digital world with curiosity and care.