Smart, Safe, and Small: Our Approach to Screen Time and Digital Safety
We live in a connected world. Digital technology is everywhere - from the phones in our pockets to the screens in our living rooms. But when it comes to early childhood, we know that many families worry about how much is "too much."
At Evolution Early Learning, we want to reassure you: we believe childhood is for exploring, creating, and connecting with people, not just pixels. We want your children to engage with the world, not a screen.
However, we also know that digital literacy is a skill children will eventually need. That is why we have developed a responsive, safety-first approach to technology that prioritises healthy habits, active supervision, and education.
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Strict Limits: Quality Over Quantity
We don't use screens to fill time. We strictly adhere to the Australian Government’s physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines regarding screen time.
Under 2 Years: We have a zero screen time policy for our children under two. Their days are filled with sensory play, face-to-face interaction, and physical movement.
2 to 5 Years: For our older children, screen use is very limited (less than one hour per day total, though in practice often much less) and is exclusively educational.
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A "Hands-On" Approach to Digital Safety
When technology is used in our centre, it is never a passive activity. Our hands-on educators act as guides, ensuring the experience is safe, social, and supervised.
We have implemented strict protocols to ensure your child’s safety:
Service-Issued Devices Only: To maintain complete control over content and security, our educators ensure children are only able to access age-appropriate technology on secure, service-issued (never personal) devices.
Open & Observable: We only permit children to use devices in open areas where educators can easily monitor what they are viewing and doing.
Never Unattended: Just as we wouldn't leave a child alone near a pool, we never leave them alone online. We ensure children are always supervised and never left unattended whilst an electronic device is connected to the internet.
Technology is a Tool, Not a Reward
We believe technology should be used intentionally to support learning - for example, looking up a photo of an insect found in the garden or listening to cultural music.Crucially, we ensure that screen time is NOT used as a reward or to manage challenging behaviours under any circumstances. We want children to develop emotional regulation skills through connection with our educators, not through distraction by a device.
Empowering Children to Be Safe
Safety isn't just about blocking bad websites; it's about teaching children how to navigate the world safely.
We introduce concepts about online safety at age-appropriate levels. A key part of this is empowering their voice. We teach children that if they encounter anything unexpected online that makes them feel uncomfortable, scared, or upset, they can seek support from staff immediately.
By creating a safe, open environment where children feel heard, we are helping them build the confidence to stay safe as they grow.
A Collaborative Partnership
Navigating the digital world is a big job, and we are here to support you. Our management team is accessible and ready to discuss our policies or answer any questions you might have about managing screen time at home.
Together, we can ensure your child gets the best of both worlds: a safe introduction to technology, and a childhood full of real-world adventure.
A Collaborative Partnership
Navigating the digital world is a big job, and we are here to support you. Our management team is accessible and ready to discuss our policies or answer any questions you might have about managing screen time at home.
Together, we can ensure your child gets the best of both worlds: a safe introduction to technology, and a childhood full of real-world adventure.
Our Happy Families
Book a tour at either of our Mooloolaba or Kuluin childcare centres to fully experience our philosophy.
Ready to get started? Complete our enrolment form today.
Looking for a rewarding career at Evolution Early Learning?
We are always looking for professionals who are as passionate and dedicated as we are in creating and delivering high-quality outcomes for children.
Whether you have been in the industry for years, or just starting. Apply today and be part of a leading childcare provider on the Sunshine Coast!