In the last year especially, our society has learned of the fundamental importance of technology to education. Not only does the access to technological support literally expand the classroom, but it also does wonders to engage students in different ways.
When it comes to at-home learning, it’s crucial to that all devices and programs are age-appropriate. Whether it’s hybrid learning, completely remote, or supplementing education at home, selecting such devices and apps requires some specific considerations.
Check out our guidelines for at-home tech that’s best suited for K-2 students.
Recommended Devices:
- HP Chromebook x360 14b is stylish and sleek, but durable. The magnetic docking station eliminates the chances of losing the stylus (perfect for little ones), and it has a versatile 360° screen. The touchscreen is easy and engaging, allowing for pinching, tapping, zooming, and swiping.
- It’s hard to beat the intuitive nature of an iPad. The new iPad has tremendous capability and versatility in performance. Its easy-to-use home screen makes app selection effortless, and switching between programs is seamless, even for young kids. The new iPad has all of the old one’s capabilities at a surprisingly great price.
- Google’s Pixelbook Go a flexible, highly proficient device. It features a lightweight design with a textured bottom, which is perfect for little ones and drop-prevention. Its fast connection and high-resolution duo cam is an ideal must have for virtual learning. With 12 hours of battery, this small machine packs a big punch.
Educational Websites:
With all that exists on the Internet, sometimes it’s difficult to discern educational sites with entertainment. These sites are recommended by both parents and educators.
- Starfall is a site designed for pre-K through third grade, and is focused on phonics and aims to support reading skills.
- Fuel the Brain is perfect for age-appropriate and educational games. Its activities feature all subject areas.
- XtraMath is a great site for improving mathematical computation skills.
- Stories are a wonderful way to learn, and they provide a creative outlet for applying knowledge. Storybird is perfect for curious and eager second graders who want to create and share their own imaginations; with this program, they can produce a story and even “publish” it in the library.
- ABCMouse is a fun and functional site designed for ages 2-8. Make math, reading, science, and art interesting and engaging with over 10,000 activities. The program creates a step-by-step learning plan designed for each student.
K-2 learners are inquisitive and imaginative, and they need their technology to reflect their interests and capture (and keep!) their attention. These devices and websites are age-appropriate and created to keep young brains engaged and learning.