The Problem: Too Much Screen, Too Little Writing Recent research across the globe highlights a concerning trend: young children spending more time on mobile devices and less time engaging in activities like writing and active learning. Distraction Over Learning Smartphones and apps use persuasive designs to keep attentionâleading children toward entertainment rather than focus-driven tasks like writing or drawing. School Readiness Impact Children today often enter school lagging behind in literacy and writing skills. Some expert studies link this decline to early and excessive exposure to screens instead of handsâon play and writing. In Australia, a widening gap in literacy achievement has been tied to screen-based learning. Experts call for more penâandâpaper experiences to build deeper reading and writing ability. A report from Franceâled by educational expertsâwent further, advocating to limit screen exposure until at least age six and reduce digital use in early education to preserve learning and well-being. Why This Matters for Young Learners Practical Tips for Parents How Effling Kids Helps At Effling Kids, we’ve created fun, structured learning tools to support this balance: By encouraging parents to assign regular practice with Effling Kids, children spend more time writing, less time scrollingâand reduce screen dependency while boosting essential skills.
Category: Screentime
Tech in Classrooms: Ban or Balance?
Recently, Denmark made headlines by announcing a ban on mobile phones and tablets in schools and after-school programs for children aged 7 to 17. Itâs a bold moveâand one that has sparked global debate about the role of digital devices in education. While such a step may seem extreme, it reflects a growing concern among educators and policymakers: Are we using technology to empower learning, or is it becoming a distraction? Denmark’s Stand: Ban to Protect Focus Denmarkâs new policy aims to protect children’s focus, reduce digital addiction, and revive meaningful human interaction in learning spaces. It highlights a growing realityâchildren are increasingly consumed by screens, often at the cost of attention, creativity, and real-world connection. This isn’t just Denmark. Countries like France and the Netherlands have also restricted smartphone use in schools, pointing to a rising need to rethink howâand whenâchildren engage with technology. Finlandâs Approach: Balance, Not Ban In contrast, Finland, known globally for its exceptional education system, takes a more balanced approach. In early education (under age 7), digital devices are limited. Instead, the focus is on play-based, hands-on, and outdoor learning. But Finland doesn’t reject technology. As children grow, digital tools are slowly introduced, with purpose. Whether itâs creating stories on tablets, learning to type, or exploring coding basics, tech is used as a support tool, not a centerpiece. Finland’s message is clear: Technology should support pedagogyânot replace it. What This Means for the Future of Education As the founder of Effling Kids, I see both approaches as valuable lessons. Banning devices outright may protect attention, but the real opportunity lies in designing better, age-appropriate tech that understands a childâs developmental needs. Young children donât need more screen timeâthey need smart, interactive tools that: Itâs Not About More TechâItâs About the Right Tech At Effling Kids, we believe in building tech that works with the child, not against their nature. Tools that feel more like learning and less like scrolling. This is not just a product choiceâitâs a responsibility. Letâs not confuse screen exposure with digital literacy. Real learning happens when technology respects childhood. The future of education isnât in banning all tech or embracing it blindlyâitâs in designing it responsibly.Balance, intention, and child-first thinking should guide every decision we make. FAQ 1. Is technology good for preschool classrooms?When used wisely, educational tech like Effling can boost creativity, focus, and personalized learning. 2. How can parents ensure safe screen time?By setting time limits, using ad-free apps like Effling, and co-learning with children. 3. Are there educational apps approved by teachers?Yes, Effling is developed with input from experienced teachers to ensure quality learning. â Pankaj, Founder of Effling Kids
