The preschool years are when the “Can I watch it?” stage kicks in full force.
It’s also when screen habits start to form, fast.
At this age, your child isn’t just learning their ABCs. They’re learning how to learn, how to pay attention, and, critically, what to trust.
So here’s your goal in this stage:
Use tech to fuel curiosity, not just quiet the chaos.
You don’t need to ban screens. But you do need to anchor them in connection, creativity, and context. Let tech be a tool, not a default.
What to Teach (Ages 3–6)
1. Ask questions about what they see.
Even if it’s Daniel Tiger or a counting game, help them wonder:
“Who made this?”
“Is this pretend or real?”
“What do you think will happen next?”
You’re not just building media literacy, you’re teaching critical thinking.
2. Learn to tell real vs. pretend.
Young kids don’t naturally distinguish between marketing and stories. That toy unboxing video may look like play, but it’s a commercial. Teach them to spot the difference.
3. Practice balance.
This is the age where tech can easily go from occasional helper to constant habit. Establish early that screens are one way to learn and play—not the only way.
Action Steps You Can Take
1. Co-view and co-play.
Sit with your child during screen time. Narrate what’s happening. Ask questions. It’s not just about monitoring, it’s about meaning-making.
“I wonder who made this app.”
“Do you think that’s how things work in real life?”
“Let’s make up our own ending!”
2. Prioritize creation over consumption.
Use apps that let your child draw, build, or tell a story, not just tap and swipe. Even better: let screen time lead to real-world play.
Watched a video about animals? Go outside and “explore like a zookeeper.”
Played a shape game? Build those shapes with blocks after.
3. Set tech-free zones and times.
Make device-free moments part of your family rhythm. Examples:
Mornings: no screens until you’ve gotten dressed, eaten, and talked
Mealtime: screens off for everyone
Car rides: music, conversation, or quiet over iPads
These are the small rituals that build habits and signal that not all boredom needs a screen to fix it.
Tools & Resources That Help
Daniel Tiger’s Parent App (PBS): Built-in conversation starters that turn screen time into learning
ScratchJr: A creative app that lets kids build their own interactive stories. This is a great intro to logic, sequence, and expression for kids ages 5-7.
Common Sense Media’s preschool guide: Curated reviews of age-appropriate shows (STEM shows), games, and apps
What You’re Really Teaching
In these years, you’re teaching your child:
That tech is something we think about, not just consume
That not everything on a screen is real, good, or meant for them
That their brain is more powerful than the algorithm
And you’re teaching yourself to hold the line for them, and for you.
Because it’s tempting to reach for the iPad when things get loud or messy or busy. But every time you choose a different rhythm, you’re helping them build habits that will serve them for years.
Next Friday, we’re heading into the ages 7–9 zone. That’s when kids start clicking independently, encountering ads, and getting curious about other people’s devices. We’ll talk about privacy, attention, and the power of asking better questions.
Until then, be curious, co-watch, and trust your gut.
You know when tech is helping your child grow, and when it’s just filling silence.