Information and Communication Technology (ICT) forms part of the Early Years Foundation Stage under the “Technology” aspect. However, ICT should be looked at inclusively across all areas of learning.
Here is the early learning goal for technology:
“Children recognise that a range of technology is used in places such as homes and schools. They select and use technology for particular purposes”
It is important to understand that ICT in early years is not restricted to using a computer or laptop.
For babies and young children, ICT is having access to battery-operated mobiles above their cots, toy radios and televisions with wind-up mechanisms, and toys with parts to press or lift.
These simple “cause and effect” toys help children to investigate how their actions have an effect on the resource, e.g. a button pressed makes a rabbit pop up, or a switch makes the farmyard door open.
For older children using a remote control to change channels on a television set or start playing a DVD is an example of cause and effect in real use.
ICT resources can greatly benefit children who have English as an additional language.
Many of the resources will support children to learn the language in a fun and interactive way.
ICT Equipment at Home
ICT equipment doesn’t have to be expensive, items such as calculators, electronic weighing scales, old telephones or musical floor mats are all good sources of ICT equipment.