Teaching Digital Literacy from Preschool Onwards | KiddyNews

Experts call for stronger digital literacy guidance in early childhood education as new preschool curriculum rolls out

As Malaysia implements its new preschool curriculum, education and child development experts are raising concerns that one critical area may be missing: digital literacy.

While the curriculum focuses on six core learning domains designed to support holistic child development, experts say it does not explicitly address how young children should learn to navigate an increasingly digital world.

They argue that both preschools and parents have an important role to play in helping children develop healthy digital habits from an early age.

Technology Skills Begin Earlier Than Many Think

According to Dr Wo Su Woan, Senior Lecturer at Sunway University’s School of Psychology, countries such as Finland, Singapore and South Korea have already incorporated digital literacy into early childhood education, recognising that children’s technology habits begin forming as early as three years old.

She said the goal is not to increase screen exposure but to provide children with guided, age-appropriate experiences that complement their overall development.

“Well-designed digital activities in preschool can actually support social-emotional learning, cognitive growth and problem-solving skills,” she said.

Dr Wo cautioned that delaying conversations about digital literacy could leave children unprepared for the realities of modern life, while introducing technology without proper guidance could also create risks.

The Home Remains Children’s First Digital Classroom

Experts stressed that healthy digital habits are shaped not only in preschool settings but also at home.

Parent Action Group for Education Malaysia (PAGE) chairman Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim said many parents are trying to strike a balance between traditional childhood experiences and the growing presence of technology.

Parents continue to value books, handwriting, outdoor play and face-to-face interaction, she noted, but also recognise that digital devices have become part of everyday life.

She emphasised that families need practical guidance on managing screen use, including clear boundaries and age-appropriate conversations about technology.

Rather than viewing screens as entertainment alone, Noor Azimah suggested helping children understand them as tools that should be used responsibly.

Digital Literacy Does Not Mean More Screen Time

One common misconception, according to Dr Wo, is that digital literacy requires young children to spend more time using devices.

In reality, she said, digital literacy in early childhood is less about screen exposure and more about teaching children healthy attitudes, safety awareness and self-regulation.

Many of these lessons can be introduced through everyday offline activities.

Examples include teaching children to ask permission before using a device, recognising different types of digital technology around them, or discussing emotions when screen time comes to an end.

“These experiences help children develop healthy habits long before they become active digital users,” she explained.

Teaching Online Safety Through Stories and Play

Child protection advocates also believe digital awareness can be taught without placing children in front of screens.

Sarah Teo, a child protection officer with Suka Society, said concepts such as online safety, consent and personal boundaries can be introduced through stories, songs and play-based learning.

She pointed to the United Kingdom’s #TalkPANTS campaign as an example of how important safety concepts can be explained to young children in simple and age-appropriate ways.

Although originally designed to teach children about personal safety and consent, the same principles can later help children understand what information should not be shared online and when they should seek help from trusted adults.

According to Teo, digital safety is ultimately about values, behaviour and decision-making rather than technology itself.

Long-Term Benefits Beyond the Preschool Years

Experts believe that introducing digital literacy during the preschool years can bring lasting benefits throughout a child’s life.

Dr Wo said children who receive guided support in managing technology are more likely to develop stronger self-regulation, empathy and social skills. These qualities can contribute positively to their long-term mental health and wellbeing.

She also highlighted findings from UNICEF’s Global Kids Online project, which suggest that digital literacy helps children engage more safely and confidently in online environments while protecting their privacy and identity.

Beyond personal development, digital competence is increasingly viewed as an essential life skill for future education and employment.

Preparing Children for a Digital Future

As Malaysia strengthens its early childhood education system through the new preschool curriculum, experts believe discussions around digital literacy should form part of the broader conversation.

Their message is not that young children need more technology, but that they need thoughtful guidance to understand it.

In a world where digital experiences are becoming part of everyday childhood, experts say preparing children to use technology safely, responsibly and confidently may be just as important as teaching them to read, write and count.

Source:

The Star – “Shaping digital habits from preschool”

Thoughtfully adapted by KiddyNews. Keeping parents and educators informed with the latest ECCE developments from Malaysia and beyond.