Tapping into Technology

Abstract

In our growing digital age, young children are inevitably exposed to a variety of technology and media devices. We see 2-year olds taking “selfies” on their parents’ phones, iPads and e-readers filled with children’s books and games, and thousands of songs stored on iPods for children to listen to and sing along. The ways in which young children experience music has drastically changed during the past few years. As parents, we see our children explore and use the most advanced devices, but as teachers, we know that our classrooms may not necessarily have the resources to support music learning through these (often expensive) devices. This article examines how children are experiencing music in their digital world, and provides ideas for encouraging music listening, music making, and music watching, in ways that are appropriate for young children. All of these ideas can be implemented in home and school settings and include the use of a variety of digital media.