Key Takeaways
- Winona Area Public Schools’ Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) program will offer a four‑part series titled “Managing Technology in Your Family” in May.
- Sessions run Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on May 7, 14, 21, and 28 at Goodview School (5100 9th St).
- Each meeting features a dual‑track format: children engage in play‑based, developmentally appropriate activities while caregivers discuss technology impacts, strategies, and best practices.
- The curriculum draws on research‑based resources such as The Screenagers Project, The Anxious Generation, Dopamine Kids, and guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
- The program is open to children from birth to age 9; infants who are not yet walking remain with a parent or caregiver.
- Families may attend any number of sessions; registration is completed online at https://waps.pub/ecfe_technology.
- For questions, contact Lynnea Pfohl at [email protected].
Program Overview
Winona Area Public Schools’ Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) department is launching a timely initiative to help families navigate the ever‑growing presence of digital devices in the home. Titled “Managing Technology in Your Family,” the four‑part series aims to equip parents, guardians, and young children with practical tools and evidence‑based insights for fostering healthy screen habits. By addressing both the benefits and potential pitfalls of technology use, the program seeks to promote balanced lifestyles that support children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development while strengthening family connections in a digitally saturated world.
Session Schedule and Location
The series will be held on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., specifically on May 7, May 14, May 21, and May 28. All meetings take place at Goodview School, located at 5100 9th Street in Winona. This consistent weekday evening schedule accommodates working families while providing a predictable routine that encourages regular attendance. The venue offers accessible parking, child‑friendly spaces, and meeting rooms designed to facilitate both active play for children and focused discussion for adults.
Dual‑Track Format for Children and Caregivers
Each session employs a dual‑track approach that separates yet parallels the experiences of children and their caregivers. While children participate in supervised play, snack time, and age‑appropriate learning stations, parents and guardians convene in a separate area for guided conversations about technology use. This structure ensures that youngsters remain engaged in developmental activities tailored to their needs, while adults receive uninterrupted time to reflect, ask questions, and share experiences without distraction.
Developmentally Appropriate Activities for Young Learners
The children’s component of the program features a variety of play‑based activities designed to support motor, language, and social skills. These include sensory tables, building blocks, story‑time circles, and guided movement games that encourage creativity and peer interaction. Snacks are provided in a nutritious, kid‑friendly format, reinforcing healthy habits alongside the technology theme. All activities are selected by ECFE specialists to align with developmental milestones for children ranging from infancy to age 9, ensuring that each participant receives stimulation appropriate to their stage of growth.
Guided Discussions for Parents and Caregivers
While children are engaged in play, caregivers explore topics such as screen time recommendations, the impact of digital media on attention and anxiety, strategies for setting consistent boundaries, and ways to use technology as a tool for learning and connection. Facilitators draw from current research to present evidence‑based guidelines, then open the floor for participants to share personal challenges, successes, and questions. The conversational format fosters a supportive community where families can learn from one another and develop individualized plans that fit their unique values and routines.
Evidence‑Based Resources Informing the Curriculum
The curriculum is anchored in reputable, research‑driven sources. The Screenagers Project offers documentary‑style insights into how screens affect adolescent brain development and behavior. The Anxious Generation examines links between excessive device use and rising anxiety levels among youth. Dopamine Kids explores the neurochemical pathways activated by interactive media and provides practical tips for moderating stimulation. Additionally, the series incorporates guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which recommend specific screen‑time limits, content quality standards, and the importance of co‑viewing and media mentorship for younger children.
Age Range and Accommodations for the Youngest Participants
The program welcomes children from birth through age 9, recognizing that technology exposure begins even in infancy. For infants who are not yet walking or are younger than 12 months, the format allows them to remain with a parent or caregiver throughout the session, ensuring safety and comfort while still permitting the adult to participate in the discussion component. This inclusive approach acknowledges the diverse developmental needs of families and provides flexibility for those caring for very young children while still benefiting from the program’s educational content.
Flexible Attendance and Registration Process
Families are encouraged to attend as many sessions as fit their schedules, with no requirement to participate in all four meetings. This flexible design respects varying commitments and allows participants to focus on the topics most relevant to their current concerns. Registration is simple and conducted online via the link https://waps.pub/ecfe_technology, where interested parties can select preferred dates and provide basic contact information. Early registration is recommended to secure a spot, as space may be limited due to room capacity and staffing considerations.
Contact Information and Further Assistance
For any inquiries—whether about program content, accessibility needs, or registration assistance—families should reach out to Lynnea Pfohl, the ECFE coordinator overseeing the series. She can be contacted by email at [email protected]. Ms. Pfohl is available to answer questions, provide additional resources, and help ensure that all interested families can access this valuable opportunity to cultivate healthier technology habits at home.