Media Steps for Early learning

Now more than ever teachers, parents and students are looking for high-quality educational media to support learning. Follow MPT’s Media STEPs to guide you in using trusted media that inspires learning at home, in the classroom and beyond.

Select educationally sound content you can trust. The media you choose exposes kids to new language, behavior and information. Be sure that content supports your values.

Choose programs with characters that resolve conflict in a positive way.
Play games that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving.
Use media that teaches lessons to help kids be successful in school and at home.

Talk with kids about what they are seeing and hearing. Talking with kids out loud helps them process what they are learning and helps to build language skills.

Ask kids questions about why something happened or what they think will happen next.
Remind children about a time they had a similar experience. Did they get the same result?
Ask a child about their favorite character and why they like them.

Explore new ideas together. Media is a great springboard to spark curiosity. Take time to research, investigate and try something new.

Try new foods…look up a recipe and make it together.
Read books about an animal or place to learn more about it online, or at your local library.
Do an experiment. Try it a few times to see if you get the same results.

Play is the best way for young children to learn! Use media to inspire playful learning on screen and off so that kids have enough time away from screens to be hands-on, active and creative.

Dedicate time each day for kids to play away from screens, indoors and outside.
Provide recyclable materials that kids can use to design and build their own creations.
Encourage kids to retell a story from their favorite book or show by acting it out with costumes and props.