BUSINESS connections Fall 2025 3 1. Cognitive Development Interactive educational apps and games can strengthen early literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills. For example, children exposed to literacy apps have been shown to demonstrate improved letter recognition and phonemic awareness compared to non-users. High-quality educational media can also boost vocabulary and comprehension. 2. Social and Emotional Learning Those video calls to grandparents can be more important than you might realize. They support emotional development and allow children to build communication and empathy skills, even at a distance. A University of Washington study found toddlers as young as 24 months can learn social cues effectively through live video chat. 3. Creativity and Self-Expression Digital creativity tools—such as drawing programs, music apps, and storytelling resources—give children new ways to express themselves, develop divergent thinking, and explore their imaginations. These are key components of creative development during the preschool years. 4. Accessibility and Inclusion Technology provides adaptive tools that help children with developmental delays or disabilities participate fully in learning. Assistive technologies like text-to-speech, visual schedules, and interactive touchscreens have been shown to improve engagement and communication in children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental differences. 5. STEM Curiosity From a young age, interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields can be nurtured through a child’s exposure to coding toys, robotics kits, and digital science simulations.The National Association for the Education of Young Children notes that hands-on technology experiences can promote logical thinking, sequencing, and experimentations, which are foundation skills for later success in science and math. Rainbow is proud to provide the fiber Internet our service area needs to take advantage of technology to boost development in early childhood and beyond. On pages 4 and 5, you’ll find more on this topic in the Business Spotlight on Doniphan Darlings, a daycare center in Highland. 5 Ways Technology Enhances Early Childhood Development Apps and other tools can do so much more than just entertain Long before children enter their formal school years, technology can positively impact their development. Research shows toddlers and preschoolers experience important growth as a result of using technology, as long as it’s intentional, age-appropriate, and balanced. Here’s an overview of the key development areas:
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