Using Digital Media to Promote Screen-Free Learning

When the new school year kicks off, many early childhood and elementary school teachers will be thinking about ways to build home–school partnerships. At the same time, families will be looking for ways to ease back into learning routines after the summer. To support both goals, we’ve curated a list of free, research-based media resources, including videos, apps, and podcasts that promote playful learning, spark off-screen exploration, and foster family communication. We’ve also included simple tips for how teachers can introduce these resources to families.

It’s no secret that screen time is increasingly competing with off-screen play for children’s attention. Parents often feel torn between their children’s pleas for screen time and their hopes for children to engage in real-world play and learning—but these don’t have to be opposing choices. There are digital resources intentionally created to get children off screens—to ask questions, try new things, and play and explore in the off-screen world. Teachers can play a pivotal role in helping families discover media that truly support learning and connection.

Why digital media?

If the goal is to get kids playing and learning off-screen, why get onscreen at all? Because the right kind of digital media can be a great catalyst for playful learning. Digital media can do the following:

• Hook children into learning by tapping into their natural motivation for screen time
• Provide parents and children with a shared focus as they watch or listen together, supplying rich material for back-and-forth conversation
• Offer a springboard for tricky conversations about complex topics like racism or family separation
• Model strategies for home learning in subject areas that families may feel less confident to support, such as math and science

By talking with families about the potential for learning through digital media, teachers can help them feel more at ease about children’s media use and get them engaged in learning opportunities at home.

Videos that inspire conversations and off-screen exploration

Research consistently shows that children learn more when they co-view and discuss videos with adult family members. That’s why the best videos for kids are ones that adults enjoy too! Here are a few recommendations:

• La Fuerza de Creer—This five-episode Spanish-language drama (with English subtitles) immerses families in a heartfelt story while highlighting family members exploring everyday science together. It showcases a variety of science-related careers and models strategies that families can use to “do” science alongside their children.
• PBS KIDS Talk About—This series features short clips of real families modeling simple, powerful conversations on topics such as dealing with difficult emotions, managing relationships, and handling life changes.
• Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum—Based on the Ordinary People Change the World books, this PBS Kids series introduces children to historical figures as children themselves, sparking curiosity about history and about how they, too, can overcome challenges and make a difference in the world today.

Apps that encourage ‘watch, then do’ learning

The following family-facing apps encourage family members to co-view a video, and then jump into active, playful learning activities:

• Work It Out Wombats! Family app (iPhone or Android)—This app blends videos from the PBS Kids series Work It Out Wombats! with simple instructions that guide families to engage in play while practicing problem-solving and computational thinking (e.g., breaking down big problems into smaller steps). The app prompts families to take photos of their problem-solving adventures and create a fun music video starring the child, supporting ongoing reciprocal conversation and reflection within families.
• PEEP Family Science apps—Available in English and Spanish, this app series encourages children and families to explore science concepts such as colors, ramps, shadows, and sounds. Animated videos from PEEP and the Big Wide World introduce these ideas, while caregiver videos build adults’ confidence in extending play and exploration off-screen.

Podcasts for screen-free learning and play

Podcasts are a great alternative to screens and can easily fit into families’ daily routines—whether on a car ride to school or during quiet time at home. Here are a few recommendations:

• Keyshawn Solves It, Molly of Denali—These serialized mystery stories follow relatable young characters as they solve everyday problems. Keyshawn Solves It explores themes like friendship, fairness, and perseverance through the eyes of an African-American boy. Molly of Denali highlights Alaska Native culture and models how to ask questions, evaluate information, and share ideas. Both podcasts invite families to listen closely, reflect, and play together.
• The Plate Show, Jamming on the Job—These episodic podcasts celebrate food, careers, and creativity. In The Plate Show, a magical talking spoon interviews chefs and kids around the world about food traditions and recipes—perfect for sparking kitchen adventures and conversations about culture. Jamming on the Job features original songs and skits that spotlight different jobs and introduce children to new career possibilities. Both podcasts prompt co-listening and playful learning for the whole family.

Tips for sharing media with families

Here are some tips for sharing media with families and helping them get the most out of it:

• Less is more. Share just a few recommended resources during a back-to-school event, or include a “Media of the Month” section on a monthly newsletter or other communication to families.
• Emphasize co-viewing. Encourage families to use media together. Let parents know that their presence—watching, listening, and talking together—helps their children learn more and supports the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Connect to classroom learning. Share media that ties to what students are exploring in the classroom. For example, studying light and shadows? Share the app PEEP Family Science: Shadows to help families connect learning between school and home.

Well-chosen media resources can be powerful tools to spark children’s learning at home, and teacher support can help families feel confident about using them. Over time, these small, intentional recommendations can strengthen home–school partnerships that are grounded in meaningful, playful, and shared learning experiences.