Screen-Free by Design

Early childhood is a once-in-a-lifetime window for how the brain develops. The research is increasingly clear: heavy screen use during the preschool and kindergarten years undermines focus, learning, and healthy social development.

That’s why our classrooms are intentionally screen-free.

Screens Interfere With How Young Children Learn

Studies consistently show that young children learn to read, write, and understand math more deeply through physical materials, handwriting, and face-to-face instruction than through screens. Writing by hand activates areas of the brain responsible for memory, comprehension, and critical thinking in ways typing and tapping do not. Hands-on math and language materials build understanding that screens simply cannot replicate.

Compared to paper-based learning, screen-based instruction is linked to:

• Lower reading comprehension and weaker retention
• More shallow processing of information
• Increased distraction and reduced attention spans

Screens Undermine Focus, Social Skills, and Self-Regulation

Young children are still developing the ability to:

• Focus for sustained periods
• Read social cues
  Manage frustration
• Engage in meaningful peer interaction

Classroom screens compete directly with these skills. Research links increased screen exposure in young children to higher rates of inattention, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and reduced social engagement. Even so-called “educational” apps often isolate children and replace conversation, collaboration, and imaginative play.

Attention is not automatic. It must be protected and practiced.

Decades of educational research show that teacher-led, relationship-based instruction outperforms technology-driven learning—especially in early literacy and math.

At this age, no device can replace:

• One-on-one instruction
• Spoken language and dialogue
• Observation, correction, and encouragement
• Human connection 

What About Technology Skills?

Technology is a tool — not a foundation.

The technology landscape is changing rapidly. With the rise of AI and increasingly intuitive digital tools, fewer technical skills are required each year. What a child learns today about specific devices or software will likely be outdated long before they reach adulthood.

What machines cannot replace is a child’s ability to think deeply, feel empathy, connect with others, and make meaning of the world.  Children who build strong foundations in literacy, math, focus, self-regulation, and human connection are better prepared to learn technology later — and to use it thoughtfully and responsibly.

Early exposure to devices does not prepare children for the future.  Strong human foundations do.

Our Commitment

We offer children a learning environment that protects their developing minds and honors their humanity first.