Dara runs a local cafe in Melbourne and use digital tools to balance business commitments with active parenting. He is impressed by the interactive nature of educational apps, which provide dynamic content beyond the static pages of textbooks. " One of the apps that I teach my son has animations. It better shows examples of how to solve problems and whatnot," he said. This interactive approach not only makes learning more engaging but also helps his children grasp complex concepts more effectively.

Dara appreciates how digital platforms motivate his children by celebrating their achievements. "It’s a lot more interactive because if they get the answers correctly, they'll shoot up balloons; that's great. And then they have fun," he said. This reward system makes learning a joyous activity, encouraging children to engage more deeply and enthusiastically with their lessons.

He is optimistic about the integration of technology in early childhood education. "Honestly, I think it's for me and my wife, we think it's more beneficial and I think it is a step in the right direction, a good thing that's happening, mainly because, like I said, you can teach more effectively, efficiently with the children as well," Dara said.

Sahar Iqbal, a Pakistani agriculturist who relocated to Melbourne two years ago, has her two children studying there.

Sahar noticed that after children started using laptop or iPad to study, their cognitive abilities changed even more.

 Sahar recounts an assignment involving modern influencers—a topic she was unfamiliar with. "Recently, I got an assignment from my peer and I have to discuss one of the influencers... So I asked my son for guidance," she said. Her eight-year-old son introduced her to the popular content creator MrBeast, helping her complete the assignment with flying colours.

"And that Mr. Beast video and the information that he has given me got me good grades in my assignment," Sahar proudly said.

However, when it comes to digital education. the outcome varies for children of different ages.

Sahar said, “I think it varies from child to child. I have noticed with my elder kid, a lot of changes. He has a more problem solving skills and social skills are improving.”

Her eight-year-old son uses the iPad for schoolwork at home without becoming addicted. "He’s not been glued to the screen, but yet still, I have seen him more progressive than me, he knows how to use Chat GPT to study. He has more critical thinking and research ability than me," Sahar said.

But Sahar's younger son, at five years old, struggles to manage his time on electronic devices, leading to excessive screen time that impacts his social activities. "His social skills have gone down the drain because he's more, addicted to the screen," she noted. This has prompted Sahar to limit his screen time, addressing the downside of easy access to digital devices.

Sahar Iqbal's insights allow us to see how digital learning tools can impact children's education and development, highlighting the importance of balanced and conscious integration of technology in children's lives.

Dr. Chris McCaw, lecturer in the University of Melbourne Education Faculty

While the advantages are significant, educational experts consistently emphasise the necessity of balanced screen time. Prolonged exposure to screens without proper breaks can lead to diminished attention spans and reduced physical activity, which can be detrimental to children’s health. To develop a well-rounded educational environment, digital resources should be used in conjunction with traditional teaching approaches rather than as replacements.

Dr. Chris McCaw, lecturer in the University of Melbourne Education Faculty, offers substance to this topic by providing research findings. "Our studies show that while digital tools facilitate learning, they also require new forms of literacy and self-regulation," he said.

To enhance educational gains and minimise negatives, they recommend mixing digital technologies with traditional learning techniques.

Digital tools make education more accessible and entertaining, but they also present obstacles that must be controlled to help students develop good learning habits.