Monash Expert: Why play and technology must unite for children's literacy and wellbeing
Monash University
As the United Nations prepares to mark the International Day of Play on 11 June, early childhood experts are urging a shift in how we view children’s digital engagement. Far from being a passive distraction, thoughtfully designed media and emerging technologies can act as vital tools to enrich digital literacy, lower learning barriers and foster profound intergenerational connections.
Professor Lisa Kervin AM, a leading researcher from the School of Educational Psychology and Inclusion at Monash University, argues that integrating play with technology nurtures opportunities for connection, language, social skills and imaginative exploration.
Through initiatives like the Play for Wellbeing project, her work highlights how play encourages risk-taking and experimentation, helping children (and adults) internalise positive behaviours while bridging connection across generations. In her work as Investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child, her work shows how digital technologies can be used to transform opportunities for connection, play and learning through quality interactions.
Professor Kervin will join a panel of experts at ACMI on Wednesday 17 June for the Play School Talks: Children's Media and Technology as a Tool in Playful Parenting/Caring event, exploring how families and educators can guide children’s digital experiences with confidence and care.
Professor Lisa Kervin AM, School of Education, Culture and Society, Monash Education
Contact details: +61 3 9903 4840 or [email protected]
Read more from Professor Kervin on Monash Teachspace
The following quotes can be attributed to Professor Kervin:
“Play is the most natural way for children to make sense of their world, and in our increasingly digital society, technology must be a meaningful part of that landscape. Rather than viewing screens merely as a source of passive consumption, we need to recognise their immense potential to spark curiosity, creativity and critical thinking.
“When children engage in playful digital exploration, whether they are redesigning digital content or navigating interactive challenges, the traditional barriers to learning drop away. Play strengthens emotional engagement, which makes learning memorable and empowers children to become active creators of technology rather than just passive users.
“Our research through the Play for Wellbeing project emphasises that play is not solitary; it thrives on connection. Intergenerational play, supported by thoughtfully designed media, allows parents, carers and children to share rich learning experiences. It provides a safe space for adults to scaffold digital literacy, helping children learn how to evaluate online information and navigate digital environments safely.
“As we celebrate the International Day of Play, we must shift the conversation away from rigid screen-time limits and focus instead on the quality of the digital experience. By embracing a playful approach to parenting and early education, we can turn technology into a powerful vehicle for connection, collaboration and lifelong wellbeing.”
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