Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Dr. Wanda Lauer

Abstract

Background: The average child spends three times the recommended time on technology, which is leading to a wide range of consequences affecting education, such as fine motor, cognitive, and social deficits (Christensen, 2021; McGough, 2021; Qi et al., 2023). Parents and teachers play a crucial role in helping children be prepared for their education, yet many are not aware of the impacts of too much technology use (Srivastava, 2022). Developing strong foundational skills early in childhood is critical for setting the stage for long-term educational success. When skills are nurtured from a young age, children are better prepared to adapt to school routines, participate in learning, and build positive relationships with peers and teachers (Fitzpatrick et al., 2020; NICHD Early Child Care Research Network, 2007).

Purpose: The purpose of this scholarly project is to enhance children’s fine motor, cognitive, and social skills by reducing the amount of time they spend on technology through the use of alternative age-appropriate activities to increase readiness for kindergarten.

Methods: A literature review was completed utilizing online databases including EBSOHost, Pubmed, CINHAL, and Google Scholar. The ecology of human performance (EHP) model was used throughout the entire process of this scholarly project.

Conclusion: A strong start in kindergarten is essential for a child’s long-term success in school. However, many parents are not aware of the potential impacts that technology has on their children’s development. Unplug & Grow: Planting the Seeds for Kindergarten Success was created to improve children’s development and skills required for kindergarten, as well as give parents and teachers ideas on different hands-on activities for their children to engage in.

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