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As Artificial Intelligence becomes more accessible, many aspects of our lives will change. We can look forward to a future where computers can diagnose our illnesses in seconds, and new clothes and products are created instantly based on trends. Those working in retail, banking, and marketing are already experiencing the effects of AI in their respective industries. We can expect to see more of these developments since AI and other technology, such as virtual reality, are on the cusp of transforming other industries, including childcare.
Daycares have been a part of our lives for decades, and while specific systems that have been in place for many years still work to this day, virtual reality can improve them in such a way as to make daycare more fun for our children. Moreover, AI may also improve daycare workers’ jobs since we expect it to take over specific tasks, allowing workers to focus on giving quality care to children. Here is how virtual reality and AI are shaping the future of daycare.
Enhances Learning
Daycare workers know that teaching young children can be a challenge. Toddlers and preschoolers have short attention spans, and they can be easily distracted, no matter how riveting the subject is. However, virtual reality can improve engagement by creating interactive learning experiences with moving pictures or video games. Since the scenes or games look real, VR will help pique a child’s attention and enable them to focus.
VR games are beneficial when used to teach basic concepts such as the alphabet or simple math. Since these games require a child’s full participation, they will learn new things every time they play. Moreover, if the games are challenging enough, they will be motivated to learn even more.
Enables Daycare Centers to Share Best Practices
Every daycare center has their own rules and ways to run their business. However, sharing best practices can be beneficial, particularly if a daycare center is starting. For instance, those operating a daycare franchise may use VR to see how other centers within the same franchise organize and decorate their daycare, train staff, and implement cleanliness and security measures. Sharing best practices ensures uniformity and consistency, and it also ensures that kids will get the same quality of care in all of the daycare franchises.
Promotes Communication
Millions of businesses are already using Artificial Intelligence to respond to questions from their customers. Daycare centers can use the same technology since the availability of AI on websites or social media pages that can respond to frequently asked questions.
In addition, Artificial Intelligence can send parents reminders for daycare events, such as bake sales or parent-teacher meetings. This automated message system enhances communication and gives busy parents the support they need. Also, using Artificial Intelligence messaging frees up staff time and prevents forgetting to send the message to the parents promptly.
Improves Security
Safety is a primary concern for many parents of children who go to daycare. This parental necessity is why some childcare facilities have installed cameras in their rooms so that parents can remotely monitor their children while they are at work.
However, incorporating Artificial Intelligence in daycare facilities may help to improve security even more since it can alert authorities when discovering if threats are within the area. It may even block access to people not authorized to enter the facility and send a call for help signal to law enforcement officials if daycare workers need help or are unable to. Most daycares secure entry to every room and install room cameras.
Safety for All
Although daycare workers make it a point to ensure the safety of everyone in the facility, they cannot predict when accidents will happen, especially if they are busy looking after children. AI can help enhance safety by alerting staff to potential hazards, such as spilled water on the floor, a malfunctioning door lock, and so much more. Fire prevention may be an option with an AI-based sprinkler system in daycare facilities to prevent injuries, damage, and loss of life.
Modern technology can transform childcare facilities and make them safer, better, and more efficient. As virtual reality and Artificial Intelligence are becoming more accessible, it is likely that we will see more of these tech developments in daycare centers in the coming years.
Sandra Chiu works as Director at LadyBug & Friends Daycare and Preschool.
