How to Help Kids Stay Focused While Studying at Home in 2025

The differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today have become an essential topic for parents to understand. This shift in educational approach is more than just a name change. It directly affects how children learn in school. With the right understanding, parents can better support their children’s learning process at home. The 2013 curriculum has been used for over a decade. However, ongoing evaluations showed a need for a more flexible and student-centered approach. This led to the introduction of the Merdeka curriculum as a major refresh to the national education system. So, what are the real differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today? Below are nine key differences that parents need to know and how they impact children's education. 1. Curriculum Goals The 2013 curriculum aims to balance character, knowledge, and skills. In contrast, the Merdeka curriculum focuses more on developing each student's unique potential based on their interests and talents. This is one of the main differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today in terms of how educational goals are designed and delivered in the classroom. 2. Learning Structure In the 2013 curriculum, all learning content is determined centrally, leaving teachers with limited flexibility. The Merdeka curriculum gives schools more freedom to adapt the structure based on local context and student needs. This flexibility is one of the most appreciated differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today. 3. Learning Approach The 2013 curriculum uses a scientific approach that involves observation, questioning, data collection, analysis, and communication. Meanwhile, the Merdeka curriculum adopts a differentiated approach, allowing teachers to adjust teaching methods based on each student’s learning style and needs. 4. Lesson Content Another clear difference between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today is the amount of learning material. The Merdeka curriculum simplifies content so students aren’t overwhelmed. It focuses on mastering key concepts instead of covering a large volume of topics, allowing for deeper understanding. 5. Assessment Method The 2013 curriculum relies heavily on administrative and quantitative assessments, which many teachers find complex and time-consuming. On the other hand, the Merdeka curriculum promotes formative assessments that help track a student’s progress and improve the learning process. 6. Role of Teachers Teachers in the 2013 curriculum function mainly as content deliverers. In the Merdeka curriculum, they take on the role of facilitators, guiding students through their learning journey. This shift in teaching roles is another major difference between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today, reflecting a more student-centered learning experience. 7. Pancasila Student Profile Projects (P5) The 2013 curriculum didn’t include thematic projects. The Merdeka curriculum introduces P5 activities that help build student character through relevant themes like collaboration, creativity, and global diversity. This is one of the most visible differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today in daily school activities. 8. Flexibility in Time and Learning Activities The 2013 curriculum tends to have rigid and packed schedules. In contrast, the Merdeka curriculum allows schools to organize learning time more flexibly. Lessons can happen outside the classroom through experiments, discussions, or even community-based learning. 9. Readiness for the Future The Merdeka curriculum is designed to meet 21st-century demands. It emphasizes critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and digital literacy. One of the most forward-looking differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today is its focus on preparing students for technological and societal changes. The Role of Parents in the Merdeka Curriculum Era Parents are not just supporters but active partners in the Merdeka curriculum. Children need consistent support and involvement from home. One meaningful way to align with the spirit of this curriculum is by introducing your child to positive, skill-based activities like learning coding. Try a Free Coding Class at Timedoor Academy Timedoor Academy offers free trial coding classes specifically designed for kids based on their age and interests. These classes go beyond teaching technology. They help build logical thinking, creativity, and self-confidence. Each lesson is project-based, perfectly in line with the Merdeka curriculum. Kids will create games, animations, or basic apps while developing problem-solving skills and collaboration. With the support of experienced mentors, learning becomes fun, interactive, and meaningful. Let your child experience the joy of coding and build a stronger foundation for the future starting today.

In today’s digital age, social media is part of everyday life — even for children. Many kids have social media accounts before they even reach their teenage years, whether to play games, watch videos, or stay in touch with friends. But not all platforms are safe or appropriate. There are several social media platforms children should avoid due to the high risks they pose to their safety and psychological development. Why Should Children’s Access to Social Media Be Limited? Children are still in the process of developing cognitive and emotional maturity. They often don’t fully understand privacy boundaries, long-term consequences of online posts, or how to handle harmful digital interactions. Without proper supervision, children can be exposed to inappropriate content, online predators, cyberbullying, and even social media addiction. That’s why parents need to be aware of the social media platforms children should avoid, and replace them with safer, age-appropriate alternatives. List of Social Media Platforms Children Should Avoid Here are several platforms that are not recommended for children, especially without parental supervision: TikTok (without child restrictions)While TikTok offers “Family Pairing” and “Restricted Mode,” the reality is that explicit content, dangerous challenges, and toxic comments are still easily accessible. The platform’s algorithm quickly delivers viral content, some of which may not be suitable for kids. X (formerly Twitter)X is an open platform where anyone can post opinions and information, often without filters. Harmful content, hate speech, and misinformation are rampant. The DM (Direct Message) feature also allows strangers to contact users directly — a big risk for children. DiscordInitially created for gaming communities, Discord has expanded into all kinds of chat servers. Many are public and unmoderated, making it easy for children to encounter inappropriate language, adult content, or strangers with bad intentions. InstagramInstagram often pressures kids to focus on appearance, popularity, and curated lifestyles. Its comment and DM features can become avenues for cyberbullying or unhealthy social comparisons. FacebookThough no longer a favorite among younger users, Facebook is still widely used by adults. The platform exposes kids to hoaxes, extreme content in groups, and unwanted interactions, making it one of the social media platforms children should avoid. Recognizing which social media platforms children should avoid allows parents to take control of their child's digital environment and redirect their attention to safer spaces. Psychological and Social Risks Allowing children to use social media platforms children should avoid can lead to serious consequences. Children may experience low self-esteem from comparing themselves to others, feel pressure to maintain a certain online image, or face emotional distress from negative comments. Exposure to violent or sexual content can disrupt emotional growth and affect how children view relationships and self-worth. In the long run, it can lead to mental health issues and strained social development offline. How to Protect Children from Harmful Social Media Parents can take the following steps to protect children from risky digital exposure: Delay social media access until they are readyRespect the minimum age requirements of each platform. Make sure your child is mentally and emotionally ready before allowing them to join. Use parental control apps and settingsMany platforms offer tools that help monitor and limit what kids can access. Enable privacy and safety settings wherever possible. Check in on your child’s digital activity regularlyThis isn’t about spying but ensuring that your child’s online space is safe and healthy. Open up conversations about online content and friendshipsEncourage children to share what they see and experience online. Building trust is key to early problem detection. Introduce educational and kid-friendly platformsSafer alternatives like YouTube Kids or interactive learning platforms are better choices than social media platforms children should avoid. A Safer Digital Experience Starts with Awareness Understanding which social media platforms children should avoid is a crucial step in developing healthy digital habits. The online world can be fun and enriching — but only when children are equipped with the right tools, knowledge, and adult guidance. If you're looking for a way to introduce your child to the digital world safely and meaningfully, Timedoor Academy offers kid-friendly coding and digital literacy classes. You can also try a free trial class today and discover how digital learning can be both safe and fun from the start.

As we step into 2025, technology tools for elementary students are more important than ever. These tools enhance creativity, improve learning outcomes, and foster engagement both inside and outside the classroom. With the help of these technology tools for elementary students, children can develop essential skills that will serve them throughout their academic careers and beyond. Here’s a list of 10 essential technology tools for elementary students to boost their educational experience in 2025. Top 10 Technology Tools for Elementary Students in 2025 1. Kahoot! Focus: Interactive learning and quizzes Kahoot! remains one of the most popular technology tools for elementary students because it turns learning into a fun and competitive experience. Teachers and students can create customized quizzes on subjects like math, science, and language arts, fostering active participation. How to Use It: By incorporating Kahoot! in lessons, educators can make learning feel like a game. Students can play individually or in teams, which makes learning not only engaging but also interactive. With real-time feedback, teachers can adjust their lessons based on students' performance, ensuring that every child stays on track. 2. Seesaw Focus: Digital portfolio and communication Seesaw is another fantastic example of technology tools for elementary students that focuses on student documentation and communication. It allows students to create digital portfolios where they can showcase their work through photos, videos, and drawings. This tool strengthens the bond between teachers and parents, as they can track the progress of the students in real-time. How to Use It: With Seesaw, students can upload images of their assignments or record their thoughts on projects. Teachers can provide feedback and conduct virtual lessons or activities, keeping students and parents connected in an efficient, digital space. 3. Google Classroom Focus: Classroom management and assignment tracking Google Classroom is essential for managing assignments, tracking progress, and organizing classroom materials. As one of the top technology tools for elementary students, it helps both teachers and students streamline their work. Teachers can assign tasks, grade assignments, and provide real-time feedback, while students can easily access learning materials and submit work in one centralized platform. How to Use It: Teachers can post assignments and resources to Google Classroom, making it easy for students to stay organized. Additionally, it integrates with Google Drive, enabling students to collaborate on documents and presentations. This makes it easier to stay on top of deadlines and receive instant feedback. 4. Scratch Focus: Coding and creativity Scratch is one of the most popular technology tools for elementary students when it comes to learning programming. Through visual coding, students can create interactive stories, games, and animations, sparking creativity while teaching them important skills in computational thinking. How to Use It: Scratch is beginner-friendly and offers a drag-and-drop interface for students to build their own projects. Teachers can incorporate Scratch into STEM lessons, teaching logic, sequencing, and problem-solving through interactive coding challenges. This tool is a great starting point for young learners to get familiar with coding and digital creation. 5. Epic! Focus: Digital library for young readers For young readers, Epic! is an invaluable tool in the world of technology tools for elementary students. Epic! offers access to thousands of books, audiobooks, and educational videos. Its interactive features like read-aloud and quizzes make reading more engaging for children. How to Use It: Teachers can assign reading materials directly from Epic! to keep students engaged with books that suit their level. Students can explore a vast library of e-books or listen to audiobooks that cater to their individual reading preferences. Epic! fosters a love for reading by offering a fun and interactive approach to literature. 6. ClassDojo Focus: Classroom behavior and communication ClassDojo is one of the best technology tools for elementary students when it comes to fostering positive behavior and classroom culture. It allows teachers to reward students for good behavior, accomplishments, and teamwork. How to Use It: Teachers can assign points to students based on specific behaviors, such as being on task, helping others, or staying focused. These points can be exchanged for rewards like extra break time or special privileges. ClassDojo is an excellent tool for teaching students about responsibility and positive reinforcement. 7. TinkerCAD Focus: 3D design and engineeringFor students interested in design and engineering, TinkerCAD is one of the leading technology tools for elementary students. This user-friendly 3D design platform allows children to create their own digital models. How to Use It: Students can start by designing simple objects like keychains or toys and gradually work their way up to more complex 3D projects. Teachers can use TinkerCAD to introduce students to engineering and design concepts, making it easier for them to visualize their ideas and understand the basics of 3D modeling and printing. 8. Google Earth Focus: Geography and exploration Google Earth opens up the world to elementary students by allowing them to explore every corner of the globe. Whether for geography lessons or environmental studies, this tool is an essential part of technology tools for elementary students. How to Use It: Teachers can use Google Earth to give virtual tours of countries, cities, landmarks, and natural wonders. Students can explore geographical features and learn about different cultures and ecosystems. This immersive tool makes learning about the world fun and interactive. 9. Duolingo Focus: Language learning As one of the leading technology tools for elementary students, Duolingo helps young learners acquire new languages in a fun, gamified format. This app is perfect for introducing kids to a new language, including popular languages like Spanish, French, and German. How to Use It: Duolingo presents lessons in bite-sized segments that are both fun and educational. Students can practice daily and track their progress. This tool offers rewards and challenges, motivating students to keep learning new words and phrases while building language proficiency. 10. BrainPOP Focus: Educational videos and quizzes BrainPOP is a popular educational platform that offers animated videos and interactive quizzes. It covers a wide range of subjects, including science, math, and social studies, making it one of the best technology tools for elementary students to enhance their learning. How to Use It: Teachers can use BrainPOP to introduce new concepts in a fun and visual way. After watching the videos, students can complete quizzes and discuss the material in class. This helps reinforce key ideas and assess student understanding in an engaging, interactive manner. Why Technology Tools Matter for Elementary Students In 2025, technology tools for elementary students are not just an enhancement to traditional learning; they are essential to developing digital literacy and critical thinking skills. These tools help provide personalized learning experiences that adapt to the needs of each student, whether they need extra support or more challenging material. By incorporating technology tools for elementary students into the classroom, teachers can create an environment that promotes engagement, creativity, and collaboration, preparing students for future success in an increasingly digital world. Start Your Digital Learning Journey Today! Want to make learning even more engaging for your child? Explore Timedoor Academy and try free trial class today and discover how our digital learning platform can support your child’s educational growth with interactive lessons and expert-curated content.