YouTube channels to use with elementary students to teach technology skills

With technology skills being a requirement for many jobs, it’s essential that we teach our children these skills at a young age. One way to do this is by utilizing YouTube as a teaching tool. There are countless YouTube channels out there that offer engaging and educational content on a variety of technology-related topics. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best YouTube channels for teaching technology skills to elementary students.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can YouTube be used safely as an educational tool for elementary students?

Yes, YouTube can be a safe and effective teaching tool when used properly. It’s important to review the content of any videos before sharing them with your students. Monitor students as they use the platform as well, to ensure they’re not exposed to inappropriate content. Take a look at our post on The Benefits of Using Video in the Elementary Classroom and How to Do it Easily for some tips.

Are these YouTube channels free to use?

Yes, all of the channels we’ve highlighted in this article offer free content for users.

Do I need any special equipment or software to use these YouTube channels in my classroom?

Most of the channels we’ve highlighted in this article only require an internet connection and a device to access YouTube, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Some channels may recommend specific software or hardware, but these are usually optional.

How can I ensure that my students are engaged and learning from these YouTube channels?

To ensure your students are engaged and learning from these channels, it’s important to incorporate the videos into a structured lesson plan. Use the videos to introduce topics and concepts, and then follow up with hands-on activities or discussions to reinforce key ideas. Additionally, you can use tools like quizzes or assignments to assess student understanding and ensure they’re getting the most out of the material.

Introduction: The Importance of Technology Skills for Elementary Students

In today’s digital age, technology skills are essential for success in almost any field. And it’s never too early to start learning these skills. Elementary school is the perfect time to introduce children to the basics of coding, programming, and robotics. Not only do technology skills prepare children for their future careers, but they also help them develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and creativity. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best YouTube channels for teaching technology skills to elementary students.

Why Teach Technology Skills to Elementary Students?

There are many reasons why it’s important to teach technology skills to elementary students. First, technology is rapidly advancing, and it’s important for students to keep up with the latest trends and tools. In addition, technology skills are in high demand in the job market, and children who learn these skills early will have a better chance of success in their future careers. Technology skills are moreover essential for problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity, which are important skills for success in any field.

YouTube Channels for Coding and Programming

Coding and programming are essential skills for anyone interested in technology. Here are some of the best YouTube channels for teaching these skills to elementary students.

Scratch

Scratch is a visual programming language that is designed specifically for children. It’s easy to learn and can be used to create games, animations, and interactive stories. The Scratch YouTube channel offers a wealth of resources, including tutorials and project ideas.

Khan Academy Code

Khan Academy is a non-profit organization that offers free educational resources. Their Computing channel offers tutorials on a variety of programming languages, including JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and SQL.

Code.org

Code.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to expanding access to computer science. Their YouTube channel offers tutorials on programming concepts and features famous guests such as Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg.

YouTube Channels for Learning about Computers and Software

In addition to coding and programming, it’s important for students to learn about computers and software. Here are some YouTube channels that offer great resources for teaching these skills.

TeachUComp

TeachUComp offers tutorials on a variety of software applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. These tutorials are easy to follow and are perfect for beginners.

Google for Education

Google for Education offers a variety of resources for teachers and students. Their YouTube channel offers tutorials on tools such as Google Drive, Google Classroom, and Google Apps.

Microsoft Education

Microsoft Education offers a variety of resources for teachers and students, including tutorials on Office 365, Minecraft, and Windows 10.

YouTube Channels for Robotics and Electronics

Robotics and electronics are becoming increasingly important skills in today’s job market. Here are some YouTube channels that offer great resources for teaching these skills to elementary students.

Teach Kids Robotics

Teach Kids Robotics is aimed at teaching kids robotics using visuals in an easy to understand manner. In addition to learning material, their website offers curated lists of robotics stem kits to continue learning at home!

Adafruit Industries

Adafruit Industries offers tutorials on electronics and DIY projects. Their YouTube channel features videos on topics such as Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and Circuit Playground.

The STEM Laboratory

The STEM Laboratory offers tutorials and project ideas for a variety of STEM-based activities, including robotics and electronics. Their YouTube channel features videos on topics such as building a robot hand and creating a simple circuit.

YouTube Channels for Digital Citizenship and Online Safety

In the world of technology, it’s important to teach students digital citizenship and online safety. These YouTube channels offer educational videos that can help elementary students learn about internet safety and how to be responsible digital citizens.

Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization that provides education and advocacy for kids, families, and schools. Their YouTube videos focus on a variety of digital citizenship topics, including cyberbullying, online privacy, and responsible use of social media.

NetSmartz Workshop

NetSmartz Workshop is an interactive, educational program for children ages 5-17. Their YouTube channel has a series of videos that teach kids about internet safety, including how to protect their personal information, how to be safe on social media, and how to identify and avoid online predators.

StaySafeOnline

StaySafeOnline is a website dedicated to educating people on internet safety and security. Their YouTube channel offers educational videos on topics such as cyberbullying, identity theft, and online privacy.

YouTube Channels for Graphic Design and Video Editing

Equally, graphic design and video editing are important skills for students to learn in today’s digital age. These YouTube channels offer fun and engaging ways for elementary students to learn about graphic design and video editing.

Adobe Creative Cloud

The Adobe Creative Cloud YouTube channel offers a variety of tutorials on graphic design and video editing using Adobe software. From creating logos to editing videos, elementary students can learn how to use Adobe tools to express their creativity.

TinkerCAD

TinkerCAD is a free, easy-to-use app for 3D design, electronics, and coding. Their YouTube channel offers tutorials on how to use the app to create 3D objects and designs. Elementary students can learn how to design and print their own 3D objects using TinkerCAD.

WeVideo

WeVideo is a cloud-based video editing platform that allows users to create and edit videos from anywhere with an internet connection. Their YouTube channel offers tutorials on video editing basics, such as adding music, text, and transitions, as well as advanced techniques like green screen editing.

YouTube Channels for STEM Education and Science Experiments

Finally, STEM education and science experiments are also important for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in elementary students. These YouTube channels offer fun and educational videos that focus on STEM education and science experiments.

Science Max

Science Max is a YouTube channel that offers hands-on science experiments that can be done at home. From building a rocket to making a lava lamp, elementary students can learn about science through fun and engaging experiments.

NASA

The NASA YouTube channel offers videos on a variety of topics, including space exploration, technology, and science education. Elementary students can learn about the latest discoveries and missions in space exploration.

Crash Course Kids

Crash Course Kids is a YouTube channel that offers educational videos on a variety of topics, including science, engineering, and technology. Their videos are designed to be fun and engaging, making learning about STEM topics easy and enjoyable.

Conclusion: Incorporating YouTube into Elementary Technology Education

All in all, the videos offered on these YouTube channels can help students learn about digital citizenship and online safety, graphic design and video editing, and STEM education and science experiments.

The Benefits of Using YouTube for Technology Education

YouTube offers a variety of educational videos that can help students learn about technology in a fun and engaging way. The videos are easily accessible and can be watched anywhere with an internet connection. By incorporating YouTube into their technology education, elementary students can develop important skills that will prepare them for success in the digital age.

Overall, YouTube can be a valuable tool for teaching technology skills to elementary students. From coding to graphic design to online safety, there are countless resources available on the platform. By incorporating these channels into your technology education, you can help your students develop the skills they need to succeed in the digital world. So don’t be afraid to embrace YouTube as a teaching tool and explore some of the channels we’ve highlighted in this article. Your students will thank you for it!