Content That Inspires and Educates
Early childhood educators face a unique challenge: nurturing children’s development in a world where technology is ever present in everyday life. In Singapore, The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) and the Ministry of Health have set clear boundaries—no screens for infants below 18 months. And even after that, it’s recommended that children in preschool only use screens for educational purposes.
But while it’s true that excessive screen time can be harmful, it is equally important to introduce children to digital media and devices in developmentally appropriate ways. Thoughtful exposure helps children develop foundational digital literacy and prepares them to navigate the modern world with confidence and responsibility. Furthermore, when screen time is carefully managed, media can become a powerful educational tool.
Why Movies and TV Programmes Speak Louder Than Words
Children learn best when ideas are both seen and felt. Carefully selected content brings abstract values to life in ways that other mediums cannot. Here are just a few examples:
- “Finding Nemo” teaches resilience and courage.
- “Inside Out” helps children understand and talk about emotions.
- “Moana” inspires curiosity, bravery, and respect for heritage.
- “Kung Fu Panda” highlights the importance of self-belief and embracing one’s uniqueness.
By combining emotional storytelling and captivating imagery, movies can engage children deeply, sparking discussions, role-play, and reflection—exactly the type of interaction ECDA encourages.
Legally Safe. Globally Trusted.
The Motion Picture Licensing Company (MPLC) is the world’s leading provider of public performance licenses. With an MPLC Blanket Licence, your preschool can confidently and legally screen films and TV programmes for educational purposes. Because, while content may be crucial, it’s also protected by copyright law so if you show it without the proper permission, you can open your school up to potentially large legal fines.
But the single, affordable MPLC Blanket Licence covers content from over 2,300 rightsowners including Disney, DreamWorks, Paramount, Universal, MGM, and many more. With MPLC, you safeguard your school from copyright infringement while enriching your curriculum.
Benefits for Schools, Teachers, and Parents
- Policy-Aligned: Teachers can incorporate media in structured, interactive sessions that fit within ECDA guidelines (see sample lesson plan).
Differentiation: Stand out among preschools by offering “Movie Learning Moments” as part of your enrichment.
- Parent Assurance: Communicate that films are licensed, age-appropriate, and used only as guided learning tools.
- Educator Support: Simple discussion prompts and activities extend learning beyond the screen.
A Simple Way Forward
- Obtain your License with MPLC to unlock legal access to thousands of titles.
- Choose titles with values that match your lesson goals.
- Plan short sessions—under one hour—paired with play, questions, or activities.
- Guide interaction so films become springboards for interactive, not passive, entertainment.
Act Now
Parents and policymakers alike want assurance that screen use in preschools is both purposeful and beneficial. With MPLC, you can meet those expectations—legally, safely, and meaningfully. Transform screen time into teaching time by bringing the world’s most powerful stories into your classrooms today.