PEDAGOGICAL SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN AGED 6–7 IN THE PROCESS OF FAMILIARIZATION WITH ICT (INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES)

Abstract

The article reveals the role of pedagogical support in the process of integrating information and communication technologies into the educational environment of preschool institutions. In the context of the digitalization of society, the issue of effective use of ICT in working with preschool children is becoming increasingly relevant, as it is during this period that the foundations of intellectual, emotional, and social development of the individual are formed. The purpose of the study is to explore the essence, tasks, and implementation mechanisms of pedagogical support as an essential condition for the meaningful use of digital tools in developing the cognitive activity of children aged 6–7. The methodological basis includes scientific approaches to child development in an interactive educational environment, analysis of psychological and pedagogical literature, and observation of communication technologies practices in preschools.The article clarifies the concept of «pedagogical support» and describes its functions in the context of a child’s interaction with the digital environment. The scientific novelty of the study lies in defining the educator’s role as a mediator between the child and communication technologies, capable not only of providing technical guidance but also of developing intellectual, communicative, and creative skills through emotionally rich interaction. It is shown that only under conditions of purposeful pedagogical support do digital tools enhance cognitive activity, foster information culture, and promote the development of logical thinking and independence in preschoolers. A model of interaction – “child – educator – parents” – is proposed as a necessary condition for effective communication technologies implementation in early childhood education.The conclusions emphasize that the effectiveness of digital learning for preschoolers directly depends on the educator’s professional competence, the meaningful selection of digital content, and the creation of an emotionally safe developmental environment. It is substantiated that pedagogical support is a key factor in shaping information culture, stimulating cognitive activity, and developing the intellectual potential of older preschool children.