2025 Beginning Books Embracing Technology: Books About the Digital World

As children grow up in an increasingly digital age, it’s important to introduce them to the tools and concepts that will shape their futures, from understanding how the internet works to learning the basics of cybersecurity and digital safety. Books can play a crucial role in guiding children toward a healthy relationship with technology, helping them navigate the online world safely while fostering curiosity about digital innovation.

In this blog, we’ll explore a collection of books that introduce children to the digital world. These stories not only inspire an interest in technology but also teach valuable lessons about responsible and safe usage.

Why Teaching Kids About the Digital World Is Important

Today’s children are digital natives, growing up surrounded by technology. As such, understanding the digital world isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. By learning about concepts like coding, internet safety, and the basics of how digital tools work, children are better equipped to make smart decisions and stay safe online. Introducing these topics through engaging stories can spark curiosity and make learning about technology fun.

Recommended Books About Technology and the Digital World

1. “Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding” by Linda Liukas
   Age: 5-8
   This imaginative book introduces children to the concept of coding through the adventures of Ruby, a curious little girl. Through storytelling and fun challenges, kids learn how coding is like solving a puzzle. It’s a great way to introduce younger children to the world of programming and computational thinking.
2. “Webster’s Email” by Hannah Whaley
   Age: 3-6
   This colourful picture book tells the story of a young spider named Webster, who sends an email without fully understanding the consequences. It’s a fun way to introduce children to the basics of email communication while emphasizing the importance of thinking before sending messages online.
3. “The Missing Code: An Unofficial Minecraft Mystery” by Chris Barton
   Age: 8-12
   For kids who love Minecraft, this book delves into the digital world of coding and problem-solving. It introduces the idea that behind every game, there’s a world of coding and technology that powers it. Through an engaging mystery, kids learn about algorithms, logic, and digital puzzles.
4. “Chicken Clicking” by Jeanne Willis
   Age: 4-7
   This story follows a curious chick who gets into some online trouble by clicking too much! It’s a playful yet effective introduction to online safety, teaching children about the dangers of sharing personal information and the importance of safe internet practices.
5. “The Internet is Like a Puddle” by Shona Innes
   Age: 4-7
   Using simple and clear language, this book explains the vastness and dangers of the internet. It compares the internet to a puddle—shallow on the surface but with hidden depths underneath. This metaphorical approach helps children understand why they need to tread carefully online.
6. “If You Give a Mouse an iPhone” by Ann Droyd
   Age: 4-8
   This humorous story is a modern twist on the classic If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. It showcases what happens when a mouse becomes too distracted by an iPhone, gently poking fun at our reliance on technology. It’s a great starting point to discuss the importance of balancing screen time with real-world activities.
7. “Cyberhero Adventures: Defenders of the Digital Universe” by Alan Neibauer
   Age: 8-12
   This graphic novel introduces kids to the world of cybersecurity through a group of superheroes protecting the digital universe. It’s a creative way to teach children about online threats like hacking and identity theft while encouraging them to be responsible digital citizens.
8. “Dot.” by Randi Zuckerberg
   Age: 4-7
   Dot is a tech-savvy little girl who loves using her gadgets for everything but soon realizes there’s a whole world outside of screens. This book offers a gentle reminder about the importance of balance between technology use and outdoor play, making it perfect for kids who love their devices.
9. “How to Code a Sandcastle” by Josh Funk
   Age: 5-8
   This fun story introduces kids to basic coding concepts through the character Pearl, who wants to build the perfect sandcastle. With the help of her robot, she uses coding logic to solve problems along the way, making it a great introduction to computer science.
10. “Stella and the Wishing Star” by Ted Dewan
    Age: 5-8
    In this futuristic story, Stella finds herself in a world where technology controls everything, from her toys to her friends. Through her journey, she learns valuable lessons about managing technology and the importance of balancing tech with real-life interaction.

Five Activities to Teach Kids About Digital Safety and Technology

1. Create a Family Tech Agreement
   Sit down with your child and create a set of digital safety rules for the household. This could include limits on screen time, guidelines for online sharing, and how to stay safe on the internet.
2. Coding for Beginners
   Use a kid-friendly platform like Scratch or Code.org to introduce your child to the basics of coding. You can set small challenges, such as creating a simple game or animation, which helps develop problem-solving skills.
3. Digital Storytelling
   Encourage your child to write and illustrate their own digital story using an app or computer program. This introduces them to digital tools while fostering creativity.
4. Password Strength Challenge
   Teach your child about the importance of strong passwords by letting them create their own “super secure” passwords. Then, discuss why certain passwords are stronger than others.
5. Cybersecurity Scavenger Hunt
   Set up a scavenger hunt where your child learns about different cybersecurity terms (like firewall, encryption, etc.) and finds clues that teach them about staying safe online.

Conclusion

As children become increasingly immersed in the digital world, they must understand both the opportunities and the risks that come with technology. Through engaging stories like Hello Ruby and Chicken Clicking, kids can explore coding, internet safety, and responsible digital behaviour in a fun and approachable way.

Books about the digital world empower children to not only embrace technology but also use it wisely and safely. By fostering an early interest in STEM topics and teaching them about online safety, we help prepare the next generation to navigate a future filled with exciting digital possibilities.