A Letchworth Garden City business recently received a festive boost in December from retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis. Hannah tweeted about her venture, Unplugged Tots, during #SmallBusinessSunday on December 17, catching Theo’s eye and securing a coveted retweet to his over 500,000 followers on Twitter and Instagram. This wasn’t just a lucky break; it was a well-deserved recognition of Unplugged Tots’ unique approach to tech education. Unplugged Tots is quietly championing screen-free tech education for young children.

Using screen-free activities to help teachers and parents teach skills to children means that the focus is on learning core pre-computer coding concepts (also known as computational thinking) through fun games and activities rather than learning about how to use the hardware. Pre-computer coding concepts (also known as computational thinking) involves things like problem solving, critical thinking, logic, algorithms, deconstruction, recognising patterns and more. The children learn through activities that involve craft, movement, music, play (and lots of fun.) As well as pre-computer coding skills, the activities introduce extra skills that will benefit the children; inclusivity, resilience, communication, collaboration and a growth mindset. The aim of this holistic approach is to not only ignite a love for learning in all children, but to spark an interest in the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) sectors as well as equipping our children with the crucial foundations for navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape. This fun and engaging approach resonates with teachers and parents alike, offering a much-needed alternative to tech-heavy early learning. With screens omnipresent in our lives and technology skills more in demand than ever, Hannah is aware of building a pipeline of talent and she’s keen to start them young!

Hannah expressed her delight at Theo’s support: “Having someone like Theo acknowledge the importance of unplugged tech education for young children is fantastic. It’s about more than just teaching our children to code,” Hannah emphasises. “I’m nurturing the confidence to tackle challenges, build resilience, fix problems, I’m helping them learn how to advocate for themselves and each other and communicate and collaborate effectively. Skills that will take them from the classroom to wherever they end up. Having Theo acknowledge the importance of this for every child is truly inspiring. As a busy working mum, Unplugged Tots is a side passion of mine and having the support from someone like Theo is fantastic. It means more people are aware of the importance of tech education for younger children and are aware of the crucial role we all play in shaping our children’s future prospects.”

Theo Paphitis’s retweet to his over 500,000 followers wasn’t just a momentary spotlight; it was an invitation to a thriving #SBS community. Unplugged Tots now stands alongside like-minded ventures on the official website, gaining valuable exposure and networking opportunities. Unplugged Tots are also invited to the annual #SBS events, a dynamic hub for knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Unplugged Tots now receives valuable exposure on the #SBS website, connects with like-minded entrepreneurs, and gains access to exclusive networking opportunities. This supportive network fuels their growth and amplifies their mission, ensuring that their impact reaches far beyond Letchworth. “We’re thrilled to welcome Unplugged Tots to the #SBS family,” shared Theo Paphitis. “It’s important to support our small businesses here in the UK. My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS re-tweet from me becomes part of a friendly club; like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings. The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish Unplugged Tots every success.”

Anyone looking for a re‐tweet from Theo should tweet on Twitter or do an Instagram post to him about their business on Sunday between 5 PM and 7.30 PM and include the hashtag #SBS. Six lucky businesses are re‐tweeted every Monday at 8 PM and then invited to enter their profile on the new website, attend the annual #SBS networking event and take advantage of the networking opportunities.

Armed with Theo’s boost and the vibrant #SBS community behind her, Unplugged Tots is poised to make a real difference in the educational landscape. Hannah’s mission to empower young minds through playful learning isn’t just about screens; it’s about nurturing the innate curiosity and learning spirit within. Remember the name Unplugged Tots, for sometimes, the most effective way to prepare for the digital future is to unplug, play, and rediscover the joy of learning through exploration and imagination.

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