Can I teach young children online after NTT?
Yes, in limited ways. NTT-trained teachers run online phonics, storytelling, rhymes and activity sessions, and some work for online learning platforms. Keep sessions short (20 to 30 minutes), highly interactive and parent-supported, and follow WHO guidance that young children's sedentary screen time should be limited.
What this means in practice
Young children learn best through hands-on play with people, so online sessions work best as a supplement, with parents joining in.
Good online formats
- Story and rhyme sessions with actions
- Phonics games using household objects
- Craft-along sessions with parents
- Parent coaching on play at home
Practical setup
A quiet background, good light, clear audio, a puppet or props, and materials list shared in advance. Keep group sizes small.
Keeping online sessions interactive
- Start with a name song
- Ask children to fetch objects from home
- Use a puppet to ask questions
- Include a movement break every few minutes
- End with a clear goodbye routine
Practical next steps
- Choose your format and age group.
- Pilot with a few families.
- Gather feedback.
What to keep in mind
WHO recommends no more than one hour a day of sedentary screen time for 2 to 4-year-olds, and less is better. Respect this in your session design.
Common follow-up questions
Is online teaching suitable for 3-year-olds?
Only in short, parent-supported sessions.
Do online platforms hire NTT teachers?
Some do; requirements vary.
Sources
- WHO guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for children under 5
- UNICEF: Learning through play
Course facts come from APTTI's published course pages. Examples use made-up names. How these answers are prepared.
