Establish Routines
Create a consistent weekday schedule for your student to follow for school work, chores, and activities. This could include: wake up time, school hours, free time, meal times, bed time, etc. Creating and using a checklist is an easy way for students and families to visualize and complete daily tasks.
Create a Learning Enviroment
Identify a consistent, dedicated workspace that allows you to store learning materials, devices and supplies. Establish ground rules for using that space. For example, when and how to access the device in the learning space.
Learn the Technology
Become familiar with with the technology products and systems that you and your student will access and use. Technologies such Canvas, Skyward, Clever and ParentSquare are used in Canyon School District to support student learning and achievement. They also provide ways to ensure families can connect and communicate with teachers and schools.
Monitor Screen Time
Pay attention to, observe, and/or check in on the amount of minutes your student spends on a device, website, and/or program. Instead of focusing on the amount of minutes your students is spending on a device, think about the tasks they are accomplishing with that screen time. For more information and guidance review CSD’s screen time recommendations.
Communicate with Teachers
Communicating with your student’s teacher is an important step in staying involved with your student’s education. When you have questions and concerns, know the available methods to reach out. In addition to face to face communication, there are electronic means such as email, Canvas, and ParentSquare.
Support a Balanced Life
Talk to your student about balance and the value of their digital media use. Help your student balance technology with non-technology activities. Collaborate as a family to develop a Family Media Agreement tailored to each students. Ensure sleep is not being affected by technology use. For more information and guidance review CSD’s screen time recommendations.
Stay in the Know
Stay informed about the learning opportunities available to you as a parent/guardian in Canyons School District. Available resources to help you keep your student safe and responsible when using technology include: How to Monitor Technology Use, Digital Citizenship Curriculum, and Canyoneering Nights.
Reading Resources for Families
Parents play a large role in teaming with schools to support the learning of reading skills with their student in the home environment. This resource, Reading Resources for Families, provides several options for you to support literacy at home with your elementary reader.
Take Care of Yourself
You are an important part of your student’s life and learning journey. Make sure to not forget to include some self-care. Develop a work-life balance. Find ways to have meaningful conversations with those around you (inside and outside the home). Develop a personal plan that focuses on maintaining your physical and mental well-being.
