Vancouver Public Schools is providing remote learning at home for all students, which includes providing access to an iPad for learners in kindergarten through second grade.
Elementary schools are planning to check-out iPads for K-2 students:
April 13 and 14
- 9 a.m. – noon
- 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
During pickup:
Social distancing and safety protocols to keep all parties safe and healthy will be in place.
- When you come to pick up iPad(s), we ask that only one person per family comes to the school for pickup.
- iPads will be given out by the front door. Please follow the directions at the school for pickup.
- Have the name(s) of your child(ren) and their teacher(s) ready to provide to school staff at pickup.
- All parents/guardians must review and sign the Responsible Use Agreement form for important information about iPad use at home. We will have copies available to sign at the school. Please bring a signed copy if possible.
- A handout will be provided with basic information about the operation of the device and who to contact for technical support.
We know that most of our K-2 students have not used a district iPad. We want to share several ideas, resources and best practices for using an iPad for learning at home.
Here are our top five tips:
- Use the iPad with your child. Parents play an important role in helping students understand and talk about what they are doing on the iPad.
- Protect bedtime. Studies show that using digital media at night can interfere with sleep quality. Consider turning devices off at least 30 minutes before bed.
- Create a technology learning space and a technology-free zone. Consider setting a special place in your home for using technology where family members can monitor and be involved.
- Remember, digital learning is just one part of your child’s education. Encourage hands-on exploration, face-face interaction and multiple ways for your child to learn.
- Have ongoing conversations with your child about online citizenship and safety, including treating others with respect while online and offline.
We know too much screen time is a concern at any age. We find these recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics helpful for our younger students:
- For children ages 2 to 5, limit screen time to one hour per day of high-quality programming ideally with conversations with adults.
- For children ages 6 and up, establish consistent limits on the time spent using digital and online tools.
For more information on screen time and other useful resources, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics’ website. They include a Family Media Use Plan to help families set appropriate screen plans for their family. Another great resource is Common Sense Media, which has reviews on apps and other media that you may want to explore.
You will be receiving more guidance from your student’s school administration and teachers on how to use the iPad in the best ways to support your student’s learning.