Parent Resources for Student Technology Use
Welcome to our resource page, designed to help parents navigate the updated policy on student use of cell phones and personal electronic devices. Here, you’ll find practical tips, advice, and tools to support your child as they adjust to the new guidelines. We’re committed to working together to ensure that this transition is smooth and beneficial for all students, fostering a more focused and connected school environment.
Now that we have a few months of D51’s Student Cell Phone Use Policy rollout under our belts, we’d like to give some updates and support resources for our families.
It only took a few days for several principals to notice a positive shift in student interactions, with more laughter and face-to-face connections now that cellphones are out of the picture. While some students initially feld a bit anxious without their phones and there were a few logistical adjustments, the days have ended on a high note. Students were certainly excited to be reunited with their phones, many of them eagerly calling their parents to check in as soon as they had their devices back.
As we begin to see the positive impact on this updated policy, we want to offer our families some helpful tips and strategics to support their students in adjusting to the changes in daily smartphone access.
- Family Conversations: Engage in open discussions with your children about how the change in cellphone access is affecting everyone. Share your own experiences and listen to theirs. Emphasize how the policy aims to reduce distractions and encourage face-to-face interactions, and explain why it might be beneficial for them.
- Emergency Contacts: Help your children compile a list of important contact information, such as family members, close friends, and emergency numbers. Ensure they have this list with them, either in a physical form or stored in a secure place that they can easily access, and remind them they can use the school phones to make important calls.
- Enhanced Communication: Consider using a paper calendar to keep track of daily activities and appointments. This can help both you and your children stay organized and ensure that important details are communicated effectively.
- Reduce Digital Distractions: Minimize texting and calling your child during school hours. Show your children that you are supporting the policy by adjusting your own habits, which can make it easier for them to follow suit.
- Addressing Anxiety: Reassure your child that their teachers have their own phones and are equipped to handle emergencies and contact parents if needed.
These strategies can help ease the transition and support your children as they adjust to the new policy.
Practicing "More Social, Less Media"
Follow along each month as our Student Services Department shares tips, tricks, and challenges to help students and families live out our “More Social, Less Media” motto in daily life.