iPads @ Elkanah
Parent iPad Toolkit
Helping our children to use their iPads responsibly
Parents often need guidance managing this process. To assist you we have compiled a list of resources for you to read and consult.
Tips for helping you manage your child's device at home
- Read ALL iPad-related communication from the school. This is vital for the success of the school/parent relationship.
- Monitor the types of games you allow your children to play. Do you want them playing games at all? Are the games age-appropriate? Do you want your children playing online games? If you allow games, we recommend that you limit the number of games to a maximum of 6.
- Children love communicating online, but it is for you to decide whether or not to allow iMessage, FaceTime etc. Monitor their conversations and lay the ground rules for this communication. It is a good idea to make sure their profile images are appropriate too.
- Take note of age restrictions for social media platforms and games. Adhere to these, as they are put in place for the protection of our children. A Parent Guide to these age restrictions is available on the Digital Learning Blog.
- Limit screen time - taking into account that the iPad might be required for a homework task, set the boundaries and put consequences in place if they are not adhered to. Stick to those boundaries. Don't use the iPad as a babysitter.
- Monitor home access to the internet. Make sure you know what your children are doing online. Internet access at school is protected - how safe is your home internet?
- Determine guidelines for when and where the iPad may be used - only in a common area of your home, not in the bedroom (if there is internet access there) etc.
- You are the parent - your rules apply at home.
Your Child and the Internet
- Be aware of where your child may access the internet - at school, at home, at a friend's house etc. Internet filtering might not be in place or not be strictly monitored.
- Talk to your child about what to do if they are exposed to inappropriate content. If they are uncomfortable about anything they should feel free to speak to an adult they trust - a parent or a teacher - about how they are feeling. Encourage them to speak up about such incidents.
- Ensure that your own home internet is protected and that you have set restrictions on your child's iPad.
- Don't give your child 3G access unless necessary - remove the SIM card from 3G devices, especially for school.
- Be aware that over-policing is also not healthy and could be conducive to rebellious behaviour. Create an environment of open discussion where your child is free to ask questions.
- Children are naturally curious, but they need parental guidance as to what is appropriate and what is not.
Useful Parent Resources
Important Information for Teens, Teachers and Parents
Common Sense Media
Netsmartz
Home Web Filtering
http://www.opendns.com/home-internet-security/parental-controls/opendns-home-vip/
Parental Controls on the iPad
In addition to the Restrictions 'How To' already sent to our parents, the Apple website provides information about setting up restrictions on your child's iPad.
Cyberbullying
Digital Passport
These modules cover:
- Communication
- Privacy
- Searching on the Internet
- Cyberbullying and
- Copyright
This is important knowledge for our pupils and it is supported with parent material for each module. This will be made available to you as your child progresses through the modules.
While we will begin with the activities in during the IT lessons this term, you have the option of buying the Digital Passport App (R43.99) optional.
Thank you
Elkanah House Senior Primary
Email: karens@elkanah.co.za
Website: http://tinyurl.com/ipadselkanah
Phone: 021 554 8657