Back to school is officially here. Some schools in the U.S. started in late July but as we approach mid to late August, we’re seeing even more back-to-school pictures pop up. Common Sense Education is here for it. And so is TCEA! I wanted to share several new resource and articles offered by Common Sense Education that I think you’ll find useful for the beginning of this new school year. Let’s take a look!
Customizable Templates
Common Sense Education recently posted these helpful templates for educators and caregivers. They cover all grade levels and include digital citizenship agreements, dinner conversation starters, and family guides you can share with caregivers.
Roundup of Best Ed Tech Tools
Here’s Common Sense’s roundup of 46 back-to-school tools for supporting instruction with technology. These tools are categorized under the following topics:
- Social-emotional learning
- Curriculum and lesson planning
- Feedback, assessment, and porfolios
- Organization and productivity
- Parent and student communication
- Presentation and video
- Professional growth
Tips by Text
Common Sense Education is now offering families and caregivers a free text service in English and Spanish. Guardians can sign up to recieve tips for healthy technology use via text at no charge! Tips will include information on screen time management, choosing developmentally appropriate media and apps, setting boundaries, and recommendations for entertainment based on age. Share this information with your students’ families! And, as a bonus, here is an article with Four Tips on Managing Devices and Screen Time for Families you can share as well.
Additional Common Sense Education Articles
- Getting Back into School Mode Is Tough. Engaging Families Can Make It Easier
- Your Back-to-School Checklist
- Great Social and Emotional Learning Curricula and Programs
- SEL in Digital Life Resource Center
- What’s New with the Common Sense #DigCit Curriculum?
- 10 Great Free Websites for High School
- 10 Great Free Websites for Middle School
- YouTube Kids Channels with Diverse Representations
Have any resources you’d add to this list? Leave them in the comments for everyone to enjoy. And have a happy back to school!
