Wake the kids and tell them to grab their backpacks: it’s time to go back to school. This can be a stressful time for kids and parents, but a little preparation goes a long way. In this article I’ll highlight some ways technology can ease the transition from summer.
Go Social
When I was in school, we sat in front of the television, fingers crossed, praying for a closing announcement. Today, many school districts share this information via the web and social media. Get yourself in the loop this school year and visit your district’s website to find the following information:Your school and/or district’s Twitter feed
Any associated Facebook accounts
Classroom-specific websites
Classroom Blackboard accounts and mobile applications
Teacher blogs
Of course, some schools will embrace social technology more completely than others. Colleges and universities seem to be the most aggressive, but even elementary schools are using the technologies available to them.
Shared Electronic Calendars
Online calendars like Google Calendar or iCal allow everyone to put important things on the same calendar. This includes everything from testing schedules, to cheer and football practice, to Student Council meetings and project due dates. This can help keep everyone on the same page and know who needs to be where and when.
Apps, Apps, and More Apps
Apps are quickly becoming integral to the way our world works, and parents preventing their children from utilizing them may be making life a little more difficult than it has to be. Here are some cool apps to keep kiddos more organized for school:
MyHomework - helps track assignments, due dates, grades, GPA and plan your schedule in a format that syncs to computer calendars
inClass – digital note-taking including video, audio and photo notes
Simplemind – mind mapping app to help get creative juices flowing
Quizlet – Digital flashcards for any subject
Study Buddy – improve study habits by keeping track of study time versus distraction time, get efficiency reports, and timers and reminders to help maintain focus
DuoLingo – fun and effective ways to learn foreign languages, it includes conversational and written formats
Here’s hoping you have a successful school year. There’s more to do to get ready, of course, but these technology tips are a good place to start.
Neatly,
Jennifer Snyder, Certified Professional Organizer
Neat as a Pin Organizing Experts
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