Bridging home and school
Engaging parents can be one of the most challenging parts of the journey. Their own experiences, plus negative media narratives about “screentime” and mobile phones, can create apprehension. The goal is not to convince them that technology is good for its own sake, but to help them understand how it supports children’s learning, removes barriers, and strengthens home–school links.
A highly effective approach is to invite parents in and give them a tour showing how, why and where technology is used. Parents can become powerful, positive advocates for your vision.
Key considerations
- Communicate the vision clearly — articulate the pedagogical “why”; move beyond a focus on devices.
- Define and address ‘screentime’ — focus on the quality of interaction, not duration; distinguish passive consumption from active creation. (Key advice.)
- Show, don’t just tell — use videos, newsletters or workshops to showcase student-created projects.
- Provide clear policies and guidance — communicate online safety, filtering and acceptable use policies.
- Support home–school links — share progress, homework and resources.
- Dignity and equality — in a 1:1 environment, no child stands out for needing assistive tools.
Simple ideas to move you forward
- Redefine “screentime” — run a workshop distinguishing passive vs active digital engagement.
- Open the doors — host a “Parental EdTech Study Tour” where pupils demonstrate their work.
- Enhance communication — adopt tools for sharing work and progress, including translation for EAL families.
- Develop a parent’s guide — a jargon-free guide or portal explaining your policies and how EdTech supports learning. (Canva template.)