Guide by GRADE

Unit I

Kindergarten & Grade 1

Our Technology Vision Overview

Children in early elementary grades are in a critical developmental period where hands-on play, movement, and face-to-face interactions build essential cognitive, social, and physical skills. The richest learning happens through physical play, books, art, nature exploration, and family quality time. When technology is used, the key is keeping it collaborative, supervised, and balanced. Seven Hills provides limited, purposeful technology use in the K-1 classrooms. Our approach emphasizes community learning and uses technology as one of many tools to support foundational skills. Faculty and staff model positive technology behaviors. Every family is unique, and we recognize that you know your child best. These guidelines are offered as research-based recommendations to help you make informed decisions that work for your family.

View our research resources.

AT SCHOOL

What Students Do:

Engage in shared viewing during instructional time. For example, teachers might project something on the screen for students to visualize what is happening in other areas of the world, practice creative movement, or see a visual timer.
Experience technology primarily as a group learning activity.
Create a community agreement for building positive digital environments.
Begin discussions regarding information and media literacy.

First Grade Specific:

Identify the basic components of the iPad (on/off button, volume, home button) and practice basic care (how to carry responsibly, how to charge).
Take MAP Assessments on iPads.

School Policies:

iPads remain at school — they do not go home with students.
Personal devices (iPads, phones, smartwatches, etc.) are not to be brought to school.
All technology use is supervised and purposeful.

AT HOME

Best Practices:

Technology should not replace active play, reading, or creative exploration.
Adult co-viewing and interaction are essential — children shouldn’t use technology alone.
Preview content before your child sees it to ensure it’s age-appropriate.
Choose long-form content (longer shows, documentaries) over short-form content (YouTube shorts, Instagram reels, etc.).
Use family devices only (your phone, a shared family iPad, or television); no personal devices for children.
Limit to one hour or less daily.