Here are the key steps for getting iPads ready for use by our 2017 Year 4 students:
- Make sure your child has his or her own Apple ID. The best way to do this is to use your own Mac or IOS device and to set up Family Sharing within the iCloud settings. Key advantages of this include that you can share apps – so you only have to purchase them once for use by the whole family. For example, for my child #2 this year, I had a very low cost (under $5) for apps. The other key advantage is that you have to approve any app downloads your child requests.
- Make sure the child’s device has his or her own Apple ID on it within settings, App Store etc.
- Install iTunesU on the child’s device and subscribe to this course.
- Within Family Sharing on the adult device – turn off ‘ask permission’ next to your child’s Apple ID.
- Using the iTunesU course from above – go to posts and ‘Required Apps’. Go into ‘All Devices Need These Apps’ adn install all. Note that all the Apple Apps should already be free if you have a new device.
- Go to Yr 4 apps and install.
- Consider installing ‘Optional Creativity apps’.
- Set up the restrictions on your child’s device – within settings.
- Discuss with your child some clear guidelines for use. Don’t allow a passcode for the beginning of this year. If you do – make sure you attach this to the fridge and forbid your child from changing it on a whim. Also, subscribe to this course and browse through the “Guidelines for the House” section which includes an agreement/contract for you and your child to discuss.
- Do not allow iMessage.
- On your own device – turn back on ‘Ask permission’ next to your child’s name within Family Sharing.
Further recommendations:
Set up charging in a central family area
Clean up camera roll of any unnecessary photos and video before returning to school.
Be ultra firm regarding the use of the device – setting up strict expectations now will set the scene for the way you continue.