Digital Literacy

Digital Lives Matter at the Town School Library

In the Fall of 2012, the Town School Library built out a K - 8 Digital Literacy Curriculum, initially adapted from Common Sense Media, in order to help students navigate their digital lives.

Since then, Town has been approved as a Common Sense School for six years running, an honor that recognizes our efforts in teaching digital citizenship to young people and engaging the entire school community in this important discussion. Julie Alonso and Kim Stuart, Town School Librarians, have also been recognized as Common Sense Educators. These acknowledgements demonstrate our school's commitment to creating a culture of digital learning and citizenship.

COMMON SENSE TIP OF THE WEEK

Social Media and Mental Health

In this time when devices are a lifeline to connect with others, kids are testing out social media at younger ages than before the pandemic. But is social media a risk for kids' mental health? New research on older kids and mental health has found that, actually, teens are turning to online communities for support and advice. At the same time, more teens are seeing racist, sexist, and homophobic content on social media than they were two years ago.

As you continue to negotiate new screen-time rules in your household, consider both the positives and negatives of the time your kids are online. Take time to talk with them about what they enjoy and where they feel supported online. Also ask them whether they ever see things online that make them feel unsafe. Be sure they know the steps they can take when they see something that upsets them. And think twice before taking away a device as a consequence for their behavior. The online world—despite its faults—can help kids stay connected to friends and find a supportive community.

K-8 Overview Digital Literacy Lessons
Thinking About Digital Lives: Prof Growth 3/28/18 and 3/29/18
Library and Educational Technology Skills Matrix
Day 1 - Teaching Kids in Post-Truth World Professional Growth
Upper School Research Expectations for Teachers
Day 2 - Teaching Kids in Post-Truth World Professional Growth