Common Sense Media Releases Tech in Schools Toolkit for Educators and Families
SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 29, 2026—Common Sense Media released today the Tech in Schools Toolkit, a collection of free resources to support families, educators, and district leaders to make thoughtful, developmentally appropriate decisions about technology use in the classroom. With the rapid adoption of technology at home and in schools, this toolkit was designed to establish consistent, evidence-based best practices for kids across all facets of their digital lives.
The toolkit is grounded in three foundational principles that span different audiences. It starts with Age and Stage, which provides best practices based on developmental stages to guide decision-making for each grade level. Then it moves into how to Define and Determine Intentions around how students are using different devices and software for learning. Finally, it helps determine how to Educate and Communicate so every adult stakeholder is aligned and empowered to discuss the approach that best fits their students' needs.
"Schools and families are asking difficult questions about technology right now, and they should be," said Common Sense Media Chief Program Officer Yvette Renteria. "Concerns about screen time, distraction, safety, and what technology is actually adding to a child's education are real. This toolkit helps schools and families make those choices with purpose. It gives communities a practical way to put guardrails on where technology belongs and how schools can effectively incorporate evidence-based use of technology in the classroom."
The toolkit includes resources tailored to the needs of each audience, including:
- For Families: A glossary of terms to aid in a better understanding of technology in schools.
- For Teachers: Templates and presentations to drive effective communication around tech with families.
- For Administrators: A guide to establishing and defining your approach to technology in schools.
The Tech in Schools Toolkit was developed by Common Sense Media classroom and family experts, and informed by findings from focus groups with educators and families. The resources are designed to be flexible and adaptable so schools, districts, and families can apply the framework to their own communities. You can access it here.
About Common Sense Media
Common Sense Media is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the research-backed information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the age of apps, algorithms, and AI. We rate, educate, and advocate to protect and prepare kids online. Our ratings, research, and resources reach more than 150 million users globally, over 1.5 million educators, and more than 100,000 schools worldwide every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.