Quick Tips for Keeping School-Provided Devices in Good Shape

School-issued devices have become a key part of the modern education landscape. From online lessons to homework, these tools serve an important purpose. But with daily use, they need proper maintenance. Use our essential tips to keep school-provided devices in good shape and ensure they last through the school year.

Make Cleaning a Routine

Frequent cleaning prevents dirt, oil, and germs from accumulating on screens and keyboards. Use soft, lint-free microfiber towels for this task. Avoid household cleaners with harsh chemicals, as these can also damage sensitive surfaces. Instead, opt for dampened cloths or specific electronic-safe cleaning sprays.

How Often Is Enough?

Aim to clean devices weekly or more often if your children use them daily. A little regular care keeps devices hygienic and functioning well.

Master Proper Storage

Where you and your child choose to store a device can make a big difference in how long it lasts. Keep it in a dry, cool area when not in use. Avoid locations prone to spills, falls, or exposure to high heat, like kitchen counters or cars on hot days. Protective cases and padded backpacks add an extra layer of safety during transit to and from school.

Charge and Connect Responsibly

Improper charging habits can cause electronics to lose battery power over time, leading to dead laptops and tablets in the middle of class. While it’s tempting, you should also avoid charging overnight, as the long charging period can strain batteries. Instead, encourage charging during daytime hours and unplugging once the battery is full.

Additionally, parents should familiarize themselves with cable and connector terminology so that they can provide their kids with the right connections for specific tasks. Using the proper charging cords and storage options for the school-provided device will help kids make the most of their technology. Advise kids of all ages against connecting to unfamiliar devices, including USB drives, as doing so could introduce unwanted files or viruses.

Encourage Mindful Usage

Kids often don’t think twice about how they handle school-issued devices. Habits like grabbing them by the screen, slamming them shut, or stacking them under books can lead to damage. Stress the importance of gentle handling to prevent cracked screens or broken hinges.

Don’t forget to address the mental aspect of device use too. It can be tricky balancing necessary screen time with the potential for overuse. Consider setting screen-use schedules and determining how much screen time is too much for your distance learner. This way, devices aren’t just teaching tools for academic subjects—they’re also able to teach healthy digital habits.

Update and Back Up Regularly

System updates can feel like an annoying interruption, but they’re essential for performance. They patch vulnerabilities, improve functionality, and ensure devices run smoothly. Encourage your children to install updates when prompted or bring the device to you when system pop-ups appear. Equally crucial is backing up files, whether through cloud storage or an external drive, as this measure allows your child to avoid losing schoolwork in the event of a malfunction.

Keep Devices User-Ready

When devices are in good shape, they’re more reliable during important tasks. Taking steps like cleaning, teaching proper handling, and arranging for effective storage can save you both time and money.

By following these simple yet effective strategies, you’ll ensure your child can rely on their tech tools throughout the school year. Keeping school-provided devices in good shape is worth the effort—it’s the key to smooth sailing in their academic journey.