Common Sense Media has unveiled a new digital literacy curriculum tailored for K-8 schools, aiming to equip students with essential skills to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape. The curriculum, named the Digital Literacy and Well-Being Curriculum, is a response to the increasing use of AI and the necessity for updated cell phone and AI policies in schools nationwide. Eisha Buch, MeD, spearheaded the development of this curriculum, emphasizing the importance of preparing children to thrive in a technology-driven world.
This initiative comes as a revamp of the existing curriculum that currently serves a vast number of schools, including a significant portion of Title 1 schools across the country. The decision to overhaul the curriculum was prompted by the realization that children are growing up in a tech-centric environment that demands a different set of skills from what traditional education provides.
The new curriculum, slated for release in the 2026-2027 school year, underwent a meticulous two-year development process involving input from a panel of experts and educators. With 147 updated lessons, the curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, safe technology use, and responsible online behavior. Noteworthy changes include shorter lesson durations and enhanced interactivity to keep students engaged and make teaching more manageable for educators.
Stephanie Banning, a seasoned educator, praises the curriculum’s interactive nature, noting how it fosters meaningful discussions in classrooms. By presenting real-world scenarios, the curriculum encourages students to actively participate in debates and problem-solving, offering a practical approach to digital literacy education.
Moreover, the curriculum extends beyond the classroom, providing resources for parents to support and reinforce the lessons at home. Family engagement tools such as “carpool conversations” leverage everyday activities to facilitate open dialogues between parents and children about digital well-being.
While the new curriculum is readily available, schools have until June 2026 to transition from the old materials. To aid educators in implementing the curriculum effectively, Common Sense Media offers a professional development course starting in August 2025. Teachers completing the course will receive a certificate of completion, ensuring they are equipped to deliver the curriculum successfully.
Parents interested in seeing this curriculum in their child’s school are encouraged to inquire with teachers and administrators. By raising awareness about the availability and benefits of the Digital Literacy & Well-Being Curriculum, parents can contribute to creating a more tech-savvy and responsible generation.
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