At Laurel Wreath Academy, we believe in the power of hands-on, meaningful learning—free from unnecessary digital distractions. In an age where screens dominate childhood, we take a low-tech, no-tech approach in our classrooms, ensuring that students develop essential cognitive, social, and practical skills before introducing technology in a purposeful and age-appropriate manner.

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Our Approach to Technology in the Classroom

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• Lower Elementary : No tablets, laptops, or personal devices are used in the classroom. Learning is hands-on, tactile, and rooted in Montessori and Classical education principles, emphasizing real-world engagement, critical thinking, and social interaction.

• Upper Elementary : Students begin to develop typing skills and use select offline resources directly related to classwork.

• Middle School & Higher  Technology is introduced selectively and with supervision, used only for school projects, research, and skill-building activities.

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* Please Note: This policy does not apply to communication or medical devices.

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No Cell Phones at School

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To maintain a focused and socially engaged learning environment, students may not have cell phones at school. Research consistently shows that cell phones can be distracting, hinder learning, and negatively impact social interactions. We encourage students to fully engage in their education and peer relationships without the interruptions of personal devices. Parents who need to contact their child during the school day may do so through the school office.

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Why We Limit Technology: The Research Behind Our Approach

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Numerous studies highlight the impact of excessive screen time on brain development, attention, executive functioning, and social skills. By minimizing screen exposure in early education, we help students build critical cognitive and social foundations that support lifelong learning.

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• Brain Development & Executive Functioning: Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) shows that excessive screen time in young children can alter brain structure, particularly in areas responsible for language, cognitive flexibility, and impulse control (Hutton et al., 2019).

• Attention & Focus: A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that increased digital media use in early childhood correlates with higher risks of attention-related disorders (Radesky et al., 2018).

• Social & Emotional Development: Studies indicate that face-to-face interaction is crucial for language acquisition, empathy, and social problem-solving—skills that can be hindered when children rely heavily on digital communication (Kirkorian et al., 2009).

• Mental Health & Anxiety: Research from the American Psychological Association (APA) has linked increased screen time to higher levels of anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation in adolescents (Twenge & Campbell, 2018).

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Encouraging Real-World Engagement

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By prioritizing books, hands-on materials, and real-world exploration, we foster deep thinking, creativity, and problem-solving—skills that technology alone cannot cultivate. Our Montessori and Classical education methods emphasize:

✔ Fine motor development through writing, drawing, and manipulative work
✔ Memory retention and comprehension through literature-based learning
✔ Critical thinking and problem-solving through Socratic discussions and practical application
✔ Collaboration and teamwork through group projects and real-world interactions

 

A Balanced Approach to Technology

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While we acknowledge the importance of digital literacy, our goal is to introduce technology responsibly, when developmentally appropriate. By delaying unnecessary screen exposure and fostering strong foundational skills, we ensure that our students develop the independence, discipline, and discernment needed to use technology as a tool—not a crutch.

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At Laurel Wreath Academy, we are committed to providing an education that respects how children learn best, ensuring that technology serves as an aid, not a substitute for rich, meaningful learning.

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