iCloud

LQ: 8.4

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Brain grade: 8.6
Fun score: 8.1

Platform/Console: , , , , LWK Recommended Age: 8+ Thinking Skills Used: ,

iCloud is Apple’s cloud-based storage system, allowing information can be backed up over Wi-Fi or any internet connection. Conceptually, it is similar to apps like Dropbox and Cubby, but comparatively offers a bit more functionally. Calendars, contacts, notes, music, videos – virtually anything can be backed up to iCloud and accessed remotely. Although Apple offers only 5 GB of free space, users can purchase up to 55 GB of additional space. Because iCould syncs as soon as it connects to a wireless internet source, users can set reminders and write notes that immediately transfer from a desktop or laptop directly to a mobile device. iCloud is relatively easy to use, and there is no inappropriate content within the app itself, making it appropriate for users ages 8 and up. However, images can be shared with others via the “photo stream,” so parents should carefully monitor content uploaded to the cloud.


This APp is Good for Children who Need Help With:

Organization

Arranging and coordinating materials in order to complete a task.

iCloudiCloud is not a traditional "app" like Cubby and Dropbox. It cannot be purchased from the app store. It is an integrated part of all iOS software. The app serves as a hub for organizing photos, documents and other media, and users can update calenders, set reminders, and create events, which will immediately transfer to their mobile devices. The iCloud website is neatly presented, featuring an "iWork" section, allowing users to create and share work from any iOS device, then organize them into folder to ensure all information is arranged together logically, making it easy to locate and use files later on. Users can write a short report using Pages on a Mac, have it synced to the cloud and then edited via an iPhone or iPad. Contacts, apps and other media can all be uploaded and sorted to iCoud, making it easy to manage files no matter where users are.

Planning

Developing a systematic approach for setting and achieving goals.

The ability to manage schedules across multiple digital devices makes iCloud a great tool for facilitating good Planning skills. By syncing multiple iOS functionalities, iCloud makes it easy to set reminders, create upcoming events and update calendars within a central hub. A reminder can be set on the computer at home, and users will be notified via phone at the corresponding time. It can function like a daily planner for those in school, a calender for organizing events, and an alarm for appropriating time and keeping users on schedule. Useful files and documents can be uploaded to the cloud for later use, helping users prepare for busy days and better manage their work load. It is truly a comprehensive virtual planner that functions across multiple digital platforms.

To get the most out of iCloud, try some of the specific suggestions below, or let us know how you use this app in the comment box at the bottom of the page.

Organization Activity

iCloudBecause the free version is limited to 5 GB of space, work with your child to engage the "manual sync" option. This will keep the app from automatically uploading to the cloud, instead allowing you to select what is shared across all devices. Organize a list of content the will be most useful for your child to transfer to the cloud. Warn your child not upload too much media, especially videos, as those types of files will drain storage space. Instead, encourage your child to keep more important information synced, allowing it to be accessed even when away from home. Be sure to speak with your child about the importance of syncing features like reminders, notes, and calendars. Especially for students -- and professionals -- these features really make iCloud an integral part of organizing a day's activities.

Planning Activity

With your child, plan his activities for the upcoming week or month using the calendar function. Tests, quizzes, homework assignments, and extra-curricular events should all be included. Set reminder alerts to keep your child up-do date with all of his commitments so he will be notified periodically when deadlines are approaching  Include short and long notes to accompany each reminder letting your child know exactly what each obligation demands, like the details of reading assignment or class project. For such school-related reminders, include supplemental materials he can use to help complete his assignment, like notes, textbooks excerpts and study sheets. Once he has plan going into a week, he will be better able manage his responsibilities more efficiently.

iCloud & ADHD

iCloudChildren with ADHD often lack the skills necessary to manage their time properly. Difficulties denoting priority and significance to school related matters causes children with ADHD to overlook more important assignments, or procrastinate important papers that have been assigned over the long-term. iCloud makes managing these various commitments much easier to handle, especially for children who become easily overwhelmed.

How to Use iCloud for Children with ADHD:

  • It is extremely important to help children with ADHD create a schedule. Use the iOS calendar to sync with iCloud to create a detailed calendar. Even things that may seem insignificant like;bring notebooks to class to Math period 4, or bring home Spanish workbook every night, can prove to be beneficial for children with ADHD.
  • Children with ADHD should be sure to set reminders for every calendar event. They may forget to check the calender every once in a while, so setting up daily reminders will keep children with ADHD up-to-date with exactly what they have scheduled for a particular day or week.
  • By highlighting iCloud's "Storage & Backup" feature, children can keep track of exactly what they are syncing to their devices. In addition to simply monitoring transferred data, children with ADHD, can find out the amount of available space they have to work with. If they wanted to include a game, video, or a few music files to their iCloud collection, by engaging the function, they will find out exactly how much space they have to work with before making the decision.

iCloud is a pretty unique resource, but there are a few similar alternatives below. Let us know which one you prefer in the comment box at the bottom of the page.

Dropbox

Dropbox is one of the original cloud-based storage systemsFind out more in our DropBox review.

 

CubbyCubby

Cubby is another cloud-based storage app, that offers up to 5 GB of space for free. Be sure to look at out the Cubby Review for more information.

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