Explain the three ways information reaches the assistant · Know why some apps are marked 'varies'
Lesson 1 · Steps
Step by step
List the apps your family uses: school portal, team app, calendar, email, pharmacy, grocery.
Next to each, note whether it emails you notifications (most do).
Check if it offers a 'subscribe to calendar' or iCal link (many team and school apps do).
Mark anything you're unsure of as 'varies'. That's fine.
Lesson 1 · Key points
Key points
Three paths: direct connection, calendar link, notification email.
'Varies' is honest. We confirm during setup.
Email notifications are the most universal path.
Lesson 2 · ~10 min
Connecting your calendar
Connect Google Calendar or Outlook · Set up a shared family calendar
Lesson 2 · Steps
Step by step
In your assistant, ask to connect your calendar and follow the sign-in screen from Google or Microsoft. You type your password there, never in the chat.
Create (or pick) one calendar called 'Family' and share it with your spouse or co-parent.
Ask the assistant: "List what's on the Family calendar next week." Check it's right.
If you use a kitchen display, follow its own instructions to show the Family calendar (varies by device).
Lesson 2 · Key points
Key points
Connect through the provider's sign-in page only.
One shared Family calendar beats five scattered ones.
Verify with a simple read before relying on it.
Lesson 3 · ~9 min
Connecting email
Connect Gmail or Outlook safely · Set up a filter or label for family mail
Lesson 3 · Steps
Step by step
Connect Gmail or Outlook through the official sign-in screen.
Create a label or folder called 'Family' (school, teams, doctors, bills).
Optional: set up filters so school and team emails land there automatically.
Ask: "Summarize this week's Family emails in five lines."
Lesson 3 · Key points
Key points
Gmail and Outlook connect directly.
Labels keep the assistant focused on family mail.
Read and draft only. Sending needs your yes.
Lesson 4 · ~11 min
School and team apps
Get school and team updates flowing to the assistant · Know the limits for each app type
Lesson 4 · Steps
Step by step
In each school app, open notification settings and turn on email alerts for missing work, grades and announcements.
Choose a weekly or daily email summary if offered (Canvas and Google Classroom both offer guardian summaries in many districts; varies).
In team apps, turn on schedule-change emails and copy the calendar subscription link if there is one.
Tell the assistant which kid each school or team belongs to.