Hi @sandberg_janice
Welcome to the Canvas Community.
I am so pleased that you have started this discussion. I'm happy to add my $0.02 worth and hope that others share theirs.
As far as 'best practice' goes I think this is really up to the teacher/school and their context. There are so many permutations and purposes for using Canvas.
However in K-6 I've found that teachers appreciate a good template to get started. Here are a few that people have shared. K-12 Home Pages – examples please
As a primary school teacher, mainly grades 3-4, I like to have each curriculum area accessed via a button on the home page, as well as the 'context for learning' that we are discovering/exploring. This is where the waters can get muddied, as you know, curriculum areas integrate really well so some things may link to the same place while others may not.
The Mathematics button usually links to maths lessons, group work, maths games and reflective discussions. But maths is also integrated into the 'context for learning' section but in different ways, more activity based.
You are lucky to have 1:1 devices, that really is a game changer. Once the students have logged in a few times they are away. Can logging in be simplified for younger students?
Try to get them involved in the design of what's happening in Canvas, their ownership and fab ideas help it to come alive and increase engagement.
Here are a few other ideas worth considering:
Best reasons for using Canvas K-6
Dip Your Toe In The Water
https://community.canvaslms.com/groups/strategies/blog/2017/12/17/dont-be-a-slave-to-your-lms-make-i...
Creating a purpose.
Pearl of Wisdom in Sydney
Invigorating English – Encouraging Writing Within Canvas K-6
The Orb - An Aboriginal Resource - even if you aren't in Australia this is a great resource!
What's on your plate? - make your life easier with Canvas
When Magic Happens. Students experience as editors in Canvas.
Differentiation and Personalised Learning
Horse Before the Cart. Purpose first, Canvas second.
Collaborations – Changed my world!
Collaborations - Getting Started
School wide Assessment Gathering
Assessment and the Little People
Assessment and the little people - Part Two
Communication in Canvas
I'm keen to hear how you get on. Feel free to share your story with us in the Community. We will learn from you too.
Sing out if you need a hand.