St Gabriel's School Newsletter
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Wellbeing & Learning Diversity

Supporting Healthy Screen Time Habits

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Technology is an important part of children's lives, offering opportunities to learn, connect and have fun. As families, one of the most important things we can do is help children develop a healthy balance between time spent online and time spent engaging in other activities.

 

Rather than focusing only on the amount of time children spend on screens, it's also important to consider what they are doing online and whether screen use is affecting their overall wellbeing. Ask yourself:

  • Are they getting enough sleep?
  • Are they staying active each day?
  • Are they spending time with family and friends?
  • Are they still enjoying hobbies and activities away from a screen?

 

If you notice changes such as becoming withdrawn, losing interest in favourite activities, difficulty sleeping, changes in mood or becoming upset when asked to stop using a device, it may be a good time to review their screen habits and have a calm conversation about their online experiences.

Tips for Supporting Healthy Screen Time

  • Create a family plan that includes a balance of screen time and offline activities.
  • Set clear expectations about when and where devices can be used.
  • Encourage regular breaks from screens, particularly before bedtime.
  • Keep devices out of bedrooms overnight where possible.
  • Spend time online together by playing games, exploring educational websites or talking about what your child enjoys doing online.
  • Model healthy screen habits by limiting your own screen use during family time.

 

Open and positive conversations are one of the best ways to support children in developing safe and healthy online habits. By working together, we can help children enjoy the benefits of technology while maintaining a balanced, active and connected lifestyle.

 

For further information: https://www.esafety.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-06/EC-ESP-screen-time-tips-flyer_0.pdf?v=1783910543986

Learning Diversity

In August each year, schools across Australia are required to complete the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD.) The NCCD counts the number of students who receive additional adjustments or support at school and helps governments plan for the needs of students with disability. Our Nurture Growth NCCD Team, submits our student data based on evidence and rigorous moderation. For further information, please see the linked Fact Sheet for Parents, Carers and Guardians.