Build healthy online habits over the break

As the school term winds down and holidays begin, it’s the perfect moment to pause and refresh your family’s online safety basics. With more free time, children are likely to spend extra hours online –

whether that’s chatting, gaming or exploring new apps – so a quick check-in

now can make a big difference to reduce risks and build their confidence to ask for help.

💬 Start with connection

Take a few minutes to ask what your child enjoys doing online and be engaged, open and supportive. Keeping conversations ongoing and judgement-free helps children feel comfortable speaking up if something goes wrong.

From there, you can set clear expectations by agreeing on boundaries for device use, online behaviour and where screens are used in the home. Tools like parental controls

and privacy settings can help, but your ongoing involvement is what really counts.

🎮 Create a safe gaming environment

You might also find gaming plays a bigger role these holidays. It can be a great way for

kids to build skills and stay connected with friends but it’s important to stay involved. Know what games they’re playing, who they’re playing with, and set boundaries.

Check out our advice on how to create a safer gaming environment.

And when it comes to screen time more broadly, aim for balance – encourage creative, interactive use of tech alongside plenty of offline activities.

A few small steps now can help support safer, more positive online experiences for

your family over the holidays.

👇 For more, explore eSafety’s online safety basics and tips for every age group.

Explore online safety basics

Wellbeing Over the School Holidays

As we head into the school holidays, it is important for students and families to take time to rest, recharge and reconnect. After a busy term, holidays provide an opportunity

to focus on wellbeing, enjoy time together and participate in activities that support both physical and mental health.

While it can be tempting to spend long periods on screens, maintaining a balance between technology, physical activity, social connection and relaxation can help young

people return to school feeling refreshed and ready to learn.

Some simple ways to support wellbeing over the break include:

Maintaining a regular sleep routine.
Spending time outdoors each day.
Connecting with family and friends.
Reading for pleasure.
Trying a new hobby or creative activity.
Helping around the home or learning a new life skill such as cooking.
Taking time to relax and unwind.

Local Holiday Activities

Families looking for activities during the break may wish to explore some of the

opportunities available in the Glen Innes area:

Glen Innes Severn Council's Youth Holiday Break Program offers free activities for children and young people, designed to promote social connection, creativity and wellbeing. Activities often include art workshops, fitness sessions, sports, library activities and creative projects.
The Glen Innes Severn Public & TAFE Library regularly hosts youth activities, craft sessions and holiday programs that encourage creativity and connection.
Explore local walking tracks, parks and open spaces around Glen Innes. Spending time in nature has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress and increase overall wellbeing.
Visit local attractions such as the Australian Standing Stones, local museums, galleries or community events.
Enjoy a family picnic, bike ride or outdoor scavenger hunt in one of our beautiful local parks.
Get creative at home with baking, art projects, journaling, photography or gardening

Looking After Mental Health

School holidays can be enjoyable, but they can also be challenging for some young people. If your child is feeling overwhelmed, anxious or struggling emotionally, encourage open conversations and seek support if needed. Remind them that it is okay to ask for help and that support is available.

For immediate mental health support:

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

We wish all students and families a safe, happy and restful holiday break and look forward to welcoming everyone back next term.

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