Parent Wellbeing

Supporting Your Teen in Finding a Healthy Tech-Life Balance

In today’s world, technology surrounds us – from smartphones and gaming consoles to laptops used for schoolwork. While technology offers plenty of advantages, such as staying connected with friends and easy access to learning resources, it's also important to help teens take regular breaks from screens to maintain a healthy balance in their lives. Navigating this balance can be tricky, but with the right strategies, you can support your teen in creating healthier habits.

One of the most effective ways to encourage healthy habits is by setting an example. When teens see you taking time away from screens, whether it’s during meals, before bed, or while winding down at the end of the day, they are more likely to follow suit. Modelling technology-free moments shows them that it’s possible to create a healthy routine, and it highlights the benefits of disconnecting from screens. Your actions can speak louder than rules, showing that balance can be achieved without sacrificing enjoyment.

Instead of enforcing strict limits, consider having an open conversation with your teen about setting boundaries for their technology use. Collaboration is key – discuss what feels reasonable while considering schoolwork, socializing, and downtime. By involving your teen in this decision-making process, you empower them to take ownership of their tech habits, which makes them more likely to follow through. This approach also avoids the potential for resistance and allows your teen to develop self-regulation skills.

Finally, when your teen takes the initiative to step away from technology, make sure to acknowledge their effort and celebrate those moments. Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool that can help build lasting habits, making breaks from screens feel like a rewarding choice rather than a restriction. Celebrating their success in managing their time can boost their confidence and motivate them to continue making healthy choices.

By supporting them with thoughtful strategies and open communication, you’re not just encouraging a break from screens – you’re helping them develop lifelong skills for managing their time, their relationships with technology, and their wellbeing.

With your support, teens can thrive both online and offline!

More information can be found on Compass and in earlier pages of this Newsletter.

State School Relief

State School’s Relief State Schools' Relief is a caring not-for-profit organisation that supports tens of thousands of disadvantaged Victorian students and their families every year. With the rising cost of living, many families face difficulties in providing essential school items such as uniforms, textbooks, and transport. State Schools’ Relief is here to help, ensuring students can attend school feeling comfortable, included, and ready to succeed.

If you hold a pension or Centrelink card and need assistance with uniforms, textbooks, or a PTV card for travel, please contact wellbeing@wantirnacollege.vic.edu.au for support and more information.

SSR-Voucher-FAQs-Sheet.pdf

Parentline: Compassionate Support for Parents When You Need It Most

Parenting can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges. At times, it may feel like you're navigating tough situations on your own, but you don’t have to. Parentline offers confidential and compassionate counselling and support for parents and carers of children from birth to 18 years old. Whether you’re dealing with a small concern or a bigger issue, Parentline is here to listen, support, and help you find practical solutions.

Available from 8 am to midnight, seven days a week, including public holidays, Parentline ensures there’s always someone ready to help when you need it.

How Parentline Can Help

Talk About What Matters: Parentline’s qualified counsellors are there to talk through anything related to parenting. Whether it’s your child’s behaviour, development, or your relationship with them, you can share your concerns without fear of judgment.

Coping and Positive Parenting Strategies: The counsellors provide practical advice to help you cope with difficult situations while remaining a positive and supportive parent.

Family Wellbeing: Whether you’re struggling with family stress, your child's anxiety, or navigating the teenage years, Parentline offers guidance to strengthen your family’s resilience.

Connecting You to Local Resources: If needed, Parentline can also link you with local services that can provide further support.

Always Confidential and Accessible

Parentline ensures every call is completely private and anonymous. There are no time limits on calls, and you can call back as often as you need. If you're concerned about the cost of the call, they’re happy to call you back and will prioritize your call so you get through to a counsellor quickly. Parentline also supports non-English speaking parents with interpreters, and hearing-impaired callers can reach out through the National Relay Service.

Helping with Common Concerns

Parenting can be stressful, and it’s not uncommon to feel unsure about how to handle certain situations. Whether you're worried about sibling rivalry, your child's online activity, or a more serious issue, Parentline is there to help. Here are some of the challenges they can support you with:

"My kids keep fighting, and I don’t know how to handle it."
"I’m worried my child is being bullied at school."
"I’m struggling with my 4-year-old’s tantrums and feel like I’m losing patience."
"My teen seems anxious all the time, and I’m not sure how to help."
"Every conversation with my teenager turns into an argument."

What Parents Are Saying

Many parents find the service to be a lifeline during difficult times. Here’s what some have shared:

"Talking to someone who really listened helped me feel less alone. I didn’t feel judged, just understood."

"Parentline took my concerns seriously and gave me real strategies to try. I felt more confident after the call."

If you need support, guidance, or just someone to talk to, you can reach Parentline at 13 22 89. Whatever challenges you’re facing, big or small, Parentline is here to help you and your family navigate them with understanding and care.