Wellbeing

A message from Georgina Manning 

A few days ago as I was walking to get a coffee I walked past two ten year old girls who were walking to school.  It was refreshing to see that children were allowed to walk to school independently but then my heart sank as I saw they both had their heads down completely engrossed in their smartphones.  They had no idea of their surroundings and were not talking to each other.  I actually felt an incredible sense of helplessness wash over me seeing what this technological society has done to our children.  

Firstly, no child in primary school needs a smart phone.  If they have to have a phone, then a simple phone will suffice that allows them to just make calls if necessary.  Secondly they don't need social media.  Not only do they not need it, but it is actually doing incredible harm as I am sure you all know.  

I have just finished reading Jonathon Haidt's book  -'The Anxious Generation'.  It has to be one of the best books I have read in years.  Finally all the research in one place shows clearly the damage social media and smartphones are doing to our teens.  There doesn't seem to be as much research around the primary years yet, however logically we can make those links to the harm it would be doing to them too.  And as Jonathon Haidt puts it - phones are an experience blocker if nothing else.  He suggests no social media until at least 16 - Wow finally experts are coming out and showing why this is vital and how this is backed by research.  

It has been promising to hear our government talking recently about bringing in more restrictions around this for our children following on from Florida's recent restrictions on social media for teens. Hopefully our country will follow suit soon.  

Georgie :)

Teeth On Wheels

A MESSAGE FROM TEETH ON WHEELS:

Your child’s dental health is important to us, that’s why Teeth on Wheels will be visiting our school July 16, 2024.

Click the link below to sign your child up - IT MIGHT BE FREE!

https://teethonwheels.com.au/consent-forms/consent-eform/

Teeth on Wheels are focussed on providing a positive dental experience and specialise with working with children. They can provide check-up and clean appointments, as well as treatment onsite at OLA and will be able to advise you if your child is eligible to receive dental care for FREE under the Child Dental Benefit Schedule.

Please complete your form today and the Teeth on Wheels team will be in contact to confirm and schedule your child’s appointment.

E-forms must be completed by July 9 2024 for your child to participate. If you are unable to access the e-form, a paper will be sent home and spare copies will be available from the school office.

For any further questions, please contact the Teeth On Wheels team on (03) 9338 1191.

Shelby Turner and Josy Reeder