Wellbeing

Helping Kids Grow With Technology 

Technology is part of our everyday lives—at home, in school, and even on the playground! For primary school students, using devices like tablets, laptops, or smartphones can be fun and helpful. However, when children spend too much time on screens at home and school, it can: 

● Make it harder to focus 

● Affect sleep patterns 

● Reduce face-to-face social skills

 ● Lead to less physical activity 

● This could lead to obesity, sleep disorders, or mental health conditions 

That’s why balance is key. 

Tips for Healthy Tech Use 

Here are a few simple ways to support safe and smart technology use at home and in school: 

Set screen time limits. The Australian guidelines recommend no more than two hours per day of recreational screen time for children aged 5–17 (crowthercentre.org.au). 

Choose educational content. Use apps and games that teach reading, math, or creativity. Look for those made by trusted educators. 

Create tech-free zones. No screens during meals or 1 hour before bedtime help kids sleep better and talk more with family. 

Model good behaviour. Children learn from adults. If they see you putting away your phone at dinner or reading books, they’re more likely to do the same.

When Should we be Worried? 

Signs that your child’s online activity may be harming them and your family include:

● Withdrawal and loss of interest in social activities they used to enjoy e.g. sports, catching up with friends and family 

● Disengagement from school 

● Sleep disturbances, fatigue 

● Changes in eating patterns 

● Reduced personal hygiene

 ● Obsession with particular websites or games 

● Extreme behaviour when asked to take a break from screens e.g. anger, anxiety, tears

 ● Appearing anxious or irritable when away from the computer (www.esafety.gov.org)

Let's Keep Talking

Technology isn’t good or bad—it depends on how it’s used. Let’s keep talking as a team to help our kids grow up smart, healthy, and happy in a digital world.

Tarneit Rise Wellbeing Team Brochure

‘Zones’ Wellbeing Group with Miss Jade and Miss Lisa!