Principal News

Leadership Update

David Foley will be extending his sick leave into Term Three and will not be returning for the start of the term as originally expected. Whilst he continues to recover well, he is still not well enough to be able to be onsite at this stage.

Disco

On Tuesday June 23rd we will be holding our Day Disco in the hall. The theme for this year is Superheroes and Disney. Students are invited to dress in these themes. Costumes do not need to be runway quality or detail. Student can wear a touch of Disney or Superhero through to full costumes if they already have something they fancy wearing. It is probably a good idea to test out the costume at home to some tunes to see if dancing is possible in the costumes selected to avoid disappointment on the day. The discos will be run in year levels groups from 9:15am-1:00pm.

Labelling of personal items and lost property

We are fortunate enough to have a volunteer sorting out lost property several times per week. So far lots of items have been making their way back to their owners. There are large piles of unnamed uniform, clothing, lunch boxes that we can’t identify for return. It would be a great idea if you can make sure all your child’s clothing and property is named to enable it to be returned to you swiftly.

Family Camp

There are still places available for our family camp if you are thinking it might be fun!

Online Gaming and safety

When thinking about the challenges around online gaming, for many parents, the sight of a child deeply engrossed in a video game — navigating virtual worlds with skill and enthusiasm — is a familiar one. The child has learnt the mechanics of the game, developed strategies and perhaps even connected with existing (or new) friends online. While gaming can be a source of entertainment and learning, it also raises important questions for parents about balance, safety and the impact on their child’s development.

Understanding the appeal

For many children, gaming is more than just a pastime. It’s a way to unwind, socialise and challenge themselves. Games often provide a sense of achievement through levels, rewards and defined, measurable progress. Gaming platforms can also be outlets for creativity as they sometimes allow children to build, explore and experiment in virtual environments.

Setting boundaries

As with any activity, moderation is key. Establishing clear boundaries around gaming time helps ensure that it doesn’t interfere with other important aspects of life such as homework, physical activity, spending time with friends face-to-face, other hobbies and family time. If parents can involve their child in the discussions and resulting agreements about the reasonable amount of gaming time allowed each day or week – and be consistent in enforcing these limits – then it will help to establish a good framework from the beginning. It can be very different to try to impose limits on children once a precedent has been set, for example if they’ve had no limits in terms of time, to then insist that they start timing their time spent, parents may encounter resistance.

Encouraging balance

Encourage your child to engage in a variety of activities. Balance gaming with outdoor play, reading, other hobbies and ‘live’ social interactions. Ensuring there is a variety of activities helps children develop a range of skills and interests, which promotes overall well-being. Some parents feel that moderation is a good rule-of-thumb approach.

Safety first

Online gaming can expose children to risks such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content and potentially dangerous interactions with strangers who may not be who they say they are. Teaching your child about online safety – including the importance of protecting personal information and how to recognise inappropriate behaviour – is an essential part of allowing children to spend time online generally, including being on gaming platforms. Use of parental controls and privacy settings can help manage their online interactions, but nothing replaces an active engaged parent who is familiar with the different platforms their child is using. The best and easiest way to learn about platforms is to spend some time with your child engaging with a game. Have them explain to you how to play the game, which will give you the best insight into how it works. It will also give you the language so that you can talk with your child about their gaming, making it easier for you to check in.

Open communication

Maintain an open dialogue about gaming. Ask your child about the games they play, what they enjoy about them and any challenges they face. This interest shows that you value their experiences and helps you stay informed about their gaming habits. Being genuinely curious and interested means that your child will be enthusiastic about explaining and sharing this aspect of what they enjoy participating in game-wise.

Positive reinforcement

Acknowledge and praise your child’s achievements in gaming, just as you would in other areas of their life. This positive reinforcement can boost their self-esteem and encourage them to approach gaming with a healthy mindset.

Modelling behaviour

Children often mimic the behaviour of adults. If we model a balanced approach to screen time and gaming in our own lives then it makes it more reasonable for us to then have conversations with them about balance. Show them that while gaming can be fun, it’s important to make time for other activities and responsibilities.

Educational opportunities

Look for games that offer educational value. Many games can enhance skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity. Encourage your child to explore games that align with their interests and provide learning opportunities, especially while also providing off-line opportunities for learning and skill development.

Support and guidance

Be supportive and provide guidance when needed. If your child is struggling with gaming addiction or if it starts to negatively impact their life, it’s important to seek professional help. Addressing these issues early can prevent long-term problems.

By understanding the appeal of gaming, setting boundaries, encouraging balance, prioritising safety, maintaining open communication and providing support, parents can help their children enjoy gaming in a healthy and positive way.

Some signs there may be addiction issues (taken from article on Raising Children Network):

Withdrawing from friends and family

Neglecting usual activities

Performing worse at school

Often complains about feeling tired or sleep problems

Hiding or lying about how much, they play

Talking a lot about gaming

Comments about thinking a lot about gaming

Finding it hard to stop or limit place

Experiencing ‘gamer rage’ – angry or aggressive behaviour while gaming or when asked to stop