Student Wellbeing

SCREEN TIME AND TECHNOLOGY

Technology is a part of everyday life and when used correctly and in moderation can be a part of a healthy lifestyle. It is important we are making sure children balance screen time with other healthy, fun activities!

How do you know if your child is using screens and technology in a healthy balanced way?

Is your child:

• Sleeping enough

• Physically healthy

• Mentally and emotionally healthy

• Engaging with school

• Connecting socially with friends and family online and offline

• Enjoying a variety of hobbies and interests

• Doing physical activities every day

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If you answered yes to most of these questions, your child is likely using technology in a healthy balanced way.

Family rules for screen time and technology use

Having family rules about screen time and technology can ensure your child understands the limits and expectations. It is important when making the rules, that all family members are involved. Rules need to be flexible for school days, weekends and holidays. Rules need to be revisited every few months and when a new device is introduced into the home.

What to think about when creating rules:

Where your child can use digital technology – for example, this might be only in shared open spaces like the family room, but not in the car or bedroom.

When your child can use digital technology – for example, mealtimes are free of TV, computers and phones, or no screens before school or until chores are finished.

How your child can use digital technology – for example, this might be for making animations or checking a netball shooting technique, but not for playing Candy Crush.

How you handle digital technology use for children of different ages – for example, there might be some games that your older child can play only when their younger sibling is out or has gone to bed.

How your child can stay safe online.