Ulverstone Campus Principal

Dear Parents, Students and Staff

Welcome back to Term 3! I hope everyone had a restful and rejuvenating break, ready to dive into the exciting new term ahead. To our new staff and students, a warm welcome to our school community. We are thrilled to have you join us and look forward to partnering with you.

As we begin this new term, I want to take a moment to address an important topic: online safety for our children. In today's digital age, our students are growing up surrounded by technology that offers both incredible opportunities and potential risks. As educators and parents, it is our responsibility to guide them in navigating this complex landscape safely and responsibly. The eSafety commission has a range of free online resources for parents https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents and children https://www.esafety.gov.au/kids to help us.

I highly recommend Daniel Sih's insightful book, Raising Tech-Healthy Humans. Sih emphasises the importance of helping children develop healthy relationships with technology, promoting a balanced approach that combines the benefits of digital tools with the necessity of real-world interactions.

Here are a few key takeaways from the book that I believe are particularly relevant for our community:

Life Giving Limits: Just as we set boundaries in other areas of life, it is crucial to establish clear guidelines for technology use. This includes setting limits on screen time, encouraging regular breaks, and designating tech-free zones, such as the dinner table or bedrooms.
Promoting Digital Literacy: Educating our children about the potential dangers online, such as cyberbullying, privacy issues and inappropriate content, is essential. Equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the internet safely empowers them to make informed decisions.
Encouraging Offline Activities: While technology can be a valuable educational tool, it is equally important to encourage activities that do not involve screens. Outdoor play, reading books and engaging in hobbies help children develop a well-rounded skill set and foster creativity.
Leading by Example: As adults, we must model healthy tech habits. Our children learn from our behavior, so it is important to demonstrate balanced technology use and prioritise face-to-face interactions.

By fostering an environment that prioritises online safety and digital well-being, we can help our students thrive both academically and personally. As we move through Term 3, let's work together to support our children in developing the skills they need to navigate the digital world with wisdom and integrity. If you don’t have a copy of Daniel Sih’s book and would like one, please email Renae Brandsema at r.brandsema@leighland.tas.edu.au and she will organise a copy for you.

Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication to our school's mission. Together we can equip our young people to connect learning to life. I look forward to a fantastic term filled with growth, learning and meaningful connections.

Blessings

Dr Katrina McNab

Ulverstone Campus Principal