School Nurse -

Carla Lang 

Spring Has Sprung 

The sun is shining and Spring is finally upon us. These school holidays is a great opportunity to dust off the winter cobwebs and get out and about in the fresh air. For many, getting the kids away from screens can be difficult especially in winter when the weather is wet and cold, so these school holidays is the perfect time to break a habit.   The use of screen in children can have many benefits but the growing awareness of the negative side of screens is becoming more well know.  So how do you find a balance these holidays of physical activity and screen time.

First and foremost – be a positive role model for physical activity

You are your child’s most important role model. You can help your child be active by being a good role model and sending positive messages about being physically active.

Role-modelling tips

• Be active yourself – your child will notice and be more likely to follow your lead.

• Make time to have fun playing actively with your child – it’s great to find something you both enjoy doing.

• Give your child praise and encouragement for participating in physical activity.

• Support your child when they’re learning something new. 

• Practise physical activities with your child 

You can use screen time and digital technology to encourage physical activity. For example, choose games or apps that get your child to move, like dancing games or virtual sports simulators. Use a digital map to plan a walk to the shops or a bushwalk. Or video your child learning a new physical skill.

Healthy screen time is about what you use screens for, when you use them, who you use them with, and how long you use them for. Children develop healthy habits when they see you using digital technology in healthy ways.

Send powerful messages about digital technology by having regular screen-free time and using screens in positive ways.  When you’re with your child, focus on engaging with your child and minimise distractions like your phone.

Struggling with ideas? 

How long since you have been out about in the local area and explored the following: Mt Korong, Old Eucalyptus Still, Hard Hill Tourist Reserve or the Lonely Grave, Road a bike on the trails behind the school or taken a walk and found all the Birds Eye Murals?

Why not pack a picnic or pick up coffee and cake from the local Café or supermarket and head out to explore.  You never know what you may see, find, learn or discover. 

The following link takes you to a comprehensive list of things to do in and around Wedderburn and Inglewood. It’s full of ideas to help you get out and about these holidays. 

https://wedderburn.vic.au/things-to-do

https://inglewood.vic.au/things-to-do

Enjoy these school holidays, stay safe, have fun and come back feeling refreshed and ready for the final term.    Carla (School Nurse) 

Resources:  Raising Children Network, Loddon Visitor Information Centre. 

Carla Lang

Secondary School Nurse