Principal Reflections

Dear Parents and Carers,

Screen Time

As we navigate an increasingly digital world, the topic of screen time for our children is more important than ever. It's easy to focus solely on the amount of time children spend in front of a screen, but the quality of what they are doing online and your involvement as a parent are equally crucial. The right amount of screen time can vary depending on factors like your child's age, maturity, learning needs, and your family routine. We encourage you to consider your child's screen use within the context of their overall health and wellbeing. Ask yourself if online time is interfering with their sleep, exercise, or face-to-face connections with family and friends. The answers to these questions will help you find the right balance of online and offline activities for your child.

To help foster healthy screen habits, we encourage you to be actively involved in your child's online experiences. Sharing screen time and online activities like gaming can help you gauge the appropriateness of content and manage potential risks, while also opening up conversations about their online world. It's also beneficial to work with your child to set clear boundaries for screen use. If you decide on screen time limits, discuss these rules together, as older children are more likely to cooperate when they've been part of the decision-making process. Being clear and consistent about the consequences for not adhering to these rules is paramount.

Finally, leading by example and establishing clear expectations are vital. Consider setting device-free zones and times at home, such as no devices in bedrooms for younger children, all screens off in bedrooms after a certain time for older children, and all screens off at least one hour before bedtime. Additionally, charging devices overnight in a place your child cannot access can be helpful. Encourage your child to explain why they want to use a screen, which helps them think about their own digital habits. Your behaviour is one of the most effective ways to help your child develop a positive digital mindset, so show them that you can put down your device too. By working together, we can help our students develop healthy digital habits for a balanced life.

Primary Learning Walk

On Monday we enjoyed offering a second Learning Walk at the Primary. Our student leaders led this event with ease and were able to share their knowledge and expertise around learning and teaching with our parent community. Here are some thoughts on the experience from our parents.

Thanks again for your support,

Keep smiling, 

Alison Hatton

(Principal)