Good Afternoon Parents Students, Staff and Friends of Derinya,

Inform and Empower

Our recent parent information session on supporting children in today's digital world was a highly valuable opportunity for all who were able to attend. The evening provided valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges that technology presents for young people and highlighted the important role we all play in helping children navigate the online environment safely and confidently.

One of the key messages from the session was that technology is now woven into almost every aspect of our children's lives. From gaming platforms such as Roblox to social media and emerging artificial intelligence tools including ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok and Character.ai, children are engaging with digital spaces in increasingly complex ways. While these platforms can offer creativity, learning and connection, they also require careful supervision and ongoing conversations between children and trusted adults.

The session explored several important topics, including online predators, cyberbullying, fake profiles, doxing, exposure to inappropriate content, and the growing influence of AI-powered companion applications. We discussed how vulnerable children can sometimes seek connection through online platforms and why maintaining strong relationships with trusted adults is more important than ever.

A strong theme throughout the evening was the importance of parenting through connection rather than fear. Parents were encouraged to be curious, not furious, when concerns arise and to create opportunities for open, non-judgemental conversations. Children are far more likely to seek help when they know they will be listened to, supported and guided.

Families were encouraged to develop a simple Digital Family Plan that outlines:

What games, apps and websites are appropriate
Where devices can be used
When devices should be switched off, particularly before bedtime
How much screen time is suitable for their child and family circumstances

We were reminded that there is no "magic number" when it comes to screen time. Instead, the focus should be on balancing screen use with "green time", opportunities for reading, physical activity, social connection, outdoor play, creativity and unstructured downtime.

Perhaps the most powerful takeaway was the importance of ensuring every child has trusted adults they can turn to. Children need to know:

I can help you.
I will love and support you no matter what.
I will not automatically take your device away if you come to me with a problem.

Practical strategies discussed included using parental controls such as Apple Screen Time and Android Family Link, exploring built-in safety settings on gaming consoles, creating child profiles on YouTube and Smart TVs, and considering home internet filtering tools.

The session also highlighted several excellent resources for families, including the online safety resource Jack Changes the Game.

As a school, we are committed to working in partnership with families to help our students develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive in both the digital and real worlds. Thank you for your ongoing support as we navigate these important conversations together.

Raising Kids in a Digital World | Inform & Empower | Cyber Safety & Wellbeing for Primary Schools

Semester Reports

You will receive your child’s semester report in the final week of term. Please note that in line with the current industrial action, student reports will not include individual comments this time around. Progression points, effort and behaviour and the content your child has been studying will be included.

Traffic Safety

I would like to remind all families that the management of our traffic before and after school is heavily reliant on the support of our drivers to be cautious and safe as they approach and leave the school. We have once again experienced a near miss and ensuring all students are safe as they travel to and from school.

Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend ahead.

Nadine Pye on behalf of the Derinya Family.

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