Young people today are heavily reliant on online platforms and the use of social media to stay connected with their peers. This dramatic increase in the use of technology in this way has many benefits but also challenges. To support our students to make good choices online, our Year 7-9 students have been completing their eSmart Digital Licence as part of our Pastoral program. The eSmart Digital Licence, which is supported by the Alannah and Madeline Foundation, includes modules such as: The Best Offence is Kindness, Building Your Shield, and Having a Digital Heart. This program also supports the many conversations we have with our students about the importance of being kind and respectful in their communication, whether it be online or face to face.
Navigating this space can also be challenging for our parents and guardians. Please find below a number of websites from various professionals we have worked with that also provide support for families:
https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents
https://www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au/parents/
https://jocelynbrewer.com/digital-nutrition/
A number of podcasts also tackle this topic and provide support for all those working with young people to make good choices online. Some of these include:
- Happy Families hosted by Doctor Justin Coulson
- Parental As Anything hosted by teen educator and author Rebecca Sparrow
Save the Date: Tuesday October 29
In Term 4, we will be having a Parent Night hosted by Dr Judith Locke. Judith is a clinical psychologist, author and former teacher who presents child wellbeing sessions to parents and schools. We look forward to her working with our school community. To find out more about Judith’s work, please follow the link below: