Year 7 commenced their Esmart Digital Licence+ program this week, a program designed to help keep children free from harm online. We first wrote about this program in our last College newsletter and as promised we will share with you information in support of the program so that we can work together as a community in promoting the safe use of technology.

Help your child achieve a healthy balance in their online and offline activities

One of the units in this program focuses on balancing technology use. Balancing our use of technology is important for our health, wellbeing and lifestyle, and it looks different for everyone. A useful website for all things regarding digital safety is the eSafetyCommissioner’s website. The following information is from this website, and it supports the content your son’s are engaging with in the Esmart Digital Licence+ program.

Signs to watch for

Signs that your child’s online activity may be having a negative impact on them or on your family include:

• less interest in social activities like meeting friends or playing sport
• not doing so well at school
• tiredness, sleep disturbance, headaches, eye strain
• changes in eating patterns
• reduced personal hygiene
• obsession with particular websites or games
• extreme anger when being asked to take a break from online activity
• appearing anxious or irritable when away from the computer
• becoming withdrawn from friends and family

What to do if you are concerned

Ask questions and listen

• Some of the behavioural changes described above are a normal part of growing up but, if you are concerned your child is struggling, try to find out why — there may be underlying issues such as cyberbullying, friendship difficulties or mental health issues.
• As part of your conversation, ask your child about how much time they spend online and explain why it is worrying and what they could be missing out on.
• Try not to show that you disapprove or they might shut down communication altogether.
• Talking to your child’s school may also reveal academic or social issues, and the school may also be able to provide support.

Ms Lourdes Ndaira
Teacher Librarian

Mrs Jodie Hughes
Director of Pastoral Care

Mr Frank Sirianni
Director of Technologies & Innovation