Near the end of last term and start of this term we are noticing the impact of children spending too much time on devices. We understand that this is a constant challenge and the competing interests of gaming, social media, you tube etc with everyday life. The short narrative is that too much time on devices impacts learning. 

Some of the areas we notice that are being negatively impacted are:

- Willingness and ability to cooperate and share with friends

- Concentration levels

- Inconsistencies with mood and emotions

- Impact on friendships

- Tiredness

- Stifles their thinking (it over occupies their thought process - can't think of any other activity)

We understand that the weather is not helpful. However, we would ask that children only spend a very limited amount of time (no more than 30 minutes per day) on a device as possible during the week at home, and a controlled limited amount of time during the weekends. 

In addition we do not feel that children need to be using social media to communicate during the week. We know the Kid Messenger has become a popular tool for communication amongst children. Having a healthy amount of time away from their friends actually supports and helps build friendships. 

Finally, Tik Tok is a highly popular app that many children are using. Please know this is a form of social media and presents the same risks to children as all other social media apps. In addition, it has the same legal restrictions. Users must be 12+ years old. Below is a link to an infographic with more information about Tik Tok, we will also be sending a paper copy home with your child today.

https://nationalonlinesafety.com/guides/what-parents-need-to-know-about-tiktok

Thanks for your support with this.