But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way. —1 Corinthians 14:40

I started our Monday morning staff briefing with “Welcome to week five…” I did not mean anything by it other than just using the phrase to begin the meeting and get on with what we needed to cover. It was amusing to see the murmur of surprise rustle around the teachers gathered as it dawned on everyone that we were nearly halfway through the ten-week term already.

As we continue to see 2020 unfold, and we support our students with their learning, dealing with internet safety and device use issues are part of our planning. The Australian parenting website raisingchildren.net.au brings a sense of reason to the debates we hear raging around us. The writers remind us, “Screen time and screen use are a normal part of life for most children and teenagers. The time your child spends watching television and using computers, gaming consoles, tablets and smartphones can be part of a healthy lifestyle.”

“It’s all about making sure of two things. Firstly the raising children site suggests children enjoy lots of healthy, fun activities, both with and without screens, including physical activity, reading, creative play and social time with family and friends.” Then they say, “when children do use screens, they watch or use quality content.”

I value the checklist provided for families to examine if a healthy approach to screen time has been achieved.

“These questions can help you check whether your child is using screens in a balanced and healthy way. Is your child:

• Sleeping enough?

• Physically healthy?

• Engaged with school?

• Connecting socially with family and friends, online and offline? 

• Enjoying a variety of hobbies and interests? 

• Having fun and learning while using screens? 

• Using quality content?

If you answer yes to most or all of these questions, your child is probably using screens in a balanced way as part of a healthy lifestyle.” I hope you find this useful.

I also heartily recommend the Digital Parenting Event hosted by the School Council of Northern Christian School (this event is to be held at Northern Christian School). Details are below.

Scott Winkler - Principal

I think about Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs model each time I have a new class. The premise of this model is that in order for students to be successful with their learning their basic needs have to be met. One of the ways we meet students peer relationship needs, is with the Grade 5/6 and Grade 3 Reading Buddy Program.

I feel blessed and privileged to be teaching this year’s Grade 3 class. They have embraced changes and have settled in well to new class routines and structures.

Kath Lyall - Grade 3 Teacher

Digital Parenting

We’re partnering with Northern Christian School to offer this information session to school parents and friends.

Come and hear guest speaker, Daniel Sih, provide insights on how to raise healthy pre-teens in the digital age. He'll be answering questions like;

• When should I get my child a smartphone?

• How do I guide their digital habits?

• What can I do to help them enjoy life away from a screen?

• And lots more!

Daniel has 15 years of experience working in senior leadership and strategic consulting roles across Australia and the UK. This event is an initiative of Northern Christian School Council and supper is provided. We'd love to see you there!

The event will be held from 7.00pm - 9.15pm on Tuesday April 7 at Northern Christian School. Please contact us for more information.

Subway Lunch Friday March 6

Please Note Changes for Subway

• Cost - $6.50

• Juice only - $3.00

• No cookies

• Only order what is on envelope

Envelopes will be sent home Wednesday to be returned to the office on Thursday morning. Envelopes are collected by Subway at 10.00am. Please remember that the school office and Subway do not give change. Correct money only in envelopes please.