Those of you who know me know I am firmly in favour of healthy technology use among adults and our kids. I am also one who is an advocate for thoughtful technology exposure for our children. Our world has changed significantly in the last couple of years, and we are all wanting to do our best to help our kids and our families adapt and move into our somewhat “adjusted” society post covid.

I thought you might be interested in an article I read this week that tapped into a Camp Australia study that referenced information from a survey of 130 principals and 150 families from across Australia about what were key concerns. The lockdown challenges of the last couple of years have definitely impacted the lifestyle habits of many of us, especially our children. I think it is important that we look at how our kids interact with technology and have the courage to make changes if needed to best support our families, while enjoying the benefits of technology. I hope you find the article helpful.

"Excessive screen time and a decline in emotional stability are among principals' top concerns for their students in 2023, according to new research.

This year's Child Impact Survey from Camp Australia drew insight from 130 principals and over 5,000 families in Australia.

It found that in the aftermath of lockdowns and Covid-19, children appeared be more easily overwhelmed, anxious and sensitive.

Almost one quarter of parents reported that their children's emotional patterns had worsened in 2022, with 62 per cent of principals sharing similar concerns.

Parenting expert Dr Justin Coulson said the results indicate lingering negative effects of the pandemic on children. "When children have too much unproductive screen time or avoid making new friends they can be at increased risk of mental ill-health including experiencing social difficulties, poor academic results and even developing physical health concerns," Dr Coulson said.

"While we can't entirely avoid the use of screens in our work and study lives, we need to be aware children are growing up with new ways of working where technology is universal. This is all the more reason to develop a healthy relationship with technology and socialising offline as early as possible to counteract these impacts and become more resilient in the long term."

The survey, which was conducted December and is now in its third year, found over 40 per cent of parents were concerned about children's screen time and its effects on socialisation.

Furthermore, one in five school leaders said too much screen time and problems making new friends were significant issues facing students.

CEO of Camp Australia Warren Jacobson said kids' sense of disconnection and isolation needs to be addressed into the 2023 school year.

"We know socialisation skills are critical for all aspects of a child's growth, but these insights reveal excessive time in front of screens continues, and children are more erratic and feel less connected despite the end of lockdowns," said Jacobson.

"Whilst concern was expressed regarding unproductive screen time, the survey outcomes also raise the issue of e-safety and the influence of social media on children and whether they are educated to deal with this.

Providing opportunities for social interaction outside the structure of learning in the classroom is one of the ways we can help address these concerns." (Campbell, 2023)

Have a great week with your kids.

Mark B