Dear Parents,

Last week I watched a documentary on Netflix called The Social Dilemma.  I urge all parents to watch this with your children, especially those in Years 5-6, or any who have access to their own devices.  There are a number of interviews with either the creators or employees of some of the major social media sites, such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, as well as dramatized scenarios that address the major concerns for young people in relation to social media.  As a parent of an 11 year old, the information presented in the documentary was extremely concerning especially around issues such as:

• Online bullying and harassment
• Mental health difficulties including depression
• Social isolation

Social media can be extremely positive, as it allows us to connect with important people in our lives, that may be separated from us geographically.  However, we all need to ensure that we use it appropriately.  Almost all social media sites have a minimum age of 13 years, yet many of our students, some as young as Year 4, already have social media accounts. 

We have been contacted by many parents about inappropriate behaviour that occur on social media, after school hours.  I have contacted the Police Liaison Education Officer, who has confirmed that issues that arise outside school hours, fall under parental responsibility. 

Next term we are hopeful to have some in-school presentations by the Police Liaison Education Officer for students in Years 5 & 6. More information will be sent next term.

I wish you a restful school holiday break.