The Internet has revolutionised the way we exchange ideas, communicate, learn from one another and coordinate collective action. Today's generation of children and adolescents are growing up immersed in media. This includes platforms that allow users to both consume and create content, including broadcast and streamed television and movies, sedentary and active video games, social and interactive media that can be creative and engaging, and even highly immersive virtual reality.
When used effectively an iPad is an excellent stimulus and tool to extend and consolidate learning. Our job as teachers and parents is to harness the opportunities digital technology makes possible while at the same time mitigating its harmful effects.
The Junior School ‘Online Safety Day’ on 3rd October provided an opportunity for pupils, parents and teachers to understand and reflect upon the concerns we have surrounding online safety. It became evident that our children use online devices and access social networking much more than the average pupil globally. One common theme raised by parents was limiting the amount of time that children spend on their devices. This is a very real concern and it is important that we balance screen time with time spent socialising, reading, studying, playing and having fun.
In mid-September Apple launched its iOS 12 update. This update includes a Screen Time feature. This new feature provides parents with tools to monitor and control their child’s device usage. Many parents at BISC have already begun to utilise the Screen Time feature effectively. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9Q-_Fhifxg
The following information has been taken from the American Academy of Pediatrics and Apple Support. It provides guidance on how to set up appropriate controls. Please note that you must update devices to iOS 12 to enable access to controls through the settings menu.
Junior School Assistant Head, Pastoral
Designate media-free times together, such as dinner or driving, as well as media-free locations at home, such as bedrooms. Have ongoing communication about online citizenship and safety, including treating others with respect both online and offline.