Roadrunner Report

Many parents I talk with share that they are wrestling with screens in some way, whether it is too much YouTube, a group chat that has gotten out of hand, or a child asking for a first phone. A recent Wirecutter podcast on kids and technology offers some helpful perspectives. Its survey found that only 9% of parents strongly agree they can confidently manage their child's tech use. If you feel overwhelmed, you are in good company, and there is no need to feel guilty.

Here are a few ideas from the conversation that may help at home:

Decide what screens are for. Rather than just setting a time limit, ask what you actually want your child doing with their time. If your family values being outside, make sure that happens before screen time begins.

Choose quality and stay involved. Look for trusted content and apps, and consider checking ratings on a site like Common Sense Media. Watching or playing together makes screen time more valuable. Be cautious of games designed to keep kids playing or spending money.

Model what you want to see. Children notice how we use our own phones, so putting ours away when we expect them to be off their phones sends a strong message.

There is no magic age for a phone. Think about your child's maturity and whether they tend to lose things or make good choices. If you decide to go ahead, set clear expectations and coach them on texting manners, handling group chats, and what to do if they see or experience bullying.

Talk about tracking and parental controls. If you use location tracking, tell your child about it and explain why. Keep in mind that kids can often find ways around parental controls, so ongoing conversation matters more than any app.

Keep the conversation going. Ask your child how they feel after scrolling and why videos keep playing automatically. Those small talks now build habits that carry into the teen years.

Work together with other families. Parents who agree on shared expectations find it easier when their children do not feel singled out.

Helping children build healthy tech habits is not easy, and no one gets it perfect. Choose just one small change to try this week, then build from there. Over time, small steps add up to lasting habits.

Take good care of each other and have a peaceful and happy week,

Julie

Julie Schlueter, PhD

Principal

Looking forward…

• October 10: Fall Carnival

• October 16-23: Conference week- 1:05 dismissal

• October 22: PTO Meeting 6:00 p.m.

• October 26-30: Red Ribbon Week

• November 9th-20: Canned Food Drive

• November 11th: Veteran's Day Holiday

• November 23-27: Thanksgiving Break

We’re excited to share a new community nonprofit supporting our school garden and hands-on learning programs: Cultivated Classrooms.

Cultivated Classrooms helps schools create and sustain gardens where students learn about growing food, healthy eating, and the environment through hands-on experiences.

Learn more or get involved at cultivatedclassrooms.org

Thank you for supporting our school community!