Andrew Watt – Principal

The joys and challenges of online gaming

In High School Assembly this week, our students were challenged to reflect on whether they were maintaining a balanced lifestyle, particularly in relation to their time spent on social media and online gaming.

Are these online games simply a minor distraction, or should parents be watchful for signs that indicate a growing psychological dependence? Do we need to be worried about online predators or cyberbullying? Are we aware of who our students are interacting with online? In recent years a plethora of online strategic multi-player games, or games that allow the creation of a virtual world have captured the hearts and minds of our young people. According to the eSafety Commissioner:

• 89% of Australian children aged 8 to 17 have played an online game in the last year.
• 94% of young gamers had ‘positive feelings’ when they were gaming online.
• 79% have played a multiplayer online game with others.
• 40% have played online with people they did not know offline.
• 32% have experienced bullying or abuse while playing a network game with others.

Fortnite, Minecraft and Call of Duty are the most recent and much-loved games in a global phenomenon that has swept through our teen culture. If allowed, many young people will spend countless hours online, battling and gaming with their friends. For some people, their friendships gravitate to only online, and they may lose physical contact with their friends, becoming increasingly isolated.

For many of our students online gaming is one of many recreational pursuits that helps them relax, compete and communicate with friends online. Gaming can yield many positive outcomes if the time spent online is balanced with socialising face to face, completing homework, engaging in family events and exercising. However, for some of our students, online gaming becomes a distraction that will impact their sleep, their academic results,  their friendships and their mood. For a very small group of young people, online gaming becomes an obsession. Gaming Disorder is defined “by impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other activities to the extent that gaming takes precedence over other interests and daily activities, and continuation or escalation of gaming despite the occurrence of negative consequences.” It is important to note that this behaviour pattern has lasted at least 12 months and has resulted in difficulties with family, friends, socialising, education and other areas of functioning.

According to Dr Elizabeth Milovidov, Digital Parenting Expert, parents can determine if their child might be struggling by asking the following questions:

• Is my child physically healthy and sleeping enough?
• Is my child connecting socially with family and friends (in any form)?
• Is my child engaged with and achieving in school?
• Is my child pursuing interests and hobbies (in any form)?
• Is my child having fun and learning in their use of digital media?

If the answers are no, then  parents and children may need to put in place regulations and restrictions in order to address problematic use. Steps may need to be taken to put in place screen balance guidelines and seek support in carrying out a ‘digital detox’. Parents can find creative ways to allow games and tech time, balanced with outdoor or creative non-tech activities and ensure that games are age-appropriate and content-appropriate. Parents can also note how their child interacts with their devices and games (aggressive, irritable, may mean that less screen time is needed).

Communication overload – we have a solution

In my update last week I alluded to the many positive benefits of TASS, including the long-awaited streamlining of communication. We understand how overwhelming it can be to receive so many emails from the School, from granting permissions for excursions to information about coming events, BBQ days, policies, trips and even our beloved Ma Nishma.

In the next few months, we will be launching a user-friendly app. Much of what is currently emailed will be communicated through this app. You will receive notifications (as you would with WhatsApp, text or Messenger) when there is an actionable item or other communication from the School. Finally, freedom from email overload! We’ll share more information about the mobile app next term. In the meantime, bear with us and know that your voices are being heard.

Shavua Ivrit: Hebrew Week

This week was more than just a celebration, it was an opportunity to embrace and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Israel, right here on our campus. Whether you were decorating pebbles, tasting the flavours of Israeli cuisine, or dancing your heart out, there was something for everyone to enjoy. With Hebrew songs playing as our school bells and a House Assembly Hebrew competition, it was a special week. A detailed account of each day’s activities can be found in the article titled ‘Hebrew Week’. 

Quote of the week

“Israel was not created in order to disappear – Israel will endure and flourish. It is the child of hope and the home of the brave. It can neither be broken by adversity nor demoralized by success. It carries the shield of democracy and it honors the sword of freedom.” ~ John F Kennedy, 35th President of the United States of America