CMS Launch Points

Monday 6/9 — French Toast Sticks

Tuesday 6/10 — Spaghetti & Meatballs

Wednesday 6/11 — Chicken Nuggets

Thursday 6/12 — Turkey Nachos

Friday 6/13 — Carini’s Pizza

The PTC sells Ice Cream Sandwiches every Wednesday during both lunches for $1.00 (options are available for those with milk allergies).

• CONGRATULATIONS! to our Bike, Walk and Roll to CMS Raffle winners: Kenni Cramer, Lucas Ruffo and Natasha Vinokurova.

This week's perspective comes from Catherine Steiner-Adair's book The Big Disconnect. The author emphasizes that today's parents face unprecedented challenges in raising children in a digital world where the boundaries between school, social life, and entertainment have become increasingly blurred. Finding balance requires intentional strategies rather than simply limiting access. Some essential considerations include:

• The digital world is here to stay—avoidance isn't a viable long-term strategy. Rather than focusing exclusively on restriction, parents should emphasize teaching responsible usage, critical thinking, and digital citizenship.

• Different types of screen time have different impacts. Research suggests that creative or educational content has more positive effects than passive consumption, and that social media tends to have the strongest correlation with negative outcomes.

• Create tech-free zones and times in your home. Many families find success with "no phones at meals" policies or designating bedrooms as screen-free areas to promote better sleep hygiene.

• Use parental controls as training wheels, not permanent solutions. While filters and time limits can be helpful for younger children, the ultimate goal is to develop internal self-regulation skills rather than relying on external restrictions.

• Teach critical evaluation of online content by regularly discussing what children encounter. Questions like "How do you know this information is true?" or "What might be the motivation behind this post?"

• Model healthy tech habits yourself. Children notice when parents are constantly checking phones or bringing devices to the dinner table. Your example speaks louder than any rules you create.

• Discuss digital footprints early and often. Help children understand that online actions create a permanent record that can impact future opportunities, including college admissions and employment.

• Remember that the goal isn't perfect protection but rather resilience and good judgment. Occasional mistakes provide valuable learning opportunities when approached with curiosity rather than shame.
  
  

Question of the Week: What is one aspect of your family's current technology use that you'd like to improve?

Parents, we'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Share your perspective by going to: https://forms.gle/vm1mWZnFse8gGXRZ7