PLE Weekly Community Outreach
December 1, 2023
Thinking about Children and Cell Phones
Dear Families,
As educators dedicated to the holistic development of our students, it's important to discuss the role of technology, specifically cell phones, in the lives of elementary-aged children. Research continues to shed light on the effects of excessive screen time on young minds. We trust families to do what is right for them, and we offer the following about cell phones use.
1. Distraction and Academic Impact: Numerous studies have shown that the presence of cell phones during school hours can be a significant distraction for children. Their focus on learning may be compromised when they have access to devices that offer games, social media, and instant messaging. This distraction can impact their academic performance and overall learning experience.
2. Social and Emotional Development: Childhood is a crucial period for the development of social and emotional skills. Excessive screen time, particularly through social media, can sometimes hinder the development of face-to-face communication skills and the ability to build meaningful relationships. Children may also experience increased anxiety and stress from constant connectivity.
3. Health and Well-being: The impact of screen time on physical health cannot be overlooked. Prolonged use of cell phones can lead to sedentary behavior, affecting children's physical health and contributing to issues such as obesity and poor posture. Moreover, excessive screen time has been associated with disrupted sleep patterns, affecting children's overall well-being.
Alternatives and Solutions: Encouraging children to leave their phones at home during school hours can foster a focused learning environment. If needed, children can use the school's main office phone to reach parents in case of emergencies or for necessary check-ins. Limiting screen time, engaging in outdoor activities, and promoting face-to-face interactions can positively impact their development.
As partners in your child's education, let's work together to ensure their well-being and academic success. Your support in guiding your child's technology usage is invaluable in fostering a balanced and healthy childhood.
Thank you for your continued partnership.
Principal Snookal
December
This year we will be learning about and practicing a new virtue each month as a school. We have also pre-scheduled all of our Social and Emotional Learning lessons to correlate with our virtue. We will let you know what the virtue and lesson are for each month.
December Virtue = Perseverance
December 2nd Step = Emotional Management
