The Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri announced that two educational sessions will be held aimed at parents of children attending primary schools in Gozo, with the aim of providing knowledge and guidance on the use of technology and social media in raising children. Minister Camilleri stated that, “In an increasingly digital world, it is essential that parents are given the necessary tools and knowledge to guide their children responsibly. These sessions represent an important step in addressing the new realities that families are facing, while promoting a healthy balance between technology and child development.” These sessions are being organised in collaboration with the Smartphone Free Childhood Gozo (SFC Gozo) initiative, a group of parents from Gozo who have come together to support each other in the challenges of the digital age. The main aim of the group is to encourage parents to inform themselves and prepare their children before they are given personal smartphones or exposed to social media. One of the Founders of Smartphone Free Childhood Gozo Elaine Pavia Grima explained that the group is promoting early education on the negative effects and risks of uncontrolled use of technology. Through this initiative, parents share experiences, ideas and solutions, while organising educational activities and sessions to raise awareness. Smartphone Free Childhood Gozo started with a small group of six parents in January last year and has grown substantially, driven by the experiences of other parents and recommendations from international research suggesting that the introduction of smartphones should be postponed as much as possible. The initiative also seeks to reduce social pressure on both parents and children. The sessions, themed “Supporting Parents in the New Digital Era”, will address various topics related to child development and technology, including how excessive use of electronic devices can affect children’s brain development, how the brain works and functions, and how parents can introduce balance in screen use and better understand the difference between technology and social media. They will be led by Dr Erika Galea, a neuroscientist, who will share her knowledge and experience in the field, while providing practical advice to parents. These will be held on Wednesday 15th April and Saturday 18th April, between 9:00am and 11:30am, at the Sir Arturo Mercieca Primary School Hall, Rabat, Gozo. The Saturday session will be a repeat of the same content so that parents have more flexibility to attend. Participation is free of charge and open to all parents of children attending primary schools, both state and church. Parents are encouraged to register in advance at https://wkf.ms/4s4O7tG. Attendees will be given a free copy of the book “The Amazing Generation”. Photos: MGP
