Digital Wellbeing Sessions (Year 5 & 6)
Screens are everywhere!
The conversation around digital use continues to grow, especially with social media now banned in Australia for those under 16. Research shows that digital devices and excessive screen use can cause harms similar to those associated with alcohol and other drugs, negatively affecting young people’s developing brains, bodies and mental wellbeing.
That’s why we’ve expanded into the space of Digital Wellbeing for upper primary students.
Parents and teachers alike have noticed changes in children when they use screens for prolonged periods of time. With more restrictions being introduced in households and changes to school policies, it can be difficult for children to keep up.
The Inclusions
Designed for Years 5 & 6, the student sessions explore how digital devices can negatively affect health. Students are given key strategies to help them build a more positive relationship with the technology they use daily and to make healthy choices for themselves.
Parent sessions encourage open conversations about screen‑time concerns, equip parents with practical strategies, and raise awareness of current Australian guidelines.
Staff and teachers are encouraged to attend both the student and parent sessions to better support students in the classroom and to strengthen the conversations they may already be having with families at home.
School bookings also include Student Activity Sheets and a Key Takeaways Flyer for parents and teachers.
Principal Testimonial
The Digital Wellbeing student session presented at Lobethal Luthern School was exceptional. Student engagement was immediate and sustained, with the content delivered in a way that was clear, relevant and deeply attuned to their world.
Feedback from both staff and students has been overwhelmingly positive. The session was described as impactful, thought-provoking and highly practical. Students felt both heard and challenged, leaving not only more aware, but better equipped to make wise and healthy decisions in their digital lives.
The presentation went beyond information delivery, addressing the whole person. It acknowledged the real pressures young people face while guiding them toward stronger identity, responsibility and discernment. It brought clarity and direction in an often noisy and overwhelming space.
The message aligned strongly with our school’s commitment to holistic formation—supporting students academically and emotionally. It encouraged purposeful living, wise decision-making and a posture that honours both self and others.
Delivery was authentic, engaging and grounded, striking a rare balance between relatability and authority that held student attention throughout.
The broader team demonstrated excellent communication, organisation and partnership, making the entire process seamless.
Overall, the impact was significant and will continue to extend well beyond the day itself.
Steph Richards, Principal Lobethal Lutheran School
Why Us?
Since 2000, Encounter Youth has provided Alcohol & Other Drug Education to students, parents and teachers. We are the largest provider of Alcohol & Other Drug Education in South Australian secondary schools, educating 30,000 young people, parents and teachers each year.
With this experience, we understand how young people perceive risk, how their bodies and brains are still developing, and how navigating social norms can be challenging. We also understand how digital devices and excessive screen use can inflict similar harms to those associated with alcohol and other drugs.
Our holistic approach is positive, interactive, research‑based and aligned with the Australian Curriculum, and we plan to continue this approach in the Digital Wellbeing space for primary schools.
Book Today
Ready to book the sessions to ensure your Years 5 & 6 students are equipped for building a healthier, more positive relationship with the technology they use every day.