Dear Editor:
RE: School boards, public health help youth make healthy choices around technology, substances, Oct. 30.
Choices Rewired is a new campaign organized by Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, Upper Grand District School Board and Wellington Catholic District School Board aimed to help parents and guardians in supporting their children’s proper use of technology and substances.
As a student currently in Grade 12, I love this initiative. It is important for guardians and parents to have open and honest communication with their children. Sometimes the necessary conversations can be difficult and uncomfortable.
The statistics provided in this article are concerning and should produce an urgency for parents and guardians to engage with these tough topics in their everyday conversations with their children. These discussions are made easier through Choices Rewired.
As youth look forward to post-secondary life, it is extremely important for parents and guardians to teach their children invaluable life skills. Boundaries, proper use of technology and substances, and initiative in personal health are priceless qualities in all walks of life. I recommend that Choices Rewired publish and advertise their content directly to students themselves. Students should be informed of the dangers of technology and substance abuse, but equally to the benefits of boundaries and healthy choices.
With this information, students can support each other, further promoting a compassionate and connected community.
Loraya Westrik,
Guelph