“It takes a village to raise a child” – Anon

The proverb above suggests that to successfully raise a child, it requires the input, support and influence of their entire community, not just their parents or caregivers. Certainly true as children do not come with a manual and we undoubtedly seek advice, assistance and guidance from those we trust.

The generations that are and becoming parents now, see a world that is vastly different from their childhood in many ways. Different again for those that raised them, and it can be very hard to keep up. For the Alphas, the current generation of children, they are not complete without a screen of some sort. Gone are the days of parents trying to get their children to come back inside, it’s now a chore to get them outside in the first place.

From a health perspective this “technology addiction” has seen an increase in physical issues such as Musculo-skeletal injuries, postural and vision deterioration, and mental health issues such as social anxiety and behavioural or developmental challenges.

Our children are heavily influenced by social media and often judged by their social media presence or knowledge, sometimes leading to unhealthy idealisms, comparisons
and/or perfectionism.

So, what happens when “the village”, a once tangible, and selectively accessible community becomes a globally and unknown one? Suddenly what influences, supports and guides our younger minds, is less tangible, visible and less within our control.

Though there are many positives of technological advancement and online social platforms, one of the biggest side-effects has been the increase in the opportunity for bullying. No longer just in the school yard, the cyber world has provided a wider, larger audience for this behaviour, and it has had tragic outcomes.

In Australia, Cyber-Bullying is responsible for at least three suicides per week, making it the highest cause of death in our youth population. A very real and ever-growing concern.

If you have any concerns about your child, see your School Counsellor or seek advice from your GP, particularly if there are mental or physical signs.

August is home to “No Way Week”, with schools putting a bigger spotlight on education and communication about bullying, and promoting positive change to the way our children treat each other. Encourage your local school to get on board and be sure to read the information via the link on this page.

For parents and carers, the best we can do is have a positive relationship with our child/ren, where open, honest communication is promoted in a safe, healthy and trusted environment.

As for our “villages”, we can only ask them to do and hope they perpetuate the same.

Because to bullying we say – NO WAY!

Stay Well,

Corinne G.

Bullying No Way: National week of action

11-15 August 2025

Be Bold. Be Kind. Speak Up.

It takes courage to spark change. Bullying
is everyone’s responsibility and it takes

a community to address bullying behaviours.

Students can be bold, kind and take a stand to support others being bullied. Adults, parents & teachers are there to support our kids how to behave in a positive way. Bullying No Way Week is asking everyone in the community to be be bold and say something, be kind and support someone, and be proud to take a stand against bullying.

Register today at: bullyingnoway.gov.au

Loneliness Awareness Week

4-10 August, 2025

You don’t need a best friend, lifelong mate or big crew to feel less lonely. Making friends or forming connections takes time and effort, but it often starts with a small moment. An awkward hello, a chance encounter, an act of kindness, a compliment, a shared experience or interest or even a funny story – these small but
meaningful interactions matter. They spark
conversation and help us feel seen and valued.

This Loneliness Awareness Week we’re sharing real moments that help young people connect and inviting all Australians to make moments matter at home, work, school, online and in the community.

For further details: endingloneliness.com.au

Wear It Purple Day 2025

Friday 29 August

This annual event focuses on supporting LGBTQIA+ youth by promoting acceptance, inclusivity, and visibility. The theme for this year’s event is & Bold Voices, Bright Futures’, emphasizing the importance of amplifying the voices and experiences of LGBTQIA+ youth and also encouraging communities to listen to and support them. So wear your brightest purple and be sure to advocate for and empower rainbow young people as it’s our young people who change the world and are at the core of everything we do.
For further details: wearitpurple.org