Dear Parents,
I hope this message finds you well. As we progress through the second semester, I want to take a moment to talk about the role of technology in our children’s daily lives—specifically electronic devices and social media. Many countries worldwide—including France, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, the Netherlands, and Japan, and others—have implemented regulations to balance technology use with children’s healthy growth and academic focus. The Ministry of Education in China has also issued guidelines emphasizing rational mobile phone use, self-management, and the critical role of parents in guiding children’s digital habits.
After long breaks, some students may struggle with device overuse. To support responsible habits, I’d like to revisit the XLIS Information Technology Acceptable Use Policy. Students signed this policy upon enrollment, so no additional signature is required—just a review of the content. Here are some key points. For more details, please refer to the attachment.
Section 6. School Rules on Device Usage
6.2 Non-academic game playing, downloading, and video streaming are prohibited unless explicitly allowed by a member of the teaching and administrative staff.
6.3 Social Media use is not permitted in school by students.
6.10 Computer and video games are not permitted in the classroom or during study time, unless explicitly told by a member of staff.
Section 7. AI Usage
7.1 Use AI tools appropriately, ensuring that all AI-generated content is properly referenced and does not contain plagiarized work.
7.2 AI should be used to enhance learning and creativity, not to replace original student work.
7.4 Be transparent about the use of AI in any assignments, projects, or schoolwork, including a clear statement about how AI was used and any sources it relied upon.
Section 8. Digital Well-being
8.1 Take regular breaks from screen time to avoid digital fatigue.
8.2 Balance online and offline activities to maintain overall well-being.
8.3 Engage in healthy digital habits, such as setting boundaries for technology use and ensuring a good posture while using devices.
Now, I’d like to offer some following parental tips to support healthy technology habits.
Early Years & Primary (Early Years – PYP6):
- No personal devices are needed at school. If required, teachers will provide iPads for learning activities.
- I strongly discourage giving young students personal devices(such as cell phones, and smartwatches) or social media accounts.
- If online learning tools (such as Raz-Kids, IXL, etc.) are needed, daily usage should be limited to 30 minutes to ensure a healthy balance.
- Encourage real-world engagement through physical activities, reading, and offline play.
Secondary (MYP1 – DP2):
- Phones must be handed to homeroom teachers at the start of the day and returned after school. If students need to contact family in emergencies, they may do so with the teacher’s permission.
- Starting MYP1 Term 2, students can bring laptops, mainly for design, art, research, testing, and online assessments.
- Device use should primarily support learning and extracurricular activities that enhance education.
- At home, create distinct spaces for study and relaxation. Encourage students to use electronic devices only in designated learning areas to build healthy habits from an early stage. Electronic devices should not be brought into the bedroom to ensure healthy sleep habits.
- Students under 14 (MYP1 – MYP3) are encouraged to stay off social media. Parents should set clear boundaries to prevent distractions and emotional distress.
- Older students (MYP4 – DP2) may use social media responsibly, but we urge parents to monitor their child’s online presence, encourage positive digital engagement, and discuss the risks of excessive use.
Working Together for Healthy Technology Habits
Studies show that heavy screen time may lead to children’s abnormal brain development. Beyond physical concerns, research has also linked excessive screen time to cognitive issues, including worsening mental health, executive functioning challenges, depression, and anxiety.
I understand that navigating technology use in today’s world can be challenging. However, with your support, we can ensure that our students use digital tools in ways that benefit their education and personal growth. As parents, you set the tone for healthy technology habits. Leading by example—such as limiting screen time during family activities—can help children develop a balanced relationship with technology.
Together, we can create a learning environment where technology enhances education while protecting students’ well-being. Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and commitment to your child’s growth!
Best regards,
Lily Liu
Head of XLIS
Email: lily.liu@xalis.com
WeChat: lily6_sunshine
February 18th, 2025
