LAC LA BICHE - Beginning this fall, students across Alberta will have to put their cell phones and personal devices away while in the classroom.
Parents in the Lac La Biche region who are wondering how this change will affect their families will be able to get their questions and concerns addressed during a discussion on the province’s new policy on Aug. 28 at the Bold Centre community hall from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
The event is being put on by Lac La Biche County Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), in conjunction with Lac La Biche County, Northern Lakes Family Resource Network, and the Leduc-based Institute of Child Psychology.
Amanda Cheyne, Young Families Program Supervisor for Lac La Biche County FCSS, says staff are looking forward to connecting with parents and caregivers for an open discussion regarding the new policy on cell phones and what this change might look like.
There are still many lingering questions as to how the new policy will be implemented, she continued, and staff wanted to provide some knowledge, skills, and resources to deal with the change.
“We hope to help bridge the gap between schools, parents and community resources by hosting this community conversation,” Cheyne told Lakeland This Week.
Cheyne explained that Tammy Schamuh, a registered psychologist and registered play therapist supervisor with the Institute of Child Psychology, will be speaking about the impact of screens on children and youth. Schamuh will also be talking about what parents and caregivers can do to protect the psychological well-being of youth.
“We know change of any kind can be difficult,” she said. “Although we are limited in our ability to predict the effects that these adjustments may have, FCSS believes that open communication and supporting families during times of change will bring the best outcome possible.”
Those who are interested in attending the discussion are asked to call the Bold Centre at (780) 623-3829 or stop by the front desk. The presentation is open to all community members, parents and professionals.
Supper will be served, and free childcare is available upon request.
