Dear 4th Graders,
We are students in 5th through 8th grade, and we’ve been learning about Digital Virtue and Internet safety at school. We wanted to share with you some tips that can help you use technology in a way that is safe, smart, and good for your heart and soul.
Technology is a powerful tool, but it’s important to use it in a way that keeps you close to God and your family. It can be helpful, but it can also become a distraction or even a danger if we’re not careful. That’s why it’s so important to use it with wisdom and self-control.
You might not have a phone yet—and that’s okay! In fact, it’s not the worst thing in the world. When you do get one, remember why you have it. Phones are mainly for communication: calling your family in an emergency, sending messages, checking directions, or looking up helpful information. They can also help you with simple things like setting alarms or managing your schedule.
But phones and tablets can also be very addictive. Sometimes, we don’t even notice how much time we’re spending on screens until it’s too late. You don’t want your phone to take over your life—God should be the most important! That’s why we check our screen time every week. It helps us stay in control, not let our devices control us. If you’re on your phone too much, it can make you tired, distracted, or even sad and depressed. It’s better to turn off notifications or delete apps that waste your time. We’ve done this, and it really helps.
More important than screens is spending time with God. Go to Mass, pray, and talk to God every day. Make time for your family and friends too. One of the best things you can do is be present—look people in the eye, talk to them, and listen. Even if others are on their phones, choose to look up and connect. You won’t regret it. Some of our best memories come from hanging out with friends or playing games with our siblings—not staring at a screen alone.
Here are some tips we’ve learned and try to follow:
- Finish your homework and chores before using electronics.
- Don’t use your phone an hour before bed or first thing in the morning—it helps you sleep better and start your day with peace.
- Don’t use electronics while eating. Mealtimes are a chance to connect with others.
- Use your devices in common spaces, not alone in your room or in the bathroom (that’s just gross!).
- Have phone-free places, like the dinner table, or your bedroom or church where you are alone with God.
- Don’t sneak your phone into school—it’s not worth the trouble.
- Use apps that help you grow, and avoid those that waste your time.
- Set screen time limits on games, shows, and your phone.
- Never talk to strangers online. Some people aren’t who they say they are, and that can be dangerous.
- Be careful what you post and download. What goes on the Internet stays there.
- If you see anything that makes you uncomfortable, talk to a trusted adult right away.
- Ask your parents to help set up parental controls so they can protect you from anything harmful.
God gave us our minds and our hearts to love him and others. Let’s not let screens take us away from what matters most. Use your phone to build relationships, not to escape them. Use technology for good, not for harm. And always stay close to God.
We hope these tips help you become a wise and responsible user of technology. You’ve got this!
With care,
Your Friends in 5th through 8th Grade
Your Friends in 5th through 8th Grade
