Student wellbeing has never been more important and supporting it has never been more complex. With screens now deeply embedded in how young people learn, connect and unwind, guiding students to navigate their digital lives thoughtfully is becoming an increasingly relevant focus in the classroom.
Teens & Screens is a new, evidence-informed classroom program developed by Black Dog Institute in partnership with the Bupa Foundation. Designed for students in Years 7 to 9, the free program gives young people the tools they need to reflect on their screen use, understand its impact on their wellbeing, and take control of their digital lives.
Grounded in research from the Future Proofing Study, Australia’s largest study on adolescent mental health, Teens & Screens offers a balanced approach. Rather than telling teens to get off their phones, it encourages open discussion and gives them the knowledge to make better decisions about their online behaviour.
“We want to give young people the tools to understand whether what they’re doing online affects how they feel,” said Associate Professor Aliza Werner-Seidler, lead researcher at Black Dog Institute. “By giving them knowledge, not just rules, we’re helping them navigate the digital world with confidence.”
While concerns about screen time are common, the research shows that it is not just about the time spent online, but how screens are being used. From socialising and learning to exploring interests or seeking support, digital platforms can offer benefits when used with awareness.
“Screens aren’t inherently bad,” said Dr Werner-Seidler. “What matters is the type of activity, the content being engaged with, and how it makes teens feel. Instead of fuelling guilt or fear, we’re here to share the facts, both good and bad, so teens can make more informed choices.”
The program includes a 50-minute classroom lesson that is ready to deliver, co-designed with young people to make sure it feels relevant and engaging. Students learn how persuasive design keeps them engaged online, explore the positives and challenges of screen use, and gain strategies for finding a healthier balance.
Everything teachers need is included: a classroom presentation, facilitator manual, student and parent fact sheets, and a pre-written email to communicate with families. It is designed to fit easily into busy school schedules and align with existing wellbeing initiatives.
A free resource pack for parents is also available to support learning beyond the classroom. It includes a downloadable guide with nine practical strategies, a webinar on screen use and mental health, and a summary of research from the Future Proofing Study.
An expanded Teens & Screens program for Years 10 to 12 is in development and expected to launch in 2025.
Learn more at https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/teens-screens/
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