PLC Sydney was proud to launch the 2026 Little Talks, Big Impact series with a timely and thought-provoking conversation: “Phones off. Curiosity on.”
This two-part event brought together our community through an afternoon session with PLC Sydney teaching staff, followed by an evening gathering for parents and senior school students. It marked an important moment for reflection following the introduction of the College’s new mobile phone policy, and opened a broader dialogue about the role of technology in young people’s lives.
At its heart, the evening reinforced a simple but powerful idea: in a world designed to capture our attention, learning how to protect it matters.
We were delighted to welcome back ex-student Dr Anastasia Hronis (Class of 2009) as guest speaker.
A Clinical Psychologist and leading voice in youth mental health, Dr Hronis explored the science behind screen use, short-form video content, and social media, with a particular focus on dopamine and its influence on motivation, behaviour and emotional well-being. Drawing on recent research, she discussed emerging links between short-form video consumption and attention and focus challenges in young people.
Referencing insights from her book The Dopamine Brain , Dr Hronis translated complex research into practical, relatable strategies for families, offering clear ways to support healthier technology habits at home. Her message resonated strongly with attendees, sparking thoughtful questions and meaningful discussion during the Q&A.
Key takeaways from the evening included:
- In an increasingly noisy world, we must be intentional about where we direct our attention
- Embracing boredom can help build frustration tolerance and resilience
- Avoiding screens first thing in the morning may reduce reliance on artificial dopamine stimulation that can flatten motivation later in the day
- Parents play a vital role in setting boundaries around screen use, particularly as young people are still developing self-regulation skills
The event highlighted the importance of partnership between school and home. As PLC Sydney continues to implement its mobile phone policy, opportunities like this ensure families feel informed, supported, and connected to the purpose behind our approach.
It was inspiring to see our community come together with openness and engagement, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting student growth and well-being.
“Phones off. Curiosity on.” set a strong and reflective tone for the Little Talks, Big Impact series. We look forward to continuing these important conversations throughout the year, bringing expert voices and our community together to explore the issues that matter most.
Thank you to all who attended and contributed to such a meaningful evening.