Dear Readers,

In this new age and times of Gen Zs and Gen Alpha, where babies already started operating phones and iPads from their mother’s wombs, nearly every part of a child’s life—from online learning and gaming to social media and communication is woven around technology. While digital tools offer incredible opportunities for growth, creativity, and connection, they also present challenges such as screen overuse, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content. Raising digitally responsible children means helping young people not only use technology, but use it wisely, safely, and responsibly. This requires a balance of guidance, clear boundaries, and positive role modelling from both parents and educators.

A Story to Begin With

Last week, Mrs. Okafor noticed her 10-year-old son, Chima, was unusually quiet after school. When she asked what was wrong, he reluctantly showed her a message from an online game where another player had been teasing him. Chima had kept it to himself because he wasn’t sure if telling his parents would help. He kept drowning gradually in misery, fear and depression till his mum finally noticed him.

This is a story that many parents and educators can relate to. Children today grow up surrounded by smartphones, tablets, and computers. While technology brings opportunities to learn, connect, and explore, it also introduces risks. The good news is that parents and teachers can guide  children  to  become  digitally  responsible  —  not  by  banning technology, but by teaching healthy habits and safe practices.

   1.  Set Clear Limits and Boundaries

Children thrive when they know what is expected. Establish daily screen-time limits and create device-free zones, such as bedrooms, the dinner table, or family gatherings. This not only reduces distractions but also strengthens family connections.

   2.  Teach Online Safety and Privacy

Conversations about digital safety should begin early. Teach children to protect personal information (like full names, addresses, or school details) and to seek help if they encounter bullying, scams, or inappropriate content online.

   3.  Model Healthy Tech Habits

Children watch and copy adults. If parents and educators constantly check their phones during meals or conversations, children learn that devices are more important than people. Modeling balance—like putting phones away during family time—helps kids do the same.

   4.  Create a Family Media Plan

Sit down together as a family and draft a simple media plan. Decide: When devices can be used (e.g., after homework, not before bed). Where they can be used (e.g., living room, not bedrooms). Why they are being used (learning, communication, fun). This plan gives children ownership and responsibility while keeping expectations clear.

5.  Encourage Digital Citizenship

Teach children kindness and empathy in the online world. Just as they are taught to respect people face-to-face, they must learn to respect others’ feelings, ideas, and boundaries online.

   6.  Balance Online and Offline Activities

Encourage hobbies that don’t involve screens—such as reading, playing sports, drawing, or family board games. This balance prevents over-dependence on technology for fun.

   7.  Discuss Online Content Critically

Help children learn to question what they see online. Discuss how some content may be misleading or false and encourage them to ask questions before believing or sharing information.

   8.  Involve Children in Decision-Making

Instead of imposing rules, involve children in discussions about tech use. This builds trust and accountability, teaching them that responsibility is shared.

   9.  Teach About Digital Footprints

Explain that everything posted online—photos, comments, likes— becomes part of their digital reputation. Encourage them to think: “Would  I  be  comfortable if  my teacher or grandparent saw this?” before posting.

10.  Celebrate Tech as a Tool for Learning

Not all screen time is harmful. Highlight positive uses of technology— such as coding, educational apps, or connecting with family. This reframes devices as tools for growth rather than distractions.