Check with the school:  Does your child’s issued device have the appropriate anti-virus and security These controls can restrict access to certain websites and apps, as well as track usage. Food For Thought The White Hatter References: 1/  https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/a-transformational-approach-to-parenting-in-todays-onlife-world

Some of the most technologically valuable information a person generates may never appear publicly on We don’t believe that approach works, especially when it comes to AI. Instead of only discussing who can see a photograph, talk about what permissions an app has to access Before uploading a family photograph into an AI image generator, consider who appears in it. Before granting an app access to a photo library, microphone, contacts, or location, ask whether that

As this discussion moves forward, there is growing pressure to model the bill on Australia’s recent approach proposals for age gating social media are well intentioned, but evidence and expert analysis show this approach challenges; it does not change the environments where harm occurs, it can shift youth to less regulated apps Tools that empower parents to make age-appropriate choices for their children, such as device-level controls This approach protects youth more effectively than putting a legislative age limit on access.

Some have experienced it directly, particularly on communication based apps like Snapchat. When we ground our approach in understanding rather than fear, we are in a much better position to guide

might also be viewed with suspicion if they receive funding from companies selling parental control apps This same scrutiny often does not apply to organizations, individuals, or advocacy groups pushing a message

- It doesn’t appear so. If not, why not? national elections looming in May 2025, some Australian experts speculate this Bill is an attempt to appease Do messaging apps count as a social media platform? if platforms like Instagram and TikTok are inaccessible, children might turn to encrypted messaging apps Equip your children with the age-appropriate tools they need to navigate the onlife world responsibly

Terms like “social media addiction” appear hundreds of times more often than more accurate language like of technology “addiction,” it can make everyday behaviour seem pathological and discourage healthier approaches We believe that when this phrase is applied to digital life, the term fits perfectly. week Keeping devices out of bedrooms at night Taking one week per month to step back from a specific app

We have met youth and teens who use their devices to run small businesses, create digital art, build apps This is why we need to approach the issue of screen use with more empathy and less judgment.

and offers ideas across categories such as books, toys, and apparel. 2/ Speed, Efficiency, and Decision Go directly to the company’s official site or app to check orders.

A balanced approach recognizes that technology isn’t inherently harmful or inherently beneficial. If a youth or teen can transition off a game, video, or app without a meltdown, it’s a good sign that posted, manage online relationships, and plan for the transition into more adult spaces like banking apps For students who need translation tools, assistive apps, or digital learning supports, technology can New apps appear overnight, AI becomes more capable by the month and online risks evolve in ways that

Every notification feels dangerous, every app feels like a risk multiplier, and parenting becomes reactive Clear scaffolding, including age-appropriate access, rules, and expectations are extremely important and shame this parent was carrying, we provided them with several resources that take a more balances approach Where did my approach leave no room for conversation?

look and feel completely normal to young people, social media platforms, gaming spaces, and messaging apps Young people are rarely approached with anything that looks like exploitation. Instead, they are often presented with what appears to be opportunity: Modelling or influencer offers AI allows offenders to appear more attentive, more responsive, and more emotionally in tune than would The approach is rarely forceful, it’s relational.