Digital Child : Creating Confident Children

For almost all parents, most of the time, digital parenting is a recipe for uncertainty and concern. Digital media is sometimes blamed for stunting early language development; other times it’s lauded for supporting children’s language and imaginations. Restricting access is thought to protect children, but research suggests that fostering responsible internet use is more effective. What is the way forward, through the dire warnings and doubts? Is there a possible policy reset that allows parents to worry less? In the wake of Australia’s social media ban, Lelia Green draws on many years of research into digital parenting to examine online safety and screen time in the digital age. First-time parents often discuss schooling, religion and diet, but rarely talk about how to parent with technology. Parents can guide their child on a digital journey to become confident, competent internet users.