Parenting in a tech-driven world …
With technology (and AI) embedded in the fabric of family life, children increasingly spend more time online at younger ages. Is this cause for concern? It probably is, especially if it compromises family relationships or hinders family faith formation.
Employ discernment.
Technology (tablets, smartphones, televisions, and computers) is a significant parenting dilemma. According to a Pew Research report, the top two reasons for increased parenting difficulties are technology in general (26%) and social media (21%). Both were cited more than “changing morals or violence and drugs.”
When left to their own devices, children increasingly fall deeper into the clutches of technology. The intrusion is subtle. Technology is covertly manipulative – deliberately breaking down intellectual filters to make children susceptible to advertising pitches and ideological manipulation. You may be unaware it’s happening, but every click, scroll, and comment you or your child makes is being analyzed by complex algorithms that drive the push content in your news feeds.
Impose limits.
As children spend more time with technology, it holds their attention longer. Gradually and imperceptibly, children’s brains are being rewired, perceptions realigned, and hearts reprogrammed. Is your child starting to think like a computer? Is technology, as the scientist Albert Einstein suggested, exceeding our humanity? Andy Steiger, president of Apologetics Canada, believes it is. He says, “Technology shapes your children; it makes humans into machines.”
Really? Is technology dehumanizing children? While there’s no definitive answer, parents are generally cautious. Most parents of children aged 5 to 11 limit the time of day or length of time their children can use screens and check the websites and mobile apps their children use. Some parents eliminate screens from their households altogether, while others allow and monitor their use.
Act wisely.
King Solomon, the wisest man of his day, told his son he would be tempted, and he wanted him to know how to deal with it (Proverbs 5-8). He didn’t wait until it was too late. Nor should you.
Technology and temptation coexist. If your child is online, they will be tempted. According to a Common Sense Media survey, the average age of a child’s first exposure to pornography is 12. Pre-empt the problem. Teach the biblical view of sexuality. Talk about the dangers and pitfalls of technology. Walk your child through different scenarios. Identify what could go wrong or what is harmful. Be available, approachable and willing to help.
Control behaviour.
The parents who fail will be those who can’t learn, unlearn or relearn how to manage their children’s use of technology. Be your child’s ally, not the enemy. Children shouldn’t use technology for the wrong reasons. Set guards and guidelines. Tell them you’re on their side. Don’t allow your children to use technology that will limit their development, compromise their safety, lead to an addiction, create behavioural problems, adversely affect their health, minimize their time with others, conflict with biblical principles, or restrict their faith formation.
Discipline your thoughts and actions. Are you monitoring your use of technology? Is your smartphone your constant companion? Do you scroll through posts for hours on end? Does your screen time exceed your Bible reading and prayer time? Your online habits could undermine your child’s well-being. So, “be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith …” 1 Peter 5:8–9.
Please share your thoughts about parenting in a tech-driven world in the comments below.
Related Articles
Raising Tech-Wise Children: Parenting Strategies in a Digital World
Ten Essential Topics Parents Should Discuss with Their Children
Summary
Parenting in a tech-driven world requires wisdom and vigilance. This article discusses how technology and family relationships can be impacted, emphasizing the importance of discernment and limits to safeguard children’s mental, emotional, and spiritual health. It highlights the dangers of managing screen time for kids poorly, including addiction, safety risks, and reduced faith formation. Parents are urged to proactively teach biblical values, monitor online activities, and set clear boundaries. Practical advice includes protecting children online, controlling screen usage, and being role models for balanced technology use. For those searching “how to guide kids through technology challenges” or “faith-based parenting strategies for technology,” this guide equips families to navigate digital challenges confidently, ensuring technology complements rather than disrupts faith formation and family relationships.
© Scripture Union, 2025
Soli Deo Gloria
