Today’s students spend time on TikTok, YouTube, Roblox, Instagram and Minecraft not just for entertainment but also for learning and connecting with friends. While these platforms provide opportunities for creativity and global connection, they also bring risks such as cyberbullying, online predators, scams, inappropriate content, and oversharing of personal information. Shockingly, Malaysia ranks second in Asia for youth cyberbullying. Questions Every Parent is Asking During the session, our community explored big questions parents often raise: Does social media help or harm children? How does screen time affect mental health, behaviour, and belonging? What role do parents, schools, and digital companies play in protecting children online? Expert Advice: Risks, Responsibilities, and Solutions Our IT specialists highlighted dangers such as harmful content, data misuse, and the impact of excessive screen time on wellbeing. At the same time, they reminded parents that active involvement and open communication remain the most effective tools in promoting healthy digital habits. Simple practices—setting boundaries, talking about online experiences, and exploring apps together—can significantly reduce risks and help children feel supported. Tools Parents Can Use at Home Parents were introduced to easy-to-use digital parenting tools such as: Google Family Link Microsoft Family Safety Apple Screen Time Kids360 These tools allow families to monitor usage, filter content, and encourage balance. But the session emphasised that nothing replaces parent-child conversations and genuine interest in what children are doing online. Trusted Guidance for Families A key takeaway was the value of reliable online resources. Internet Matters, for example, offers up-to-date advice on social media, gaming, online safety, and even guidance on emerging technologies like AI.
