On Tuesday 1st October, more than 30 parents gathered for an engaging session on Parenting in the Digital Age, led by Jonathan Clark, Head of Computer Science and Integration. The event offered practical advice on how parents can embrace technology’s benefits while addressing its challenges.

Jonathan opened the session by discussing parents’ hopes for how technology can support their children’s learning, alongside common concerns such as screen time and online safety. He emphasised that technology, when guided correctly, offers personalised learning, boosts engagement, and equips children with essential digital skills for the future. However, with a rise in time spent online by both adults and children, it’s crucial for parents to stay involved.

A key theme of the presentation was the importance of parents being role models in their own digital habits. Jon highlighted that children often mirror what they see, so it’s vital for parents to demonstrate responsible technology use. This includes setting boundaries for their own screen time and being mindful of their digital footprint, showing children how to behave online.

As parents, we set the tone for how technology is used in our homes. By being mindful of our own digital habits, we can guide our children to use technology responsibly and positively. It’s about balance, involvement, and setting the right example – Jonathan Clark, Head of Computer Science and Integration

Practical tips were shared, such as creating family media agreements and making use of tools like Apple’s Screen Time. Parents were encouraged to have open conversations about online behaviour and to set privacy controls on social media. Jonathan stressed the importance of proactive involvement, rather than just relying on monitoring software.

The session concluded with a lively Q&A, where parents shared some of their own experiences with their children’s technology use. This open discussion allowed for deeper insight into the practical challenges parents face and provided an opportunity for parents to exchange ideas and solutions. Useful resources were shared, including links to Common Sense Media and National Online Safety, to support parents in their ongoing journey of raising digitally responsible children. Parents left feeling more confident about how to manage their family’s digital environment.

Well-being and Mental Health Considerations

An important aspect of parenting in the digital age is the connection between technology use and well-being. Excessive screen time, social media pressures, and online distractions can affect both mental health and family dynamics. During the session, Jonathan Clark encouraged parents to approach technology with balance, ensuring that digital habits contribute positively to their children’s mental and emotional health. By setting clear boundaries and maintaining open communication, families can foster healthier relationships with technology, promoting well-being while building essential digital skills. This focus on mental health aligns with BISP’s commitment to well-being, ensuring that both parents and students are equipped to navigate the digital world with mindfulness and care.