Supporting Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society BETTER/SMARTER.ME 
Feeling the weight of your child’s screen time, you might notice a tug in your gut—an instinct telling you to watch closely, to protect, to set boundaries. It’s almost like the sensation of a quiet voice whispering, “Is this safe? Is this okay?” That sense isn’t just in your head. It’s rooted in a deep, bodily awareness of your child’s well-being in a digital world that’s constantly expanding.
Many parents find themselves caught between the convenience of screens and a nagging concern about safety and privacy. As children navigate their digital playgrounds, parents often wonder about what’s happening behind the scenes. Are their personal data being protected? Are their online interactions safe from predators or harmful content? This worry isn’t just a fleeting thought; it’s an embodied alert that guides many parents’ approach to managing screen time.
Recent survey insights reveal that parents’ top concern about their children’s screen time revolves around safety and privacy. These worries aren’t unfounded. They stem from a visceral sense that digital spaces can be unpredictable and sometimes dangerous, much like unfamiliar territory in the physical world. When a parent worries about their child’s personal information or exposure to online threats, it’s an instinctual response—an innate desire to shield their child from unseen harms.
For many parents, the concern extends beyond just avoiding cyberbullying or inappropriate content. It includes fears about data privacy—who is collecting their child’s info, and how it might be used. This awareness, often felt in the gut, pushes them to establish boundaries, monitor online activity, and seek trustworthy platforms. That quiet vigilance is part of a natural protective instinct that’s been amplified by the digital age’s complexities.
These fears influence how families structure their days. Parents might set strict rules about device use, insist on shared screen time, or use parental controls as a shield. They’re essentially trying to create a safe digital environment where their child’s curiosity can grow without risking privacy breaches or exposure to harmful content.
But these worries also reveal something deeper: a desire for connection and trust. When parents voice concerns about online safety, they’re not just worried about technical risks—they’re seeking reassurance that their children are navigating digital spaces in a way that respects their boundaries and privacy. This protective stance can foster healthier habits, encouraging open conversations about online experiences and building a foundation of trust that’s just as vital as setting limits.
Recognizing that fear of privacy invasion and safety concerns are natural, parents can approach these worries with a sense of mindfulness rather than panic. Learning about privacy settings, choosing age-appropriate platforms, and having honest discussions about online risks can transform fear into empowerment. When you tune into your bodily sensations—your gut feelings—you can better gauge when your boundaries need reinforcing or when it’s time to step back and listen to your child’s perspective.
Creating a family culture that values safety and respect in digital spaces isn’t about eliminating all risks but about cultivating awareness. This approach helps children develop their own sense of boundaries and responsibility, much like learning to navigate the physical world with confidence. When parents listen to their instincts and stay informed, they can guide their children toward a balanced, safe relationship with screens—anchored in trust, awareness, and mutual respect.
Learn More: New survey shows privacy and safety tops list of parental concerns about screen time
Abstract: As kids spend more time on screens, a new national survey conducted by Ipsos on behalf of The Kids Mental Health Foundation, founded by Nationwide Children’s Hospital, identifies parents’ greatest fears for their children around screen time.
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Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.
