“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6

Let’s face it—social media and digital technology aren’t going anywhere. In fact, they’re becoming more integrated into our daily lives with each passing day. As parents and caregivers, we have a wonderful opportunity to help our children navigate this digital landscape with wisdom and discernment.

It’s possible to use biblical truths to guide our kids in using technology wisely. When we intentionally teach these principles early on, we’re building a foundation they can rely on when social media becomes a bigger part of their lives.

So, let’s chat about 3 practical ways we can help our kids thrive in the digital world while staying rooted in biblical principles.

1. Teach the Value of Self-Control

Have you noticed how quickly your kids pick up new technology? It’s amazing, right? Their developing brains absorb information so much faster than ours do as adults. This makes childhood the perfect time to teach the valuable skill of self-control when it comes to screen time.

The Bible reminds us in Galatians 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

Self-control might not be the fruit that gets the most attention, but it’s so crucial in today’s digital world! Here’s what you can try:

• Set clear boundaries: Establish screen time limits that work for your family. Many devices now have built-in tools to help with this.
• Model healthy habits: Our kids are watching us! When they see us putting our phones down during family time, they learn by example.
• Gradually build responsibility: As your child demonstrates self-control, you can slowly give them more autonomy with their devices.

Remember, the goal isn’t just restriction—it’s teaching them to develop internal self-control that will serve them well throughout life.

2. Promote Digital Literacy + Critical Thinking

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to double-check something I saw online! Our kids need to develop this same healthy skepticism and critical thinking.

Proverbs 2:6 tells us, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

In a world full of filtered photos and curated content, our kids need wisdom to discern what’s real and what’s not. Here’s how we can help:

• Ask questions together: When scrolling through content, ask questions like, “Do you think this represents real life?” or “What might they not be showing us?”
• Talk about comparison: Have open conversations about the dangers of comparing their ordinary, everyday moments to someone else’s highlight reel.
• Discuss God’s unique plan: Remind them that God has created an individual journey for each of us—their path doesn’t need to match anyone else’s, online or offline!

Isn’t it reassuring to know that true wisdom comes from the Lord? When our kids face confusing messages online, we can point them back to this truth.

3. Stay Involved + Communicate Regularly

This might be the most important point of all! Being involved in our children’s digital lives creates safety and builds trust.

Deuteronomy 6:7 encourages us to “Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

While this verse is talking about God’s commands, the principle applies perfectly to digital guidance—make it an ongoing conversation, not a one-time lecture. Here’s how:

• Check in regularly: Ask what they’re enjoying online, what they’re learning, and if anything has confused or upset them.
• Create a safe space: Make sure they know they can come to you without judgment if they encounter something troubling.
• Use helpful tools: Consider using family management apps like Google Family Link, which allows you to monitor app usage and downloads. I used this with my own children, and it created great opportunities for discussions about digital boundaries.

The most powerful protection isn’t just parental controls—it’s your ongoing presence and communication in their digital journey.

Wrapping Up

Parenting in the digital age comes with challenges our parents never faced, but the biblical principles of wisdom, self-control, and intentional parenting are timeless. By applying these 3 approaches and keeping communication open, we can help our children navigate the digital world in ways that honor God and protect their hearts and minds.

✏️  AUTHOR CREDITS

This blog was written by the Mission Hills Church Kids Ministry.