Australia’s recent decision to enforce strict age restrictions on social media for kids really struck a chord with me.

As I read the news, I could not help but think of my own little granddaughter. I want her to grow up chasing butterflies, not notifications. Hearing stories from people, not algorithms. Discovering the world through books, scraped knees and messy hands instead of a glowing screen.

In countries like Pakistan, where most of our population is young and smartphone access is widespread, we simply do not have the protections in place to shield our children from the harmful effects of early digital exposure.

The effects show up in terms of shrinking attention spans, distorted self-esteem, reduced physical interaction, and an addictive relationship with technology that starts far too early.

But beyond government policy, there is another layer of responsibility we do not talk about enough, which is the role of families and parents.

Parents today are raising children in a world very different from the one they grew up in. Screens are everywhere, in schools, homes, entertainment, even in moments that should belong to silence and imagination. It is not easy, and there is no handbook.

In such an environment, families have a greater role than ever before. Setting boundaries at home, modelling healthy screen habits, encouraging outdoor play, teaching children how to manage boredom, and creating device-free routines.

These small steps can make a big difference. Children learn more from what they see than what they are told, and if they see us glued to our own screens, we cannot expect them to behave differently.

As a grandfather, I see this more clearly now. The warmth of real connection, the kind that comes from conversations, shared meals, storytelling, and simply being present, cannot be replaced by any device.

So, when I see countries like Australia taking bold action, I find myself asking why not us? Why should our children be more exposed and more vulnerable? Why should we not be safeguarding childhood?

I truly hope our politicians and powers that be consider similar measures. But even before policy catches up, we as families can take the first steps to protect our future generations!

Worth thinking about 🤔