As digital devices become a more common part of childhood, American parents are becoming increasingly concerned about what their children are doing online. According to a new national poll conducted by Ipsos, parents' primary concerns are not only how long their children spend on screens but also what they are exposed to and who may be watching. 

Almost half (47%) of parents expressed anxiety about their children's online privacy and safety. In other words, parents are concerned about strangers attempting to contact their children or their children accidentally encountering uncomfortable or hazardous content. 

Xia Chekwa, a mother of three from Columbus, Ohio, articulated the feelings shared by many parents. "My biggest concerns with screens are making sure that my kids don't get exposed to things before I'm ready for them to and making sure that people aren't trying to contact them," she told me. "They're aware that not everywhere is a safe place." 

Another major concern is disinformation — inaccurate or misleading content that youngsters may encounter when browsing the internet or using social media. Approximately 36% of parents viewed this as a major issue. Meanwhile, 34% are concerned that screen time may replace in-person social connection, making it difficult for youngsters to form real-world friendships and communicate effectively. 

Interestingly, fewer parents prioritise school performance or body image issues, indicating a shift in focus from conventional concerns to more modern digital threats. 

According to the survey, nearly 80% of parents are taking proactive steps to limit their children's screen usage, indicating growing concerns about digital overexposure. The most popular technique, utilised by 58% of these parents, is to place strict time limitations on device use. In addition to setting boundaries, approximately 53% of parents are encouraging their children to pursue offline interests such as sports, reading, or playing musical instruments, establishing a healthier mix of virtual and real-world activities. Furthermore, 34% are utilising parental control applications to filter hazardous content and monitor screen usage, demonstrating a multifaceted strategy that includes punishment, involvement, and digital tools to protect their children's well-being. 

But Dr. Ariana Hoet, a child psychologist, stresses that mere limitations are insufficient. "We can't expect kids to set their limits and boundaries because this technology is made to keep us using it," she tells me. Simply said, apps and websites are made to be addicting, particularly to young, impressionable minds. 

That is why Dr Hoet suggests that parents go beyond monitoring and instead communicate directly with their children regarding technology. "Sit with them, watch how they use it, ask them questions," she tells me. "That not only helps your child feel like you're interested in them but also helps you learn how they're navigating this digital world." 

Chekwa, like many parents, wants to raise children who can make sound decisions even when adults are not there. She has begun teaching her daughter to think critically and trust her intuition. "Eventually, there's going to come a time when we're not there," she told me. "And we want to make sure she knows, and she can use her intuition—not just because Mom and Dad said so." 

This analysis comes during Mental Health Awareness Month, providing a timely reminder that digital behaviour and mental health are inextricably linked. Children who spend too much time online, particularly without supervision, may feel anxiety, loneliness, or sleep disturbances, all of which can have a negative impact on their long-term wellbeing. 

To address this, a new national initiative, Kids Mental Health Starts With Us, has been created. The program encourages people (parents, teachers, grandparents, and community members) to play an active role in developing children's mental health before problems arise. The idea is to develop emotional resilience early on through attention, limits, and open communication. 

Screen time is not going anywhere. However, it is up to adults to ensure that youngsters use it securely and sensibly. That includes recognising what kids are doing online, talking about it on a regular basis, and establishing healthy rules—not only to limit screen time but also to develop life skills that will serve them well beyond childhood.