Parenting Talk – Raising Children in a Digital Age
Attending a recent parenting talk by Dr Suzanne Choo on Raising Children in a Digital Age was both reassuring and quietly confronting. She began by naming what many parents already sense: we are raising children in a world we did not grow up in. Screens are ubiquitous, attention is fragmented, and influences—both positive and harmful—reach our children faster than we can keep pace. Yet amid this rapid change, the foundations of parenting remain remarkably constant.
A central theme of the talk was the importance of cultivating character rather than merely building competencies. Dr Choo reflected on the shift within education systems from achievement-driven outcomes to a deeper focus on character formation—recognising that true human flourishing goes beyond skills and performance. Long before Aristotle articulated the idea of eudaimonia, she noted, God had already designed humanity to flourish. For parents seeking to nurture this flourishing in their children, Scripture offers a steady and enduring compass.
I was also reminded of the value of community. Conversations with fellow parents underscored how vital it is to journey together, especially in a culture that often prioritises academic success above all else. While education and enrichment opportunities have their place, cultivating spiritual friendships and growth within the church may be even more critical in helping our children remain rooted in God’s family. The more pressing question, perhaps, is not how many opportunities we can provide for our children to excel, but how intentionally we are creating space for them to know and experience God’s kingdom.
Perhaps the most comforting takeaway was this: parents are not meant to navigate these challenges alone. While the landscape may be new, the foundation is not. Love, consistency, and faith remain steady anchors. As Psalm 127:3 reminds us, “children are a heritage from the Lord.” They are entrusted to us—not to be managed perfectly, but to be guided faithfully.
Leaving the talk, I was struck by a simple but profound truth: raising children in a digital age is less about mastering technology and more about shaping character. Devices will continue to evolve, but a child grounded in strong values, secure relationships, and spiritual truth will be far better equipped to navigate whatever lies ahead.
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