For almost all parents, most of the time, digital parenting is a recipe for uncertainty and concern.

Digital media is sometimes blamed for stunting early language development; other times it’s lauded for supporting children’s language and imaginations. Restricting access is thought to protect children, but research suggests that fostering responsible internet use is more effective. What is the way forward, through the dire warnings and doubts? Is there a possible policy reset that allows parents to worry less?

In the wake of Australia’s social media ban, Lelia Green draws on many years of research into digital parenting to examine online safety and screen time in the digital age. First-time parents often discuss schooling, religion and diet, but rarely talk about how to parent with technology. Parents can guide their child on a digital journey to become confident, competent internet users.

Professor Lelia Green is Chief Investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child at Edith Cowan University, where she leads a team of researchers from across health, education and social welfare. Green was an early pioneer of research with children (rather than about children) and has been chief investigator on international projects including on toddlers’ internet use. She has consulted for UNESCO Asia-Pacific and belongs to several international networks, including the European Commission–funded DigiLitEY and EU Kids Online. Green serves on the editorial board of leading publication Journal of Children and Media.