Abu Dhabi: On the third day of the Global Media Congress, a thought-provoking session titled “Mindful Media: Supporting Children’s Well-Being in a Digital Era” addressed the impact of digital technology on children and the role of institutions and families in safeguarding their mental and social well-being.
According to Emirates News Agency, the session was moderated by Amira Mohammed, a television presenter at Abu Dhabi Media, and featured prominent speakers: Dr. Youssef Al Hammadi, Executive Director of the Knowledge and Impact Sector at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority; Dr. Fatmah Khameis Alraeisi, Director of the Social Protection Fund; and Major Khaled Al Kaabi, Director of the Ministry of Interior’s Center for Child Protection.
Dr. Youssef Al Hammadi emphasised the critical importance of the first five years of a child’s life, during which 90% of their personality is developed. He highlighted the necessity of positively guiding technology use to support children’s healthy development, while und
erscoring the role of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority in formulating strategies that promote well-being in the digital age. Dr. Al Hammadi also called for further research to understand the effects of screen time on children, particularly during their formative years.
Dr. Fatmah Khameis Alraeisi underscored the vital role of families in educating children about the risks of excessive technology use. She emphasized the need to instill core values and strengthen children’s cultural identity from an early age, noting that parents serve as the first line of defense in navigating digital challenges. She also highlighted the importance of parents setting a positive example in their own use of digital devices.
Major Khaled Al Kaabi outlined the Ministry of Interior’s efforts in protecting children from digital risks, including cyberbullying and inappropriate content. He stressed the importance of UAE legislation in creating a safe digital environment for children and emphasized the need for collaboration b
etween government institutions and families to achieve this goal.
The session concluded with a call for stronger partnerships between government, families, and the broader community to establish a comprehensive framework that protects children and promotes the positive use of digital technology. The speakers emphasized the need for ongoing innovation and sustainable solutions to support children’s well-being in an increasingly digital world.