Raising Kids in the Digital Age: Suzi Abrera Speaks at AnakTV Symposium

Understanding Today’s Digital Landscape

On August 2, 2025, AnakTV brought its Media Literacy Symposium to San Francisco High School, where television host and mother of three Suzi Abrera addressed parents, teachers, and students on the timely topic “Raising Kids in the Digital Age: Navigating Challenges & Opportunities.”

Abrera began by tracing the evolution of media—from newspapers, radio, and television, to the rise of the internet and social media platforms such as YouTube, Twitter/X, Instagram, and TikTok.

She highlighted how viewership has shifted dramatically over the years: while television had a stronghold in 2015, by 2024 online platforms have become the dominant medium, with over 70 million Filipinos consuming content online compared to only 35 million on television.

This shift, Abrera emphasized, underscores the need for parents and educators to be vigilant, informed, and proactive in guiding children’s media consumption.

Challenges in Parenting Today

Suzi outlined some of the most common challenges parents face in the digital era:

• Screen time management, especially with younger children.
• Cyberbullying, which requires open conversations and supportive action rather than denial of technology.
• Social media’s impact on self-esteem, where constant comparison can take a toll on children’s confidence.
• Digital addiction, linked to dopamine reward cycles similar to substance addiction

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She also shared age-appropriate guidelines for screen time, stressing that children under 18 months should only use video chat, while those older should have carefully limited daily exposure, ideally accompanied by adult supervision.

Opportunities in the Digital Age

Despite the challenges, Abrera reminded the audience that the digital age also opens unprecedented opportunities for learning and growth. Children now have access to educational platforms such as SplashLearn, ABCmouse, Duolingo, National Geographic Kids, and Code.org, which can expand their knowledge beyond the classroom.

Moreover, digital tools enhance connectivity and socialization, help develop future-ready skills, and expose children to diverse perspectives and cultures. The key, she noted, is to harness the positive aspects while minimizing the harmful effects.

Parenting Strategies for the Modern Era

Abrera offered practical parenting strategies for the digital age:

• Set clear limits and boundaries on screen time.
• Monitor online activity while maintaining open conversations.
• Model healthy digital behavior as adults.
• Encourage digital literacy and critical thinking so children can distinguish credible information from harmful content

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She also introduced the “NEW START” approach—a holistic reminder to focus on Nutrition, Exercise, Water, Sunlight, Temperance, Air, Rest, and Trust in God as essential pillars for children’s well-being, beyond just digital habits. By balancing physical, emotional, and spiritual health, families can ensure that children grow up grounded and resilient in today’s fast-paced online environment.

Key Takeaways for Families and Educators

Abrera concluded with a heartfelt reminder: “Acknowledge that we are living in a digital world, but we must harness the good, avoid the negative, and keep communication open.” She urged parents to stay involved, be interested in their child’s activities, and never shy away from offering analog forms of play and bonding, such as sports and traditional Filipino games.

Her final message was clear: while technology is here to stay, it is the responsibility of families, schools, and communities to shape how children use it—for learning, growth, and love of country, not for distraction or harm.

About AnakTV

ANAK TV is an advocacy organization composed of all major television networks in the Philippines. It promotes television literacy and pushes for child-sensitive, family-friendly programming. Through projects like the AnakTV Seal, forums, symposia, and school-based engagements, AnakTV empowers parents, teachers, and the youth to make informed choices about media consumption. Its mission is to build a healthier media environment where Filipino children can thrive, learn, and grow responsibly in the digital age.