Protecting Little Minds: Guarding Kids from Negative Media

Written by: Layne McDonald, Ph.D.

”I will set nothing wicked before my eyes." – Psalm 101:3
In a world filled with glowing screens and endless streams of content, protecting our children’s minds has never been more crucial. The media they consume shapes their hearts, their thoughts, and their values. As parents, we’re called to guard their innocence and guide their focus toward what is pure and good.

The Power of Guarding What They See
The average child spends 7 hours a day on screens, according to the CDC. That’s more time than they spend in school or with family. With so much influence from digital media, intentionality is key to helping them grow in Christ while shielding them from harm.

Practical Steps to Protect and Uplift

1. Use Parental Controls
   Take advantage of parental controls on devices and apps to filter out harmful content. These tools are a simple but powerful way to safeguard what your kids are exposed to.
2. Set Screen-Free Zones
   Designate areas like bedrooms or the dinner table as screen-free zones. These boundaries create space for connection, rest, and meaningful conversations.
3. Replace Harmful Media with Uplifting Content
   Introduce your kids to wholesome alternatives, like Bible-based cartoons, worship music, or faith-filled podcasts. Fill their minds with messages that point them to God’s love and truth.

A Parent’s Calling
Guiding our children’s media habits isn’t about isolating them from the world—it’s about equipping them to navigate it with wisdom and discernment. By setting godly standards and modeling them ourselves, we give our kids the tools to guard their hearts and honor God in a digital age.
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Because what fills their minds today will shape their hearts forever.