2024 ends: Parenting in the digital age requires a healthy mix of old wisdom as well as parenting in the new age. While we need to teach our children the values, ethics and skills they need to navigate life, we also need to implement digital tools to make it relevant to them. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Siddi Ayya, Consultant Psychologist and Habits Coach at Alyve Health, said, “Parenting in 2024 has been a unique combination of ancient parenting wisdom and modern challenges, especially with the ever-expanding role of technology in family life.” Read also | Digital parenting: Solving the challenges of parenting in the digital age
Earlier, Bhaviya Shah, a clinical psychologist at Saifi Hospital, Mumbai, said: “Family life in 2024 is not what it used to be because obviously most things change with time, most of which are said to be technology , and some of them are social. All of this paved an easy path for families when workforce integration, innovative digital literacy and socialization were integrated into them.”
Here are the main parenting trends that will redefine family life in 2024:
Hybrid models of education
The dynamics of families have changed significantly, given the fact that remote and hybrid work has greatly affected life today. This is because research shows that 91% of participants consider telecommuting to be beneficial for family well-being as it helps parents balance work and home. Read also | Parent’s Guide: 10 Effective Strategies for Parents to Develop Digital Literacy in Teens
Digital Literacy for All and All Ages
Now that most digital forms are already a part of our lives, efforts are being made to incorporate digital literacy from a very young age to an older age. For example, 75 percent of children say that technology and the Internet are vital to independence, as their rational parents should help them learn to navigate the digital world.
Extracurricular redefinition
The current trend in families is shifting from organized extracurricular activities to free play and family time. Several parents are concerned about overstimulation and want to develop their children’s creativity and emotional well-being. Read also | 4 tips to boost your child’s intelligence and mental health in the digital age
Strengthening personal ties
Post-pandemic, more attention is usually paid to face-to-face meetings. This includes planning play dates and social events that focus on shared meals and emotional development, as well as supplementing with screen time for screen isolation.
Continue to intentionally separate household chores
This is another emerging trend of involving children in household chores and household decision-making in order to teach them very important life skills and instill in them a sense of responsibility and independence. This suggests that as time approaches the culmination of 2024 and beyond, parenting is proving to be a very modern blend of old and new traditions. Adopting trends into family life allows the family to grow and develop within the current, future-ready structure.
Digital Behavior Management
Digital parenting isn’t about constant surveillance, it’s about providing children with the tools to make the right choices. Parents can start by having open conversations about what’s appropriate online. Read also | Parenting 101: Beyond academics and grades, teach kids these key life skills to grow future leaders
Leading by example
Children imitate what they see. Are you glued to your phone while eating dinner or browsing social media when your child wants to talk? By creating digital-free zones for meals, sleep, or family activities, you send a clear message about the value of real connections.
Stay informed
Technology is developing faster than we can keep up. But learning about the apps and platforms your child uses is worth the effort. It’s not just about control; it’s about understanding their world.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health concerns.
