Coffee morning catch-up

Written by Natalie Hollins,

Parent Support Associate

Topic: Navigating Adolescence in a Digital World

Friday, May 16th | 10:00–11:00 AM

A big thank you to everyone who joined us for our very first Virtual Coffee Morning! We spent an hour together sharing thoughts, stories, and ideas about the challenges (and surprises!) of raising teens in today’s tech-filled world. It was informal, open, and full of those “me too!” moments.
If you couldn’t make it – don’t worry! Here’s a recap of what we talked about:

Social media & screen time: A blessing and a curse

Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, has introduced new rules to help create a safer digital environment. We kicked things off by chatting about how technology is everywhere and how hard it is to figure out what is too much screen time. Some parents said their children are on screens from morning ‘till bedtime, and it’s tough to tell the difference between learning, socialising, and zoning out.

We looked at some stats, like the fact that teens can spend up to 9 hours a day online, and that some children are now being given phones at the age of 3! We wholeheartedly agreed that it’s no wonder they feel overwhelmed. Social media can boost confidence one moment and knock it down the next. It’s also so dangerous in the hands of incredibly young children who are so very vulnerable.

We also mentioned that some schools no longer allow phones and that some restrict use to break time etc. We all agreed that it’s about delaying smartphones to protect childhood and mental health. Lots of us agreed that it’s hard to go against the grain, but that more families are questioning the “right age” for a phone – the longer the delay the better!

We are all so glad there were no mobile phones when we were in school that’s for sure!

Talking with teens about tech

This sparked load of ideas! We all shared how tricky it can be to get teens to open up -especially when they’re glued to their screens. But we agreed that asking simple questions like “What’s been funny online today?” or “Who are your favourite YouTubers?” can be great conversation-starters.

One parent said they’ve started having weekly “digital check-ins” around the dinner table- nothing formal, just a space to talk about what’s happening online. It’s something we all thought could work in our homes.

We also discussed how important it is to know your child is safe and where they are. As parents and carers, we worry when we don’t hear from them or know where they are – not because we don’t trust them but because the world we live in can’t be trusted! We mentioned ‘Find my friend’ apps – some free on smartphones and some payable – we all agreed that sharing locations is a great wat of putting our mind at ease.

Boundaries that build trust

Everyone agreed: Setting boundaries is tough but so important. Some parents and carers admitted they felt guilty about limiting screen time, while others said it’s a constant battle. But one key message stood out:

“Teens are watching us. If we can put our phones down, it’s easier to ask them to do the same.”

One parent mentioned creating a “tech-free hour” every evening for the whole family – devices away, time to reconnect. Some also have a designated ‘charging’ area in the house and the understanding that phones can be looked at by parents and carers.

This led to a good laugh about how hard we adults find it to stick to our own rules!

Offline joy: creating safe spaces

We wrapped up by talking about what teens enjoy away from screens. Some love sports or music, while others need a bit of encouragement to try new things.

We chatted about how important it is to help teens find offline confidence, whether through hobbies, fitness groups, reading, or just having time to switch off.

We also talked about positive role models- real or fictional – who show that being offline, or different, is okay.

We all agreed that having other interests is so important so that the ‘phone’ doesn’t become the only thing they do!

Final Thought

“The crisis in adolescence is not just about teenage boys, but about the role of engaged parenting in a digital world.” – Caitlin Moran

This quote really hit home. We all agreed: it’s not about perfect parenting, but present parenting. Being curious, staying connected, and trying to understand what life looks like for our kids, even when it’s filtered through a screen.

Next Coffee Morning?

Topic: Embracing family diversity during Pride Month
Friday, June 27th | 10:00–11:00 AM