Carol Ofori on Raising Kids in a Digital-First World

Venecia Valentine

As screens become part of everyday life, many South African parents are facing a new challenge. How do you raise children in a world where digital and real life constantly overlap?

For award-winning broadcaster and mom Carol Ofori, the answer lies in balance, structure and ongoing conversation. She shares a clear and honest view on parenting in a digital-first world.

As a mom and a media personality, how would you describe the reality of raising children in today’s digital-first world?

Raising kids today is exceptionally challenging. As a millennial, I grew up without the internet, then experienced dial-up, and now fibre. My children have only known instant, high-speed connectivity. We are a unique generation because we learnt to play outside and regulate our emotions without screens.

Today, everything is immediate and devices are always within reach, which can lead to overexposure and dependency. I have to be intentional about screen time, about encouraging outdoor play and about how we parent. It is also not always safe for children to play outside the way we used to, so we are constantly adapting how we raise them.

What practical rules or boundaries have you put in place at home when it comes to tech and social media?

My children are not on social media yet. They are still too young. We have strict screen time rules. There are no screens from Monday to Friday. Access starts on Friday afternoons.

Each child gets a maximum of two hours per day across all devices, which adds up to about six hours over the weekend. We stick to these rules and encourage reading, interactive play and outdoor activities instead.

At what age do you think it is appropriate for children to start engaging with social media or digital platforms?

This is a difficult decision. I am only now recognising that platforms like WhatsApp are also forms of social media. My son is turning 11 soon. While some of his cousins use WhatsApp, he is not on platforms like Instagram or TikTok. I think it depends on the child and their level of maturity.

Personally, I believe 15 and older is more appropriate for full access, and even then, with strict boundaries. This includes private accounts, content filtering and monitoring interactions. The space can be toxic, so parents need to guide their children carefully.

How do you balance protecting your child while still allowing them to be part of their generation’s reality?

This is the hardest part. The balance comes from open and honest conversations. When issues come up, such as safety concerns on platforms like Roblox, it is important to explain the risks and the reasons behind the rules. When children understand why boundaries exist, they are more likely to make good decisions, even when you are not there.

What challenges have you faced with screen time and how do you manage your own habits?

It is difficult because my work is digital. My children often point out how much time I spend on my phone, but that is how I stay informed and relevant. I try to be intentional. When we are on holiday, I disconnect and focus on family time. Even during short breaks, I make an effort to put my phone away and be present. It is about recognising the moment and choosing to engage with it fully.

What advice would you give to parents who feel overwhelmed?

Start with yourself. Look at your own screen habits and identify where you can improve. It is hard to tell your children to reduce screen time if you are always on your phone. Leading by example is one of the most effective tools you have as a parent. When children see healthy behaviour, they are more likely to follow it.

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