The Importance of Parental Supervision During School Holidays
As school holidays approach, the content manager of digital at Vision Group, Penlope Nankunda, has emphasized the need for parents to actively monitor and supervise what their children watch on television. According to Nankunda, while holidays are a time for rest and fun, they also represent a period when young people tend to spend significantly more time on electronic devices.
“I believe technology is our greatest tool for progress, but like any powerful tool, it must be handled with care and responsibility. When you go for the holiday and you get access to the tabs, to the TV, and phones, always remember, technology is like a delicious cake. A little bit is good. But too much is dangerous,” Nankunda advised children.
Encouraging Creative Use of Technology
In addition to this warning, Nankunda encouraged children to use their tablets for creative purposes such as finding designs and creating artwork, drawing cartoon strips, and writing stories. She further suggested that they engage in educational games, digital books, and creative software that stimulate thinking and creativity.
“Let us move beyond just saying no screen time. Instead, sit with your child and explore the digital world with them. If they are playing a game, ask them what that game is about and what they learned from it,” Nankunda advised parents.
A Platform for Learning and Creativity
These remarks were made during an art and technology exhibition held at Gayaza Junior School’s Jjungo Campus in Nakawuka, Wakiso district, on November 8, 2025. The event was under the theme “Empowering the Skills and Culture in a Girl Child.” During the lively cultural presentation, children not only knelt when mentioning the names of their parents but were also thoroughly taught about their cultural backgrounds and practices.
Addressing the Dangers of Unsupervised Technology Use
Given the many harmful influences associated with technology, Nankunda mentioned that Vision Group is launching a project to teach both parents and children about responsible technology use during the holidays.
“The world we live in demands citizens who are creative, confident, and digitally aware. Let the work we saw today inspire every decision we make regarding our children’s education and their interaction with the digital world, especially as they head into their holidays,” stated Nankunda, who represented the Editor-in-Chief of Vision Group, Barbara Kaija.
The Role of Parents in Digital Education
Sarah Tebugulwa Kizito, another voice in the discussion, highlighted the issue of parental neglect. She revealed that due to this neglect, unusual behavior among children has been observed. Kizito noted that although some parents use codes to restrict children from accessing certain channels, this is often ineffective.
According to Kizito, children are smart enough to unlock the passwords, watch the channels of their choice, and switch back when they sense their parents are about to return.
Advice for Parents
“As you focus on making money, prioritize your child so that they become a better person. To ensure your children’s safety, get to know their friends and the neighbours they visit when you are away,” Kizito advised parents.
Key Takeaways for Families
- Monitor screen timeand encourage responsible use of technology.
- Engage with your childby exploring digital content together.
- Promote creativitythrough educational games, digital books, and artistic activities.
- Stay involvedin your child’s life, including their social interactions and digital habits.
- Educate yourselfon how to manage technology use effectively.
By taking these steps, parents can help their children navigate the digital world safely and productively, ensuring that school holidays are both enjoyable and enriching.