Screen Wise

Take back control of screen time for toddlers to teens

By: Madonna King

From Australia's leading voice on parenting comes the first comprehensive guide to raising kids in the age of AI, social media and digital life.


We want our kids to grow up valuing themselves and to become confident, kind and curious individuals. The reality is that smartphones and screens now permeate every aspect of childhood, and while they offer connection and opportunity, they also present many challenges – even with Australia's world-first social media ban for under-16s.

Screen Wise is the solutions-based guide for Australian parents and educators, offering a clear path through this global digital experiment. Parenting expert and bestselling author Madonna King has interviewed hundreds of parents, children, educators, police, medical experts and scientists across the country and internationally, for the first time presenting this valuable research with actionable tips and advice.

From social media, AI, apps and computer games to influencers and algorithms, Screen Wise covers:

• what parents need to know about the social media ban (and why it hasn't solved everything)

• how screen time impacts learning, social skills, cognitive development and mental and physical health

• the link between instant gratification and screen addiction (and how to break it)

• how to help kids and teens use AI wisely, develop critical thinking skills, mute bad influences and build healthy screen habits

• how to fortify your kids' defences against cyberbullying, identity theft, sextortion and fraud (and what to do if it happens)

• how to say 'no', delay screen use and set suitable boundaries, whether for the first time or winding them back

• and so much more.

Packed with relatable, real-life stories and practical advice, Screen Wise empowers you to understand and protect your children. Screens aren't going anywhere, but this guide shows you how to take back control to usher your children safely and confidently into the future.©2026 Madonna King (P)2026 W. F. Howes ltd.