Government Bans Won’t Save Our Kids — Engaged Parents Will - June 26, 2026

Give Us Your FeedbackGovernment bans on social media might sound tough, but they’re not actually keeping teens offline. In this Daily Update, Reuel looks at Australia’s failed experiment, a long‑term study on parental monitoring, and what that means for families here in New Hanover County. He explains why real change comes from engaged moms and dads who understand their kids’ digital lives, not politicians passing feel‑good laws. If we want healthier relationships with technology, parents—not bureaucrats—have to step up.What you’ll learn / Key moments00:01 – Why social media bans in Australia haven’t stopped teens from logging on.00:19 – How the British Medical Journal describes platforms designed to keep kids hooked.00:51 – A 15‑year study showing the long‑term impact of parental involvement online.01:38 – New Hanover County’s stricter device rules and North Carolina’s classroom phone ban.02:04 – Why being a real parent—not just a “follower”—is the best defense against digital harm.What you can doIf you’re a parent, don’t wait for Raleigh or Washington to fix your child’s online world—start by being present in it. Know which apps they use, talk openly about how those platforms work, and set age‑appropriate boundaries that you actually enforce. Move from being a fan, subscriber, or follower of your child’s online presence to being a calm, consistent guide who helps them build healthy digital habits. And along the way, set the example: put your own phone down, look your kids in the eye, and show them that real life—and real family—matters more than any screen.Support the show