Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege

Gastric balloon explained: Dr. Berhane Redae on the 15-minute weight loss procedure now in Rwanda (Video)

In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Dr. Berhane Redae, a consultant endoscopic surgeon at KFHR, revealed that the procedure was introduced locally to save patients the cost and inconvenience of seeking the service abroad.

“Gastric balloon placement is a well-established global procedure. For years, patients had to travel to Kenya, Turkey, or elsewhere just to get it done. Now, everything is available here in Rwanda,” said Dr. Redae.

The procedure involves placing a silicone balloon inside the stomach using an endoscope. Once inserted, the balloon is filled with sterile water, occupying space in the stomach and helping patients feel full faster. The result is reduced food intake, smaller portions, and steady weight loss over several months.

According to Dr. Redae, the entire process, from preparation to recovery, takes less than an hour. The balloon itself is inserted in 15 to 20 minutes under light sedation, and the patient can return home the same day.

“We use anaesthesia and so the patient sleeps and feels no pain or discomfort,” he explained. “It’s far less invasive than surgery and completely reversible.”

The gastric balloon remains in the stomach for about six months. During this period, patients are encouraged to adopt healthier habits, particularly around portion control, physical activity, and nutrition.

“The gastric balloon is reversible,” Dr. Redae explained. “If the patient doesn’t follow the recommended lifestyle changes, they can regain the weight, just like with surgery. The idea is that during the six months it’s in place, the patient adapts to a new lifestyle. If they maintain that lifestyle, the weight loss is sustainable.”

{{Who is it for?
}}

The ideal candidates for this procedure are adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 27 and 40, typically individuals classified as overweight or moderately obese. For those with a BMI above 50, Dr. Redae says additional interventions such as surgery may be more suitable.

The expected average weight loss is about 15% of a patient’s starting weight, though outcomes vary depending on personal discipline, diet, and activity levels. “For someone who weighs 100 kg, they might lose around 15 kg within the balloon’s placement period,” said Dr. Redae.

{{Safety and aftercare
}}

Dr. Redae reassures patients that the procedure is among the safest weight loss interventions available.

“It doesn’t permanently alter the body. If necessary, we can remove the balloon early without complications.”

Complications, though rare, may include nausea, discomfort, or, in very rare cases, balloon leakage (deflation). Patients are educated on warning signs and have access to follow-up care throughout the six-month period.

“It’s a very well-proven silicone product. It won’t burst easily,” Dr. Redae said. “But if there’s a manufacturing defect and water leaks, it can result in dyspepsia or other self-destruction signs, which may happen.”

King Faisal Hospital offers scheduled follow-up appointments at one week, one month, three months, and six months to monitor patient progress, provide nutritional counselling, and support long-term success.

{{Cost }}

At present, the gastric balloon itself must be purchased out-of-pocket from pharmacies, though the endoscopic procedure is covered by medical insurance. Dr. Redae believes that, in time, insurers will begin recognising the value of obesity treatment.

“Obesity is not just a cosmetic issue, it’s a disease,” he said. “By helping people lose weight, we reduce the risk of diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and joint problems. It’s preventive medicine.”

With rising urbanisation, sedentary lifestyles, and changing dietary habits, obesity is becoming an increasingly pressing health issue in Rwanda, much like in many parts of the world. Dr. Redae believes the gastric balloon is a crucial tool in addressing this challenge.

“This is just one tool,” Dr. Redae said. “But it’s a valuable one, especially for people who’ve struggled with other weight loss options.”

For those considering the procedure, Dr. Redae’s advice is for them to start with a consultation.

“Come in, talk to a physician, and we’ll work with you to find the best path forward.”

Watch the full interview with Dr. Berhane Redae on our YouTube channel.

July 18, 2025
From gut to greens: Simple ways to boost immunity naturally

Yet experts emphasise that no supplement or superfood can replace the powerful effects of healthy daily habits. Building immunity naturally requires a combination of good nutrition, rest, exercise, stress management, and lifestyle choices, as highlighted by leading global health organisations like the World Health Organisation (WHO) and institutions such as Harvard Medical School.

{{Colourful plates, stronger defences
}}

A well-functioning immune system requires a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Fruits and vegetables provide essential nutrients like vitamin C, which supports immune cell function. Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and leafy greens are especially good sources of this vitamin.

“A healthy immune system needs good, regular nourishment. To give your immune system the upper hand, make an effort to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit saturated fat,” Harvard Health Publishing advises.

Beyond vitamin C, nutrients like vitamin A, zinc, and vitamin E play crucial roles in maintaining healthy immune responses. For instance, carrots, sweet potatoes, nuts, seeds, legumes, and spinach all offer important vitamins and minerals that help fight infections. According to the National Institutes of Health, consuming a diverse range of plant foods helps supply the body with antioxidants that reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.

{{Sleep is your nighttime defence system
}}

According to research published by the National Institutes of Health in January 2009, sleep is vital for proper immune function because the body produces infection-fighting proteins called cytokines during deep rest. People who consistently sleep fewer than seven hours per night have a higher risk of falling ill after being exposed to viruses like the common cold.

Good sleep hygiene, such as keeping a consistent bedtime, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a comfortable sleep environment, is a simple yet powerful way to help the immune system stay strong.

{{Move to protect your health
}}

According to the American College of Sports Medicine, moderate exercise like brisk walking, cycling, or dancing improves circulation, allowing immune cells to travel more efficiently throughout the body. Regular movement lowers inflammation and helps the immune system respond more quickly to infections.

However, experts caution that extreme physical exertion, particularly without adequate rest, can temporarily weaken immune function. Therefore, balance is crucial; moderate, consistent activity is far more beneficial than occasional intense exercise.

{{Manage stress
}}

According to the American Psychological Association, chronic stress can increase the production of cortisol, a hormone that suppresses immune function and makes the body more vulnerable to infections. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, prayer, and deep breathing have been shown to reduce stress levels significantly.

Cultural traditions around the world, from Scandinavian Forest walks to Asian tai chi to African communal singing and dancing, emphasise the importance of emotional well-being in maintaining health. These practices not only promote mental health but also contribute to stronger immunity.

{{Hydration is essential for immune function
}}

Staying hydrated helps the body produce lymph, the fluid that carries immune cells and essential nutrients. Even mild dehydration can weaken concentration, physical performance, and immune defence mechanisms.

While the amount of fluid needed varies depending on climate, activity level, and individual needs, health authorities universally recommend water as the best source of hydration. Herbal teas, natural broths, and fruit-infused water can also support hydration without excess sugar.

{{Gut health
}}

The gut houses nearly 70% of the body’s immune cells, making gut health fundamental to overall immunity. A balanced gut microbiome helps regulate inflammation, fend off harmful pathogens, and support healthy immune responses.

Probiotics found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and traditional fermented beverages from different cultures can help maintain this balance. Additionally, fibre-rich foods like legumes, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables feed beneficial bacteria and strengthen the gut lining, further protecting the immune system.

{{Avoid harmful habits
}}

According to the WHO, smoking damages immune function and increases susceptibility to respiratory infections, while excessive alcohol intake weakens the body’s defences and heightens the risk of conditions like pneumonia. Health authorities globally advise reducing or eliminating smoking and drinking in order to protect immunity and overall well-being.

{{Supplements: helpful or not?
}}

While many people turn to supplements for immune health, the National Institutes of Health states that most individuals who eat a balanced diet don’t need extra vitamins or minerals. However, deficiencies such as low vitamin D levels in people living in regions with limited sunlight may warrant supplementation under medical supervision.

It’s important to remember that no single supplement can “boost” the immune system instantly. According to Harvard Medical School, a healthy lifestyle remains the cornerstone of strong immune function, and supplements should never replace nutritious food.

Across the world, experts agree that a powerful immune system isn’t built overnight. It’s the product of daily habits like eating a colourful, nutrient-rich diet, getting enough rest, exercising moderately, managing stress, staying hydrated, and avoiding harmful substances.

By embracing these natural strategies, we equip our bodies to fight not only seasonal infections.

July 17, 2025
President Ruto hosts Gen (Rtd) Kabarebe for Rwanda-Kenya bilateral talks

Gen Kabarebe, who is also President Paul Kagame’s Special Envoy, held wide-ranging discussions with President Ruto, reaffirming the warm and enduring ties between Kenya and Rwanda.

“We held a productive meeting reaffirming the strong and growing ties between our two nations,” President Ruto said in a statement.

“Our discussions covered a wide range of bilateral and regional issues, with a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation in peace and security, trade, and regional integration.”

The meeting comes amid continued efforts by both countries to deepen collaboration across political, economic, and security sectors. Kenya and Rwanda, longstanding partners within the East African Community (EAC), enjoy cordial relations rooted in history and shared aspirations for regional stability and prosperity.

Diplomatic relations between the two countries date back to 1965, with Kenya establishing its mission in Kigali in 1986.

Over the years, the two nations have signed numerous Memoranda of Understanding under the Joint Permanent Commission framework, spanning key areas such as air transport, education, agriculture, security, governance, civil service, immigration, justice, and correctional services.

Economic ties between Kenya and Rwanda have also grown significantly. Kenya remains a critical trade partner and a vital transit route for Rwanda’s imports and exports through the port of Mombasa.

In return, Rwanda offers a stable and attractive destination for Kenyan businesses, with Kenyan companies active in sectors including banking, insurance, construction, agribusiness, education, aviation, and tourism.

Currently, more than 6,000 Kenyans live and work in Rwanda.

July 17, 2025
Lupita Nyong’o opens up about her battle with uterine fibroids

In a detailed social media post, Nyong’o revealed that she underwent surgery to remove 30 fibroids, describing the experience as both physically and emotionally challenging. Despite the procedure, doctors informed her that there was little she could do to prevent the fibroids from returning.

“When we reach puberty, we are taught that periods mean pain, and that pain is simply a part of being a woman,” Nyong’o wrote. “We must reject the normalisation of female pain.”

Uterine fibroids are benign tumours that grow in or around the uterus. While non-cancerous, they can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, anaemia, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and complications during pregnancy.

The condition affects an estimated 70% of white women and up to 90% of Black women by the age of 50, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Nyong’o’s announcement sheds light on what she describes as a widespread but underdiscussed health issue.

“We are struggling alone with something that affects most of us,” she stated, urging more open conversations and better access to care.

The Kenyan-Mexican actress, best known for her Oscar-winning performance in 12 Years a Slave, is now leveraging her public platform to advocate for policy change. She recently joined U.S. lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to support a package of congressional bills aimed at expanding research, improving early diagnosis, and funding less invasive treatment options for uterine fibroids.

In addition to legislative efforts, Nyong’o announced plans to launch a Uterine Fibroid Research Grant to help develop innovative treatments and improve the quality of life for the estimated 15 million women living with the condition in the U.S.

Her advocacy aligns with a growing movement to address racial disparities in women’s healthcare. Studies have shown that Black women not only develop fibroids at younger ages but often suffer more severe symptoms and face longer delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Nyong’o said it wasn’t until she began sharing her experience privately that she realised how widespread the issue was.

“No more suffering in silence,” she declared.

July 17, 2025
Sauti Sol guitarist ‘Fancy Fingers’ opens up about life after band hiatus (Video)

Following Sauti Sol’s indefinite hiatus announced in May 2023, Fancy Fingers discussed navigating life after global tours, the rise of Rwandan artists, and the cultural threads binding East Africa, all while showcasing his innovative Jawaya guitar in a Nairobi studio.

Sauti Sol, formed in 2005 by Fancy Fingers, Bien-Aimé Baraza, Willis Chimano, and Savara Mudigi, redefined African music with their storytelling and harmonious blend of Afro-pop, jazz, and traditional rhythms.

After nearly two decades of hits like “Suzanna” and “Kuliko Jana,” the band paused music production to focus on individual pursuits. “We haven’t broken up per se. It’s a hiatus, mostly for music,” Fancy Fingers clarified, emphasizing that the group remains united through ventures like Sol Generation Records, Sol Fest, and other businesses under the Sauti Sol Group.

These enterprises, he noted, keep the band’s legacy active and fuel their continued collaboration. For Fancy Fingers, the hiatus marks a challenging yet exciting transition.

“We’ve not known any other life than the band,” he admitted, describing the need to “put in four times the work” to build his solo identity.

Previously defined by his intricate guitar work, he is now exploring songwriting, production, and themes like African fatherhood. “I’m discovering who I am in music, what my brand is,” he said, aiming to make a “legendary impact” by mentoring young artists and advancing the industry.

His recent solo work, produced in the same Nairobi studio where the interview was recorded, reflects this evolution.

Fancy Fingers’ journey into music defied traditional expectations. Enrolled in actuarial science, a math-heavy course, he juggled university with Sauti Sol’s tours, often missing classes for months.

“Music is very stubborn. If you’re given the gift, it has to come out,” he said, recalling how he paid his school fees through gigs and graduated with honours, though his passion remained with music.

This persistence, he believes, is shifting African parental views on creative careers, with more families now supporting artistic pursuits, “intrepreneurial spirit.

“I paid my school fees through music, as little as it was at that time,” he noted, highlighting how his early success eased parental concerns.

A highlight of the interview was Fancy Fingers’ introduction of the Jawaya guitar, the first premium African guitar brand, crafted from African mahogany and spruce in partnership with Canadian company Graphtech.

“There aren’t African music brands like Yamaha or Fender,” he said, explaining how his childhood dream of building instruments inspired Jawaya’s creation to empower young musicians.

The conversation also explored East Africa’s cultural and musical landscape. Fancy Fingers praised Rwanda’s growing music scene, naming artists like Kivumbi, Bruce Melodie, and Angel Mutoni as global contenders.

“Rwanda is doing something right,” he said, crediting their investment in artist development.

He stressed the power of collaboration, noting that Sauti Sol’s success stemmed from projects like their album featuring “Melanin.”

However, he warned against diluting African identity for global appeal.

“Elevate it, don’t put it aside,” he advised, advocating for authentic storytelling fused with modern production.

Fancy Fingers described East African culture as unified by language, food, and music’s storytelling tradition.

“We’re very melodious, storytellers,” he said, pointing to the region’s choir-influenced, harmony-rich sound. Kenyan music’s edge, he added, comes from Nairobi’s cosmopolitan diversity, where tribal influences blend seamlessly.

“You just jam,” he said, recalling Sauti Sol’s formation without regard for members’ origins.

As a father to a four-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Fancy Fingers emphasised exposing children to diverse activities to uncover their talents.

“Exposure is everything,” he said, noting that his daughter, surrounded by music, is still exploring her interests.

Fatherhood, he shared, has transformed him, fostering greater empathy and love. “It brings out a you that you didn’t know was there,” he told Sanny.

Looking ahead, Fancy Fingers plans to bring Jawaya to Kigali for an acoustic show, potentially in October, to connect with fans and media.

Watch the full episode on The Long Form podcast.

July 17, 2025
Jehovah’s Witnesses to hold major global convention in Rwanda for the first time

The three-day event, scheduled for August 8–10, 2025, will take place at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali. It marks the first time Rwanda has been selected to host this global gathering, one of several international conventions organised this year in 13 selected countries worldwide.

According to the organisers, the convention will centre on the theme of serving God in a way that aligns with biblical principles.

“In a world full of challenges, worshipping God in a way that pleases Him can provide hope and resilience,” said François Regis Migambi, spokesperson for Jehovah’s Witnesses in Rwanda.

“Many people long to worship God acceptably and grow in their faith. This convention will explore how that can be achieved and how it can positively impact our daily lives and future outlook.”

The programme will feature Bible-based talks, multimedia presentations, and a three-part film titled “The Good News About Jesus,” depicting scenes from Jesus’ life on Earth. Each part of the film will be shown on a different day of the convention.

All sessions will be available in Kinyarwanda, English, French, and Rwandan Sign Language, ensuring accessibility for a diverse audience. Organisers note that participation is free of charge, and no collections or donations will be solicited, in line with the Witnesses’ global convention policy.

Beyond the spiritual focus, international delegates are expected to take part in tourism activities in Kigali and various scenic locations across Rwanda. Organisers say the event will offer opportunities for cultural exchange, fellowship, and strengthening of global ties within the faith community.

Jean Marie Vianney Mutezintare, a Jehovah’s Witness in Rwanda, recalled attending a similar convention in Kenya in 2009.

“We’re excited to finally experience this here at home,” he said. “Welcoming people from different cultures and sharing our faith together will be a memorable experience.”

Jehovah’s Witnesses began operating in Rwanda in 1970 and were officially registered in 1992.

July 17, 2025
Fatakumavuta seeks lighter sentence after shifting stance on conviction

Vlogger Sengabo Jean Bosco, popularly known as Fatakumavuta, has appealed his recent conviction by the Nyarugenge Intermediate Court, which handed him a two-year and six-month prison sentence along with a fine of Frw 1,300,000.

In a formal appeal submitted to the High Council of the Judiciary on July 10, 2025, Fatakumavuta requested a review of the ruling, seeking a reduced or suspended sentence on humanitarian grounds.

Initially, during his trial, Fatakumavuta had denied all charges brought against him. However, in his appeal, he changed his stance, acknowledging the crimes and offering an apology to both the individuals he offended, particularly artists, and the broader Rwandan society.

“I initially pleaded not guilty to all charges, but the court found me guilty on some counts and sentenced me to two years and six months, along with a fine of Frw 1.3 million,” he wrote. “I was not satisfied with the ruling, which is why I have appealed.”

He added: “I fully accept the charges for which I was convicted and extend my sincere apologies to those affected and to the Rwandan public at large.”

Alongside his appeal, Fatakumavuta submitted a medical report confirming that he has diabetes. Citing health concerns, he requested that his prison sentence be reduced by half and that the fine be lowered to a quarter of the original amount.

On June 13, 2025, the Nyarugenge Intermediate Court found him guilty of spreading false information, issuing threats, defamation, and drug use. The case has drawn significant public attention, and the outcome of his appeal is now being closely watched.

July 17, 2025
“Leave him alone” – Miss Naomie claps back at trolls claiming her husband is poor

In a fiery Instagram Live session, Naomie dismissed the chatter, saying she’s happily married and that no one entrusted her husband to the public.

The backlash comes after some social media users shared photos of Tesfay boarding a public bus, sparking online claims that the beauty queen had married a man of modest means.

Naomie, however, wasn’t having any of it.

“Where do you expect him to go? Just leave him alone,” she said during the live broadcast. “And whenever you see him, keep your mouth shut. I’ll even help you out by buying something called ‘Super Glue’—so next time you see him at night, just stay silent. As for me, say whatever you want. I heard some of you saying he’s poor!”

She went on to question the logic behind the criticism, pointing out that her husband has never appeared on social media asking for help.

“Have you ever seen him come online to beg? Have I ever said something’s wrong with him? No. So please, leave him alone. When I posted him, did I ever say ‘take him’? He’s mine. This is the face of a happy woman, not someone who’s struggling.”

Naomie and Michael tied the knot on December 29 2024, and since then, she hasn’t hesitated to show her followers just how content she is with her choice.

“God gave me the man I prayed for,” she’s said repeatedly, making it clear that love, not public opinion, is what defines their union.

July 17, 2025
UN humanitarians say dozens killed while seeking food in Gaza

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said there were reports of dozens of people killed or injured Wednesday at one of those hubs.

“In the past week, severe injuries continued to be reported among people seeking aid,” OCHA said. “The World Health Organization (WHO) reported one instance where a 21-year-old man was paralyzed for life after being shot while trying to collect a bag of flour from one of the militarized hubs.”

The WHO was referring to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), founded by a private U.S. group and currently funded by the U.S. government. Contrary to established international humanitarian norms for distributing relief in local communities, the GHF set up four sites in the whole of Gaza in restricted Israeli military zones, where starving civilians enter through fenced lanes under the eyes of armed security contractors. Chaos results in gunfire.

OCHA said that months of escalating hostilities in Gaza have increased risks for the most vulnerable, including people with disabilities and older adults, who struggle to access what they need to survive.

The humanitarians said one of their partners found in a survey that more than 80 percent of people with disabilities in Gaza have lost wheelchairs, hearing aids, walkers and other assistive devices, having to endure many challenges, including the denial of access to humanitarian aid, discrimination, stigmatization and exposure to explosive ordnance.

The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) reported that domestic violence, sexual exploitation and abuse are on the rise in the Gaza Strip. Several safe spaces offering shelter, psychological support and coping mechanisms for women and girls have shut down or are functioning at reduced capacity.

UNFPA reported that the situation in Gaza is harrowing for women and girls. Pregnant women are delivering babies in the dark, with no electricity and no skilled care to treat potential complications. Thousands of mothers are starving.

OCHA said that in Al Mawasi and Gaza City, Doctors Without Borders reported treating more than 1,200 pregnant, breastfeeding women and children with severe and moderate malnutrition in their clinics. Between May and July, the number of people enrolled for treatment at its Gaza City clinic quadrupled, including hundreds of children under the age of 2, said the organization.

OCHA said that while small quantities of fuel entered Gaza again on Tuesday through the Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem border crossing, severe supply shortages continue to threaten life-saving operations at hospitals, medical services and equipment, as well as telecommunications and water, sanitation and hygiene facilities.

“In northern Gaza, partners rehabilitated a well to try to address critical water shortages,” OCHA said. “Although this will hopefully support patients and medical staff with hundreds of cubic meters every day, it is far from sufficient to meet people’s needs.”

UN agencies and their partners reiterated that hundreds of thousands of liters of fuel are critically needed every day to alleviate the crisis and address a dire situation.

OCHA said that after four months of sweeping Israeli restrictions on the entry of humanitarian assistance into Gaza, nearly all displacement sites reported people sleeping in the open, with no means of protection. No shelter supplies have entered during this period.

“This catastrophic situation must end. A ceasefire is long overdue,” said the humanitarian office.

July 17, 2025
8 parenting tips for managing screen time for Children

“Improving physical activity, reducing sedentary time and ensuring quality sleep in young children will improve their physical, mental health and wellbeing, and help prevent childhood obesity and associated diseases later in life,” said Dr. Fiona Bull, WHO programme manager for surveillance and population-based prevention of noncommunicable diseases, when the new guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for children under 5 years of age were released in April 2019.

Experts at Harvard Medical School note that the goal is not to eliminate screens entirely but to create healthy boundaries that support a child’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

{{1. Understand recommended screen time limits}}

Paediatricians from the American Academy of Paediatrics advise that children younger than two years should avoid screen time entirely, except for video chatting with family.

For children aged two to five, screen use should be limited to one hour per day of high-quality content, ideally co-viewed with a parent to help children understand and apply what they see. Older children and teens should also have limits to ensure screens do not replace sleep, physical activity, or real-life social interactions.

2. {{Model healthy screen habits yourself}}

According to psychologists at the American Psychological Association, children learn a great deal from observing their parents. Demonstrating healthy digital habits, yourself—like putting your phone away during meals or family conversations—sets a strong example. Parents who show balance and intentionality in their own screen use help children develop similar self-control.

{{3. Create screen-free zones and times
}}

Experts from Mayo Clinic recommend establishing clear boundaries around device use. Declaring certain areas like bedrooms or dining rooms as screen-free zones helps protect sleep and family connection.

Additionally, setting times when screens are turned off, such as during meals or an hour before bedtime, promotes better rest and stronger family bonds.

{{4. Choose high-quality content
}}

Media specialists from Common Sense Media suggest that not all screen time is created equal. Choosing educational, age-appropriate, and positive content is crucial.

Co-viewing programs or apps with your child allows you to discuss what they’re seeing, answer questions, and help them think critically about media messages.

{{5. Encourage alternative activities
}}

Harvard Medical School highlights that when children have engaging alternatives to screen time, it becomes easier to set limits. Encourage hobbies, outdoor play, reading, and creative activities. These pursuits not only reduce screen dependency but also support cognitive development, social skills, and emotional health.

{{6. Communicate openly about technology use
}}

Experts at the American Academy of Paediatrics advise parents to involve children in creating screen rules.

Having open discussions about why limits are important fosters cooperation and helps kids understand the benefits of moderation. Older children, especially teens, are more likely to respect guidelines when they feel heard and included in the decision-making process.

{{7. Use technology to manage technology
}}

Technology can help parents enforce healthy habits. Specialists from the National Institutes of Health note that many devices offer parental controls to limit usage times, block certain apps, or track screen time. These tools provide structure while giving children the chance to learn self-regulation skills gradually.

{{8. Watch for signs of problematic use
}}

Psychologists warn that excessive screen use can sometimes signal deeper issues like anxiety, loneliness, or stress.

Parents are encouraged to watch for signs such as irritability when screens are removed, declining school performance, or withdrawal from family and friends. If these occur, it may be helpful to consult a healthcare professional or counsellor.

Experts worldwide agree that screens are an inevitable part of modern childhood, but balance is crucial. Creating healthy habits around technology helps children enjoy its benefits without sacrificing sleep, learning, or relationships.

Parents who combine clear boundaries, quality content, and plenty of offline activities empower their children to grow up digitally savvy and emotionally healthy.

Supporting kids in managing their screen use is one of the most powerful ways to ensure their well-being and help them develop a balanced, fulfilling life both online and offline.

July 17, 2025