NACADA urges parents to monitor children’s online activities
By Valerian Khakayi, July 3, 2026The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s online activities, warning that exposure to harmful digital content could influence attitudes and behaviours related to alcohol and drug use.
In a public advisory issued on Friday, July 3, 2026, the authority said digital supervision has become an essential part of modern parenting as children spend more time on smartphones, tablets and other internet-connected devices.
According to NACADA, while the internet offers valuable opportunities for learning, communication and entertainment, it also exposes children to content that may negatively shape their behaviour if left unchecked.
“Digital Supervision – Protecting Your Child in the Online World. Monitor and guide your child’s digital activities during the school break. Exposure to harmful online content can influence attitudes and behaviours related to alcohol and drug use,” NACADA urged.
The authority encouraged parents to take an active role in guiding their children’s online experiences rather than leaving them to navigate the digital world on their own.
“Digital supervision is an important aspect of modern parenting,” NACADA added.
Recommended measures for parents
Among the measures recommended by NACADA is knowing the social media platforms, websites and applications that children use regularly. Parents were also advised to set reasonable screen time limits and establish clear boundaries on internet use during the school holidays.
The authority further urged parents to have regular conversations with their children about online safety and the risks associated with harmful digital content, including material that promotes alcohol and drug abuse.
NACADA also encouraged parents to remain engaged by taking an interest in who their children communicate with online and the type of content they watch or consume on various digital platforms.
“We encourage parents to know what platforms their child is using, set screen time limits and boundaries; discuss online safety and the risks of harmful content; stay engaged – ask who they’re talking to and what they’re watching; and be a trusted adult they can turn to if they encounter something concerning online,” the authority outlined.
In addition, the authority said parents should strive to create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing anything they encounter online that makes them feel unsafe, confused or concerned.
“The digital world is a powerful tool – but it also comes with risks,” NACADA said, urging parents to stay informed and involved in their children’s digital lives.
The authority emphasised that active digital supervision not only helps protect children from harmful online influences but also promotes safer internet use and supports healthy decision-making both online and offline.
“Stay involved. Stay informed. Protect your child online and offline,” NACADA added.