By Jamie Oleka
Entertainment is one of the most powerful influences shaping our children’s values, identity, and worldview. Whether through movies, music, books, or social media, what children consume daily plays a crucial role in their development. In The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt highlights how the digital age has contributed to rising anxiety levels among youth, partly due to the unfiltered and often harmful content they encounter. As parents, we must recognize the impact of entertainment and intentionally guide our children toward content that reinforces the values we hope to pass on.
The Influence of Entertainment on Identity and Faith
Children are like sponges, absorbing the messages embedded in the stories they watch and listen to. When their screens are filled with content that promotes superficiality, fear, or self-doubt, it can shape how they view themselves and the world. But when they engage with entertainment that reinforces faith, kindness, and purpose, it can strengthen their identity in Christ.
Faith-based platforms like Minno offer a refreshing alternative to mainstream media by providing biblically sound content that nurtures children’s spiritual growth. Instead of worrying about what our kids might stumble upon on Netflix, we can turn to trusted platforms that offer stories rooted in truth and love.
What Research Says About Screen Time and Child Development
While entertainment can be a powerful tool for shaping our children’s faith and character, research suggests that when and how kids engage with screen time significantly impacts their well-being. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides these general guidelines:
- Ages 0-2: Avoid screen time except for video chatting. Babies and toddlers need real-world interactions for healthy brain development.
- Ages 2-5: Limit screen time to one hour per day of high-quality programming, ideally co-viewed with a parent to help children understand and engage with the content.
- Ages 6-12: Encourage a balanced approach—no more than 1-2 hours per day of entertainment screen time, ensuring that it doesn’t interfere with sleep, physical activity, or real-life relationships.
- Teenagers: While screen time increases naturally, setting healthy boundaries is essential to prevent excessive social media use, which has been linked to increased anxiety and depression.
Haidt’s research in The Anxious Generation emphasizes that excessive screen time—especially on social media—correlates with higher rates of anxiety and depression in kids and teens. He encourages families to prioritize face-to-face social interactions, outdoor play, and structured activities over passive screen consumption.
As parents, we should frame screen time as a tool rather than a default activity. Watching a Bible-based show together, discussing a faith-filled story, or listening to worship music can make screen time meaningful rather than mindless.
The Role of Parents in Shaping Entertainment Choices
While it may feel overwhelming to filter through the endless sea of entertainment, parents have more influence than they realize. We can:
- Curate Content Intentionally – Choosing shows, books, and music that align with our values can make a significant difference. Platforms like Minno and Pure Flix help ensure kids are consuming media that builds them up.
- Engage in Meaningful Conversations – Instead of simply restricting content, we can discuss with our children why certain messages align (or don’t) with our faith.
- Model Healthy Media Habits – Kids learn by watching us. If they see us engaging with uplifting content and limiting mindless scrolling, they’re more likely to follow suit.
When we share wholesome, faith-filled entertainment options with other families, we contribute to a culture that prioritizes what is true, noble, and good (Philippians 4:8). Instead of letting the digital world dictate our children’s values, we can use entertainment as a tool to shape their faith and character.
Entertainment is not just about passing the time—it’s about shaping the hearts and minds of the next generation. By being intentional about what our children consume, we can guide our children toward entertainment that strengthens the values we hope to pass on.
Additionally, research reminds us that moderation and mindful screen use are key. Entertainment should complement, not replace, real-life relationships, outdoor play, and faith-building moments.
We have the power to make entertainment a force for good in our children’s lives. Let’s use it wisely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jamie Oleka, Christ follower, wife, and mother, has extensive experience in K-12 and nonprofit management having most recently served as a Senior Fellow at Kentucky’s Council on Postsecondary Education. Jamie holds a Masters of Education in Instructional Accommodations from Francis Marion University, Masters of Arts in Teaching, and Ed.S. in K-12 Administration from the University of Louisville.
