Media Literacy Week Raises Awareness About Mindful Screen Use

Screens have become an integral part of our daily lives. But how do you maintain a healthy balance between online and offline life? During Media Literacy Week, the city of Zoetermeer, together with its partners, is drawing special attention to this topic and organizing activities for children, teens, and their parents.

Activities for Youth and Their Parents

For example, children can participate in an offline Fortnite activity, and teens can attend workshops on healthy screen use and media literacy.

Media literacy is also a focus in education. At mboRijnland, actor and influencer Juvat Westendorp will engage with students during a talk show on media literacy, discussing topics such as social media, online influence, and the impact of online behavior.

There are also activities for parents. For example, on November 7, the Zoetermeer Library is organizing the “Superschermchallenge,” where parents and children can learn about healthy screen use in a fun, interactive way. In addition, the organization Mediasmarties is hosting a nationwide webinar for parents with practical tips on healthy screen use.

Media Literacy Week also features activities for professionals. During a symposium, they will discuss the opportunities and challenges of the digital world and how they can support children and young people in navigating it.

Here are a few examples from the program. An overview of all activities in Zoetermeer can be found at mediawijsheid.nl/activiteiten/zoetermeer.

Tips for Parents and Teens

At the walk-in locations of the Meerpunt and at the JGZ Zuid-Holland West health clinic in Zoetermeer, parents can receive advice on media use and screen time. Online resources are also available. Parents and teens can visit the website of the Netherlands Youth Institute for information and tips on media education. Teens looking to strike a better balance between their online and offline lives can also find information on the Digitale Balans platform .

Councilwoman Anne-Lise Olsthoorn emphasizes the importance of mindful screen use: "As adults, we set an example for children every day. That’s why Media Literacy Week is a great opportunity to have a conversation about mindful screen use at the kitchen table at home."