Parents and educators are becoming increasingly aware of the dangers of unsupervised screen use, especially in the context of Adolescence.

However, the issue goes beyond screens and requires an understanding of what humans and children truly need.

At our core, we all have a fundamental need to feel seen, heard, and understood - an essential foundation for healthy emotional and neurological development, especially from childhood. 

When a secure attachment figure, such as a parent, is unavailable, children naturally seek connection elsewhere, often turning to their peers. However, because peers are also navigating their own developmental challenges, they may not provide the stability and co-regulation a child requires.

Research in neuroscience underscores the critical role of a parent’s attuned engagement in shaping a child’s brain architecture, nurturing emotional resilience, and strengthening their sense of self.

Through shared experiences, responsive interactions, and quality time, parents create a secure foundation that supports emotional regulation, social competence, and a deep sense of belonging.

Hattennoki’s V.O.I.C.E.S. is a new segment designed for all. It provides insights centered on Voice, Open-mindedness, Inspiration beyond Information, Courage, Empathy, and Support. Its purpose is to guide self-improvement, helping individuals grow into more effective parents, caregivers, educators, and leaders.

Here are Hattennoki’s first two V.O.I.C.E.S, focusing on inclusion and co-regulation:

✅ Inclusion brings belonging, connection, and respect. Feeling included helps people be themselves, strengthening relationships, teamwork, and positivity. It reduces loneliness and conflict. Kindness and valuing others are best learned through modeling.

✅ Co-regulation helps individuals manage emotions, behaviors, and physiological states through support. Essential for development, it lets children rely on caregivers for soothing and guidance - like rocking a baby or offering comfort. Over time, these experiences build self-regulation skills.

Ever seen a teacher breathe with an upset child? A parent kneel to a child’s level and say, “I’m listening” during a tantrum? A partner reassure the another with, “You got this”? These moments of co-regulation shape emotional resilience.

Because the prefrontal cortex - responsible for self-regulation - continues developing into early adulthood, supportive social interactions are crucial for strengthening neural pathways linked to emotional and behavioral regulation.

I believe it’s just as important to develop an understanding of concepts like inclusion throughout society, emphasize the need for parental presence to guide children, recognize the necessity of having a safe, caring, and informed adult rather than just another friend or provider, and support co-regulation, as it is to navigate the brutal cyberspace for everyone.