Digital technology has transformed the way children, youth, and families connect, learn, and access support. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital adoption, increasing online learning, social interactions, and mental health resources. Artificial intelligence (AI) is now shaping education, healthcare, and personalized content, offering both opportunities and risks. While technology enhances communication and learning, at times digital technology can present challenges for children, youth, or their families.
The Growing Up Online Toolkit provides information and resources including digital technology screening and assessment tools, for service providers to support children, youth, and families navigate the digital world safely and effectively.
For information for children, youth, parents, and caregivers, visit Growing Up Online - MyHealth.Alberta.ca.
ON THIS PAGE:
Process Addiction | Problematic Use of Digital Technology | Trends in Digital Use | Special Considerations | Youth Voices | Screening & Assessment Tools | Service Provider Resources | Summary | Contact
Addiction research has traditionally focused on substance use disorders. Non-substance related concerns, such as behavioural or process addictions, are less commonly understood, especially in children and youth.
Since digital technology is deeply integrated into young people’s daily lives, it is crucial to understand their online activities. Service providers and families should be aware that excessive screen time may negatively impact children and youth.
Problematic use of digital technology is defined as any digital activity that causes significant distress to emotional and physical well-being, and which has a negative impact on day-to-day life.
Relevant and practical information on emerging trends and terminology related to digital technology use. Informed by insights from the World Health Organization, covering key areas such as:
While developing this toolkit several related topics emerged as important areas of interest and relevance in understanding the problematic use of digital technology in children and youth. These include cultural considerations, the experiences of LGBTQ+ community, self-harm, and suicide-related online content.
In a world that increasingly values inclusion, diversity, and equity, it is essential for service providers to remain mindful of these factors and respond with cultural sensitivity, awareness of identity-based experiences, and trauma-informed approaches.
While most youth do not engage with this content, those who do face significantly increased risks. Warning signs of self-harm are listed to aid early identification. Service providers are encouraged to assess self-harm and suicidal ideation, particularly in relation to digital technology, to ensure safety and appropriate care.
A selection of tools designed to help service providers assess potential risks, patterns of use, and areas requiring support or intervention. These tools can guide early detection and inform individualized care planning.
The development of the Growing Up Online Toolkit involved input from Alberta Health Services (AHS) programs, service providers, and youth. Recognizing that youth perspectives are essential in shaping meaningful and relevant services, Child, Youth & Family Initiatives (CYFI) conducted targeted consultations with young people to ensure their voices were central to the toolkit’s creation.
General resources intended for service providers who support children, youth and families in navigating digital technology use.
Digital technology use among children and youth presents both benefits and challenges. While substance use has historically dominated addiction research, non-substance-related concerns, such as gaming, social media, online pornography, and online gambling are gaining recognition, particularly within youth populations.
The toolkit explores patterns of use that may signal a need for attention or support, especially when digital habits lead to:
By understanding these challenges, service providers can engage with youth in more informed, supportive, and developmentally appropriate ways.
Provides a clear and concise summary of the toolkit. Originally developed in 2019 by the Child, Youth & Family Initiatives (CYFI) team now part of Recovery Alberta, this team was dedicated to advancing mental health projects and initiatives for children, youth, and families. The academic poster has been presented at various conferences, and the information it contains remains accurate and relevant today.
The toolkit is available in both English and French as comprehensive digital documents. For more information about the detailed English and French versions of the Growing Up Online Toolkit, email informationandcyfistandards@recoveryalberta.ca.
