Abstract

In the fast-paced modern world, highly driven by the internet, children and adolescents are more exposed to the risks associated with social media and online gaming. While parental control tools exist across various platforms, their effectiveness remains fragmented due to improper implementation, technological limitations, and evolving online threats. This chapter explores an integrated approach to parental controls in social media and gaming environments, aiming to create a safer digital future for children. It examines the existing parental control mechanisms across social media and gaming platforms, highlighting their strengths, limitations and adaptability to emerging risks such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and online predators. This chapter proposes a strategic framework that combines AI-driven moderation, cross-platform integration, and parental education to enhance digital safety. Attempting to achieve a balance between protecting children, fostering digital literacy and empowering parents with mechanisms to safeguard children in an evolving digital landscape.