Singapore Launches Nationwide 'Screen Smart from the Start' Movement and Be Screen Smart Portal
On 31 May 2026, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong officiated the launch of 'Screen Smart from the Start', a nationwide movement aimed at helping families across Singapore cultivate healthy digital habits from an early age. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI), comes at a time when digital devices play an increasingly central role in daily life for children and parents alike.
The movement was unveiled during the fifth edition of the National Family Festival at the Expo. It reflects a coordinated whole-of-government approach to support parents navigating the complexities of raising children in a digital era. Rather than imposing outright bans on social media or devices, Singapore is focusing on empowering families with practical tools and guidance.
Key Features of the Be Screen Smart Portal
At the heart of the initiative is the new one-stop portal, Be Screen Smart, available at bescreensmart.gov.sg. This platform consolidates resources from various government agencies, making it easier for parents to access age-appropriate advice and support. The portal is organised around three key age groups: children aged 0 to 6, 7 to 12, and 13 to 18, ensuring guidance aligns with developmental stages.
Parents can find practical tips on managing screen time, setting device boundaries, and fostering open conversations about online experiences. Resources include guides on parental controls, recognising signs of excessive use, and promoting balanced digital engagement alongside offline activities. The portal also features interactive elements such as quizzes to test knowledge on digital safety myths.
Background and Rationale Behind the Movement
Singapore's approach builds on earlier efforts under the Digital for Life movement, which has long promoted responsible technology use. A 2025 MDDI survey revealed that while most parents already take steps to guide their children's digital habits—such as restricting usage duration or content types—many seek additional support. The new movement addresses this gap by providing more accessible, action-oriented resources tailored to different parenting milestones, like a child's first exposure to screens or first smartphone.
Officials emphasise that the focus is on positive habits rather than restriction alone. This includes encouraging families to model healthy behaviours, create device-free zones at home, and prioritise real-world interactions. The initiative acknowledges the benefits of technology for education and connection while mitigating potential downsides like sleep disruption or reduced physical activity.
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Stakeholder Perspectives and Government Commitment
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted the importance of collective effort, noting that parents play a pivotal role but should not face these challenges in isolation. The movement involves partnerships across ministries, including the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), to deliver consistent messaging and resources.
Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Mdm Rahayu Mahzam stressed the need for sustained collaboration with community and private sector partners to co-create engaging programmes. This whole-of-society model aims to make support convenient and relevant for families at every stage.
Practical Tips and Resources Available
The Be Screen Smart portal offers concrete strategies for different age groups. For younger children, emphasis is placed on co-viewing content and limiting passive screen time. For school-aged kids, guidance covers balancing homework with leisure use and monitoring social media exposure. For teenagers, resources focus on digital citizenship, privacy awareness, and managing online pressures.
Families are encouraged to establish family media plans, use built-in device features for limits, and regularly discuss online experiences. The portal links to existing programmes under Digital for Life and provides downloadable materials for easy reference at home.
Broader Context in Singapore's Digital Landscape
This launch aligns with Singapore's ongoing push to build a digitally inclusive and responsible society. As the country advances its Smart Nation vision, equipping the next generation with healthy digital habits is seen as essential for long-term wellbeing and productivity. The movement complements other initiatives in online safety, cybersecurity awareness, and digital literacy education in schools.
By providing a centralised hub, the government hopes to reduce fragmentation in information and make it simpler for busy parents to stay informed and proactive.
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Future Outlook and Expected Impact
Officials expect the movement to evolve with ongoing feedback and new research on digital wellbeing. Plans include expanding community workshops, school partnerships, and targeted campaigns during key periods like school holidays. Long-term success will be measured by shifts in family behaviours and reduced reports of digital-related issues among youth.
The initiative positions Singapore as a leader in balanced digital parenting support, offering a model that prioritises education and empowerment over prohibition.
How Families Can Get Involved
Parents and caregivers are invited to visit bescreensmart.gov.sg to explore the resources and sign up for updates. Community organisations, schools, and workplaces can also play a role by promoting the portal and hosting related activities. The movement encourages everyone to contribute to a culture where technology enhances rather than detracts from family life.