The event «Growing with Balance: The Role of Social Media and Family in the Future of Children» took place at the Auditorium of the Escola Superior de Tecnologia de Castelo Branco, promoted by EAPN Portugal - Núcleo Distrital de Castelo Branco and the Commission for the Protection of Children and Young People (CPCJ) of Castelo Branco. The initiative, part of the Week for the Eradication of Poverty, involved several partner entities and the Portuguese Institute for Sport and Youth (IPDJ).
At the opening session, Hélio Ferreira, a technician from the National Commission for the Promotion of the Rights and Protection of Children and Young People, highlighted the importance of coordination between protection commissions and community organizations, warning about the challenges of parental neglect and social media use. Cristelle Domingues, councilwoman of the Municipality of Castelo Branco, and the vice-rector of the Polytechnic University of Castelo Branco, also emphasized the relevance of the initiative.
Fátima Veiga, a sociologist from EAPN Portugal, analyzed the social, emotional, and generational impacts of child poverty, discussing housing costs and the need for comprehensive social policies. Ana Margarida Moreira, a child psychiatrist, warned about the effects of excessive digital device use on children's mental health and emotional self-regulation, stressing the importance of parental involvement and educators' attention.
Carla Dias Costa, a psychologist, reflected on children's digital vulnerabilities and the shared responsibility among families, schools, and institutions in building safer environments. Bruno Trindade, a sociocultural animator, addressed the consequences of excessive mobile phone use, such as isolation and sedentary lifestyles, advocating for the valorization of playgrounds as spaces for play, social interaction, and strengthening bonds.
Inês Silva, a psychologist and volunteer for the IPDJ's «Navegas em Segurança» program, shared experiences on how young people relate on social media. Professor Luís moderated the session, sharing experiences of inclusion in playgrounds.
The event reinforced the central message that protecting children is everyone's responsibility, with the coordination between families, schools, the community, and institutions playing a fundamental role in promoting their rights, inclusion, and well-being in the face of poverty and digital world challenges.
