Egypt’s digital natives are diving headfirst into a world full of influencers, ads, and viral challenges—all screaming “buy this,” “try that,” or “look perfect.” And they mostly swipe along without a second thought. But here’s a refreshing change: in February 2025, students in Egypt’s 6th of October Smart Village participated in a five-day media literacy and fact-checking training—designed to help teens sift truth from hype.

I see it daily: my daughter’s screen is filled with glossy lives, all filters and highlights. She’s more likely to mimic a hashtagged pose than ask “Who paid for that photo shoot?” That’s a problem. Because in the wild world of ads, influencers, and spun reality, believing without questioning sets them up for disappointment—and worse, a distorted self-image.

So how do we help? It starts with modeling questions: show them how to ask why a post exists. Practice together. “Who stands to gain? What’s left unsaid? Is this staged or real?” Encourage tech pauses: five seconds to think before tapping “share.”

Stay light. Introduce humor: “If only following influencers came with a homework pass.” Strike the balance—honest, not preachy.

Media literacy also extends to ads and peer pressure disguised as online trends. When teens realize someone is selling them something, they’re less likely to chase it blindly. That’s true empowerment. They learn to scroll smart, not scroll suckers.

Plus, this builds responsibility. Just like chores and money lessons, this teaches accountability in their online lives. When they post or share, they own the ripple effect—not just double-tap and ghost.

Finally, this habit pays off long-term. A teenager who questions media becomes an adult who questions politicians, tabloids, finances, and more. Instead of mimicry, you get discernment. Instead of entitlement, you get empowerment.

So tonight, try this mini challenge: pick a flashy post, ask three “why/what/for whom” questions, then talk it out—joke your way through. If that becomes habit, you’ll be shaping a generation of thinkers, not followers. And that’s a parent’s win.