Community event in Omagh supports parents navigating the digital era

A COMMUNITY event aimed at helping parents navigate the challenges of raising young children in an increasingly digital world was recently held at the Silverbirch Hotel in Omagh.

The information evening, titled ‘Parenting Children 0–5 Years in the Digital Era’, brought together families, carers and professionals from across the Omagh district to explore the impact of digital media on early childhood development.

Organised by Home-Start Omagh District, the event took place with funding from the Western Health and Social Care Trust through its SEED funding programme. The funding enabled the charity to provide the workshop free of charge, ensuring it was accessible to parents, carers and those who work or volunteer with babies, toddlers and young children in the area.

Home-Start Omagh District, a charity that has been supporting families locally for more than 30 years, said it was delighted with the strong turnout and positive feedback from attendees. The organisation provides volunteer-led support to families with children up to the age of five, offering friendship as well as practical and emotional assistance.

Representatives explained that many families today lack the extended “village” of support that once helped parents raise young children. Through weekly volunteer visits and community initiatives, the charity works to fill that gap by offering hands-on help and reassurance during the early years of parenting.

The event focused on the growing presence of digital media in everyday life and the potential impact of early and prolonged screen use on children’s development. By creating an informal and non-judgemental environment, organisers aimed to give families the opportunity to learn directly from professionals while sharing experiences with others facing similar challenges.

A range of expert speakers took part in the evening, including a paediatric occupational therapist, a speech and language therapist, and a forest school leader. Representatives from Smartphone Free Childhood also contributed, alongside an early years play consultant.

Together, the speakers shared current research, statistics and practical advice about supporting healthy development in young children while managing the realities of a digital world. They also offered strategies and tools designed to help parents encourage more play-based, real-life experiences during the crucial early years.

Organisers said the workshop demonstrated the importance of community support and open conversations about technology and childhood. As digital devices become ever more embedded in daily life, events like this help parents and professionals better understand how to balance technology with the social, emotional and developmental needs of young children.

Home-Start Omagh District is continuing its work to support families across the region and is currently welcoming new volunteers who would like to help young parents. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact the charity at info@homestartomaghdistrict.org.uk