Every parent wants their child to have meaningful friendships and feel included. It’s heartbreaking to think of them being left out, and it’s natural to want to help them navigate social groups. But as parents, we also face a tough balancing act—how do we encourage our children to form healthy relationships while staying true to our family’s values?

Add to that the pressure of electronic devices, social media, and video games, and the challenge grows. Many parents I’ve spoken to feel torn—should they allow hours of gaming because it’s how their kids socialize? Or should they push for offline activities, even if it risks their child feeling left out?

The first question I would always ask is: What is my overall goal for my child?

1. Defining the Goal for Your Child

Start by asking yourself: What do I want for my child’s long-term happiness and success? Is the decision you’re facing helping them grow into the person you envision? Parenting isn’t about saying yes or no to every opportunity—it’s about knowing the direction you’re steering your family and making decisions that align with that vision.

In my own journey, I had to confront this challenge in a way that felt monumental. My children were pursuing budding careers in Hollywood. With top commercial agents and a successful manager, their careers were taking off—fast. Jobs were coming in, sometimes without even needing an audition. On the outside, it looked like the dream every parent hopes for their child.

But as time went on, I realized this dream came with risks. It had the potential to derail the morals and values I wanted for my children. I thought of the stories of child actors—Leonardo DiCaprio, Molly Ringwald, Lindsay Lohan—and the challenges they faced. The pressure of fame, money, and success didn’t always align with personal survival, ethics, or long-term happiness.

2. Making Tough Decisions Aligned With Your Family’s Values

The decision to step away from Hollywood wasn’t easy. My children were young, and this choice would completely change their trajectory. We had countless conversations, weighing the pros and cons. What surprised me most was the reactions from others.

Some friends were outraged. I was told I was ruining my children’s lives. One friend called, visibly upset, saying they couldn’t believe I’d pull my kids out of such a promising career. These moments were hard, but I trusted my instincts as their mother.

With my husband’s support and—most importantly—the agreement of my children, we took that leap. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I ever made.

3. Trusting Your Instincts as a Parent

Years later, my son shared what he was exposed to on set and what went on behind the scenes with other child actors. He thanked me for removing him from that environment, saying, 'Mom, you would have lost me.' That moment reinforced the importance of listening to your intuition and staying true to your family’s vision, even when it’s uncomfortable.

You are the guide, and your children are the apprentices. Parenting isn’t about control—it’s about leadership. When you shape your family’s goals, purpose, and values, you create a roadmap for your child to follow, one that gives them the tools to thrive in any environment.

4. Navigating Social Pressures With Confidence

When it comes to socializing through video games, social media, or other modern challenges, the same principles apply. Ask yourself:

• Does this activity align with our family’s goals and values?
• Is it helping my child develop the qualities I want for their future—resilience, kindness, or confidence?
• How can I create opportunities for them to build friendships in ways that align with our family’s vision?
  
  The goal isn’t to isolate your child but to guide them toward friendships and environments that foster growth. It’s okay to be the parent who sets boundaries. It’s okay to say no when something feels off. And it’s okay to make bold moves for your child’s long-term well-being.

Conclusion

Parenting isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence. Raising an unbreakable family takes time, patience, and work, but the rewards are worth every challenge.

When you parent with clarity and purpose, aligning your decisions with your family’s values, you’ll raise children who aren’t just thriving—they’re flourishing in ways that matter most.

Trust your instincts. Lead with confidence. Your family’s success is worth every tough decision.