Technology is woven into the fabric of children’s lives—but are we truly designing digital experiences that honour their right to play, grow, and thrive?
As part of a global research effort, I contributed to the LEGO Foundation’s “Children, Technology and Play” report, which explores how we can design and govern digital technologies in ways that support—not replace—playful, enriching, and safe experiences for children. The findings are clear: not all digital play is equal, and the way we shape technology today has lasting consequences for how children learn, connect, and develop.
One of the report’s key messages is that technology can support children’s development—if it’s grounded in child-centred design. Play is how children make sense of the world. But too often, digital experiences are extractive, overstimulating, or designed primarily for profit. We found that digital play environments must be designed with intention, prioritising autonomy, creativity, joy, and social connection.
Another major insight is the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration. Parents, educators, policymakers, designers, and children themselves all have roles to play in shaping the digital ecosystem. Children must be recognised as rights-holders and co-creators, not just users of technology. Their voices—and needs—must be included in how we regulate, design, and fund digital experiences.
Finally, we need stronger governance frameworks to ensure safety, equity, and transparency in digital design. This includes pushing back against exploitative business models and biased AI systems that risk reinforcing inequality.
This work reinforced for me the importance of putting children’s rights, wellbeing, and agency at the heart of digital innovation. If we get it right, technology can be a tool that enhances play, connection, and learning. If we get it wrong, we risk deepening exclusion and eroding trust.
The future of childhood is increasingly digital. The question is—how do we shape that future to reflect the values we hold for our children and society as a whole?
Tech, Education, Impact & Ethics 
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