Judy Nyawira’s guide to protecting children’s mental health online

In the age of social media, families are increasingly sharing their lives online. From playful daily routines to educational conversations, content featuring children can quickly gain traction.

However, this visibility comes with responsibility. Judy Nyawira, also known as Bi Mkurugenzi, has navigated these waters thoughtfully, advocating for ethical and conscious family content creation.

Speaking to Hannah Githuki, Judy emphasised that children should have agency in the content they participate in. She recalls her experience creating videos with her daughter, Mumbus, noting the importance of her consent.

For Judy, the content her family produces starts with conversations at home. This ensures that her daughter feels involved and empowered, rather than coerced.

Rather than dictating her child’s path, Judy encourages learning through observation. Mumbus has grown up seeing both her parents actively engaged in creative work, which naturally inspired her interest.

This approach has allowed Mumbus to take part in content creation willingly, developing a genuine enthusiasm for their family projects.

Judy recalls a specific instance when they began filming educational discussions about menstruation. She had started conversations with Mumbus as early as age seven to prepare her for future discussions.

When Mumbus began menstruating at ten, she was ready and eager to share her experience on their YouTube channel.

“She was very excited to talk about it. And I asked her, ‘Do you want this conversation on the YouTube channel?’ She said, ‘Yeah, why not?’”

The importance of mental health is central to Judy’s approach. She is keenly aware of the pressures social media can place on young minds.

Children who feel forced into content creation may resent the experience later, potentially developing behavioural or emotional challenges.

Her philosophy ensures that content creation is not only sustainable but also safe. By involving her daughter in decisions and respecting her comfort levels, Judy demonstrates a model for responsible family engagement online.

The Pulse YouTube Influencer of the year 2025 also highlighted the importance of curating content intentionally. She and her family plan discussions, videos, and projects together, making sure each segment aligns with their values and brand.

“We sit down in the house, brainstorm, and come up with a final piece of concepts that reflect the best for the brand we’ve built,” she explains.

This process includes her husband Abel and daughter Mumbus, creating a collaborative environment.

The family doesn’t simply post random content; they carefully select topics and determine the narrative approach.

This planning allows the family to create meaningful content while preserving the dignity and autonomy of each participant.

Judy’s approach provides valuable lessons for other parents navigating social media. First, always prioritise the child’s consent and interest.

Second, view participation as an opportunity for learning and growth, not merely for views or popularity. Third, plan and curate content collaboratively to ensure it aligns with shared values.

“It works better if both of you are in agreement. If it’s not something that is truly in them, and it’s not a career path or direction they would want to follow, it won’t be sustainable,” she advises.

By balancing consent, collaboration, and careful curation, Judy has created a model for family content that prioritises ethics over virality.

Her approach ensures that Mumbus participates willingly, enjoys the process, and maintains her mental health while building confidence and understanding about creative work.