Sharjah launches ‘Impact Rooted in Values’ to turn children’s screen time into lessons in ethics and empathy

The Sharjah Family and Community Council has introduced a new digital educational initiative called “Impact Rooted in Values”. Aimed at instilling social and human values in children, the program utilizes storytelling, music, and animation to convey lessons through relatable and engaging content. The first episode will be launched on September 7, as part of an effort to move beyond traditional teaching methods and harness digital media to foster learning.

This initiative responds to the increasing influence of digital content on children’s behavior and understanding of the world. By employing formats that naturally capture children's attention, “Impact Rooted in Values” aims to transform screen time into a valuable learning experience. The series leverages artificial intelligence tools to support creative development while ensuring human oversight for alignment with the UAE's cultural identity and standards.

Inspired by Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi's emphasis on values and ethics from an early age, the initiative underscores the crucial role of values in shaping character, relationships, future decisions, and a sense of responsibility. Dr. Asma Mohamed Hassouni, director of the Media Office of the Sharjah Family and Community Council, highlighted the initiative's goal of making values understandable and memorable through a sequence of a catchy song, an illustrated story illustrating a familiar scenario, and demonstrating the consequences of different choices.

The initiative follows an integrated educational pathway, beginning with an engaging song and progressing to animated stories, each designed to guide children from concept to observable behavior. Dr. Hassouni emphasized that the success is measured by a child's ability to remember and apply values in real-life situations, highlighting the collaboration between media, families, and educational environments.

The initiative receives educational support from the Sharjah Education Academy, with participation from affiliated Sharjah Nurseries and Sharjah Children, supported by media resources from the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority and Majid TV. Mohammed Hassan Khalaf, director general of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, affirmed the commitment to reaching wider audiences and fostering a generation grounded in positive values.

Khawla Sharif Al Haway, director of Sharjah Children, emphasized the importance of turning values into practical actions, reflecting the emirate’s long-standing focus on human capital development and national identity.