Children and Social Media: Guidelines, Risks, and Rules

Almost everyone, regardless of age, has at least one social media account. While social media can help children stay informed and connected, there are also risks of misuse, making it essential to regulate their screen time. According to Internet Matters, here’s guidance on when children can use social media and the rules to follow.

When Can Children Use Social Media?

Children aged 10–12 may already have at least one social media account.
However, officially, it is recommended to allow children to create their own accounts only after age 13, in line with most platform policies.
There is no absolute age threshold that guarantees a child is ready to manage their own social media accounts; parents’ judgment is key.

Parents play a crucial role in guiding their child’s social media use, helping to reduce negative online impacts. Ultimately, you know your child best, and the decision to allow social media accounts is a parental one.

Effects of Social Media on Minors

Fear and Anxiety

Exposure to violent content online can increase fear and anxiety in children. Studies show:

1 in 4 children encounter violent content.
About 8 in 10 children may feel unsafe in their environment.
Around 68% may hesitate to leave the house due to fear and anxiety.

Exposure to inappropriate content

Children aged 10–15 years spend nearly 2 hours daily on TikTok, often encountering age-inappropriate material.
About 40% of children aged 7–9 years use X (formerly Twitter), which can also expose them to unsuitable content.

Mental health issues

Excessive social media use is linked to higher risks of anxiety and depression.

Children spending more than 3 hours daily on social media have a higher likelihood of developing depressive or anxious symptoms.

Aggressive behavior

Exposure to violent content may increase aggression in children.

Longer screen time correlates with higher chances of behavioral problems, including aggression and rule-breaking.

Cyberbullying

Social media can be a platform for online bullying, causing severe psychological and social effects such as:

Depression and anxiety
Social isolation
In extreme cases, suicidal thoughts

Cyberbullying may occur via email, instant messaging, text messages, social media, or other online platforms.

Rules for Children Using Social Media

Despite the risks, social media can have benefits if used properly. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube can enhance creativity and provide learning opportunities. Parents should establish strict guidelines and boundaries:

Private settings: Many apps offer parental controls to block adult or violent content.
Privacy settings: Ensure your child’s accounts are secure and personal information is protected.
Restrict unknown contacts: Children should only accept friend/follow requests from people they know.
Strict usage schedule: Excessive social media use can interfere with sleep, study, and emotional well-being. Parents should enforce a clear schedule.
Screen time limits:
- Ages 2–5: 1–1.5 hours daily.
- School-age children: Adjust usage so digital tools do not interfere with sleep, study, or family interaction.

Summary:

Social media can be both a tool for learning and creativity and a source of risk. Parents must:

Guide children in safe online practices
Limit screen time
Monitor content exposure
Set rules for privacy and contact

By doing so, children can enjoy social media safely and responsibly.?