Social Media and adolescence

There is a lot of media coverage around at the moment about social media and it's potential effect on children and adolescents.

As with everything, there are pros and cons to the online world and the responsibility for managing what young people can access online via the various apps, websites and networks falls on parents, carers and adults.

Aye Mind explains: "When we think about children and young people going online, often one of our main concerns is making sure that they are safe and have a positive experience. We know there is a range of online harms that they might come across, from bullying, online pornography, sexual exploitation and abuse, to content promoting self-harm or eating disorders."

It is a good idea to set parental controls and Internet Matters has useful privacy guides:

Guide to managing children's screen time, the effect on the behaviour, the effect on sleep and the effect on the brain. Image of a young boy looking at his phone on a black and green background. with a link to internet matters website


From Internet matters: 5 tips to consider when using screen time tools

Here’s what you need to know about using screen time tools effectively, along with a quick summary of the options available to you.

  1. Understand your child’s needs: Not all children use screens in the same way. Discuss their online habits and the purpose of their screen time—be it educational, social, or for entertainment.
  2. Set realistic limits: Gradually introduce boundaries that align with your child’s age and your family’s routine. Overly strict limits can lead to resistance, while clear expectations encourage healthy habits.
  3. Model balanced behaviour: Children often mimic adults. Set a positive example by balancing your own screen use and prioritising offline time.
  4. Combine tools with conversations: Technology isn’t a substitute for communication. Regularly talk to your child about why limits are important and how they can manage their own screen time as they grow.
  5. Review and adapt regularly: As your child grows, their online needs and habits will evolve. Adjust settings and rules to reflect their age and digital maturity.

Further advice and information on how to stay safe online



Categories: social media, adolescence
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