The Australian Prime Minister recently proposed to ban children under 16 from social media, without any exceptions. He says it’s for parents like him, who are worried sick about safety of their kids online. A friend of mine, who visits Australia often, remarked that the country is built around the welfare of children—a sentiment reflected in such protective measures.
This isn’t the first time a country has attempted to restrict access to social media for minors. History shows that implementing such laws effectively has been challenging. The debate around this issue carries significant consequences for children, families, and society.
Critics argue that a ban may not be the right solution. Elon Musk and others in the tech world suggest that banning social media merely delays exposure to a fundamental part of modern life. Instead of shielding children completely, they argue, the focus should be on teaching them how to navigate the digital world responsibly. Even within Australia, a prominent child rights advocacy group has called the proposed ban “too blunt of an instrument.”
As a parent who enforces screen-time rules at home, I see the challenges firsthand. Recently, my 10-year-old expressed a wish to get an iPad. When I asked why she needed one when she could already play games on her laptop or watch TV, her response surprised me. She said she felt left out and was teased by classmates for not having her own device. Many of her peers not only own iPads but also use them to chat in social media groups and FaceTime each other after school.
This isn’t a new phenomenon. A 28-year-old friend of mine recalls being ostracized in seventh grade for not having a Facebook account or email address. The pressure to fit in, even in the digital realm, is intense.
Dimple, a psychotherapist and consciousness coach, highlights the dilemma: Providing children with smartphones and social media access has its costs. On one side, there’s the potential for distraction, mental health issues, and exposure to harmful content. On the other, denying them access may lead to bullying, social exclusion, and missed opportunities to develop connections.
It’s a tough balancing act. How much exclusion should a child endure for not having a device? How do we equip them to handle social pressures while staying safe online?
The way forward
Ultimately, this isn’t about banning social media or granting unrestricted access—it’s about finding a middle ground. We need to empower children with the skills to navigate the digital world responsibly while fostering resilience against peer pressure.
This means involving parents, educators, and policymakers in the conversation. Digital literacy programs, open family discussions about online safety, and gradual, age-appropriate exposure to technology could be more effective than blanket bans. It’s also crucial to teach empathy and inclusivity to children, so those without access to devices don’t face ridicule from their peers.
The challenge is complex, but the goal is clear: a world where children can enjoy the benefits of technology while minimizing its risks. It’s not just about managing devices; it’s about raising a generation that’s both digitally savvy and emotionally strong.
What’s Your Take?
How do you think we should balance protecting children from online risks while helping them navigate social pressures? Do you have any strategies or experiences to share? Let’s continue the conversation—because this affects us all.
