1st April, 2026
Social media is now a normal part of growing up. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube are where friendships are maintained, trends are shared and communities are formed.
Over the past few years there has been increasing concern about how social media may affect the mental health of children and teenagers. Recent legal cases and heartbreaking stories have highlighted just how powerful online environments can be during childhood.
While these developments can feel worrying, it is important to remember that there are supportive and practical steps families can take to help children use social media more safely and confidently.
Australia has recently banned social media use for children under 16. In the United States, a landmark case has also found that major technology companies, including Meta and Google, designed features on platforms such as Instagram and YouTube to encourage excessive use—particularly among younger users—contributing to serious mental health concerns. While the case is based in the US, it reflects growing global anxiety among families.
Equally, in the UK, the death of Molly Russell intensified concerns about online safety. An inquest found she had been exposed to large amounts of harmful content, which contributed to her death, raising urgent questions about how young people are protected online.
Childhood and adolescence are periods of rapid emotional development. Young people are learning who they are, how they relate to others and where they fit in. Social media can intensify these experiences in ways that are sometimes difficult to manage.
Many social media platforms revolve around images, likes and follower counts. Young people compare their appearance, friendships or achievements with others online. Because much of what is shared is edited, it creates unrealistic expectations and puts pressure on young people to present a “perfect” version of themselves.
Over time, this can affect confidence and self-esteem.
Algorithms often show users more of the content they interact with. This can sometimes mean that young people who engage with certain themes—such as extreme dieting, self-harm or negative body image— begin to see more of the same content. Repeated exposure can be harmful for young people who are already struggling emotionally.
Unlike traditional bullying, online bullying follows a young person everywhere. Negative comments, exclusion from group chats or the sharing of embarrassing content can spread quickly and feel overwhelming.
Many teenagers use social media late into the evening. Notifications, messaging and endless scrolling can make it difficult to switch off. Poor sleep can quickly affect mood, concentration and emotional wellbeing.
For children living in foster care, social media can present additional challenges. Many children who have experienced trauma, neglect or instability may already struggle with feelings of belonging, identity or self-worth. Social media can intensify these feelings.
Children in care may use social media to:
While some of these connections may be positive, they can also expose them to additional risks such as grooming, exploitation or contact with individuals who may not have their best interests at heart.
Some young people in care may also be more vulnerable to online bullying or manipulation, particularly if they are seeking acceptance or emotional support.
For foster carers and parents, this means that supportive guidance and open conversations about social media are especially important.
Although the risks associated with social media are real, it is important to remember that supportive adults are one of the most protective factors in a young person’s life.
Parents and foster carers do not need to be technology experts to help keep children safer online. What matters most is building trust, staying curious and offering guidance.
Keep the Conversation Open - One of the most effective ways to protect children online is simply by talking with them about their digital lives.
Young people are much more likely to ask for help if they feel they will not immediately get into trouble or have their phone taken away. Creating a calm and supportive environment where children can talk about their online experiences is key.
Questions like these can help start conversations:
For children in foster care, these conversations can also help carers understand whether a young person may be communicating with unknown adults or searching for family members online.
Agree on Healthy Boundaries -Clear expectations around technology use can help young people develop healthier habits.
Many families find it helpful to agree on boundaries such as:
For foster carers, these agreements can also be incorporated into the child’s care plan or internet safety plan where appropriate.
Learn About the Platforms Together - Many parents feel they are always catching up with new apps and trends. Asking children to explain how their favourite apps work can be a great way to stay informed. It also sends the message that you are interested in their world rather than simply monitoring it.
Exploring privacy settings together—such as private accounts, blocking features and comment filters—can significantly reduce potential risks.
Help Children Understand Online Relationships -Some young people, particularly those who have experienced instability may find it easy to trust people they meet online.
Carers can talk about the difference between online friendships and real-life relationships, helping children understand that not everyone online is who they say they are.
Encouraging young people to talk about anyone new they meet online can help adults step in early if something feels concerning.
Watch for Changes in Behaviour -Adults often notice when something does not feel right. Sudden behavioural changes may sometimes be linked to online experiences.
Possible signs to look out for include:
These signs do not always mean something serious is happening, but they can be an opportunity to offer support.
Model Healthy Digital Habits - Children notice how adults use technology too. Demonstrating balanced phone use, putting devices aside during conversations and prioritising real-world interactions can help reinforce healthy habits for the whole family.
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