Helping Your Child Through the New Social Media Bans
Navigating new social media bans can leave children with a whirlwind of emotions, from relief to worry. As a parent, your steady support is key. Here are five clear ways to help them feel understood and confident as they adapt, so you can together balance the value of technology with what’s right for their age.
With the new social media bans rolling out, many children are feeling unsure. Some are relieved; others feel left out, annoyed, or worried they’ll lose touch with friends. Here are five clear ways to support them through the change. As a parent, you are working with them through this adjustment.
1. Acknowledge Their Feelings
Keep it simple and calm.
Try: “How’s this change feeling for you?”
Let them talk before you reassure. Feeling heard settles anxiety quickly. They need to know you are listening with understanding.
2. Keep Their Social World Alive
Children worry most about losing connection. You are reassuring them that they can be connected in different ways.
Try:
Arranging one or two regular in-person catch-ups.
Helping them use allowed communication tools (messages, calls, school-approved platforms).
Friendship continuity reduces stress.
3. Make a Quick Tech Transition Plan
Sit together and agree on:
When they can use allowed tech,
What fills the old “scrolling time,”
What feels fair for everyone.
It gives structure and stops arguments before they start. Here you are working as a team through the transition.
4. Replace Scrolling With Simple, Enjoyable Habits
Social media filled the “little gaps” in their day. Offer easy alternatives:
Music, podcasts, books
Drawing, sport practice, photography
For younger kids: puzzles, colouring, craft.
Tiny routines make the change feel manageable.
5. Stay Linked With the School
A short check-in with the teacher helps keep expectations consistent. It also reassures your child that home and school are on the same team.
A Final Word
This is a big shift. Your steady, understanding approach will help your child adjust with confidence. Stay curious, stay calm, and keep the conversation open. Let them see that you value technology and also age appropriateness of social media.
“Digital citizenship means using internet in a legal, safe, respectful and responsible way.”