Social Media & Youth: What Families Need to Know
Social media has transformed how we connect. It allows us to share milestones with relatives across the globe, raise awareness for important causes, and even build movements (Turning Life On included!). But while social media can create community, it also creates complex challenges—especially for kids and teens who are still developing emotionally, socially, and neurologically.
Let’s explore what the research says, what kids need, and how you can help them navigate social media safely and intentionally.
*We do not recommend access to social media until kids are at least 16. Even then, only introduce one platform at a time.
The Big Picture
Social media is woven into the fabric of our lives—and our kids’ lives. While it offers connection and entertainment, it's also linked to increased rates of anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, and cyberbullying, particularly among adolescents.
📊 77% of teens say people are less “real” on social media.
🔒 40% of middle schoolers report being excluded in group chats.
📱 The average teen checks their phone 100+ times a day.
🧠 Heavy use can shape developing brains, especially in middle school.
Source: Pew Research Center, Common Sense Media, APA 2023 Health Advisory
Kids Need…
1. Time to Grow Before Going Online
Delaying social media gives kids time to build self-esteem and in-person communication skills before entering a space that often rewards popularity over authenticity. Consider waiting until at least 16.
2. Clear, Calm Conversations About Tech
Talk regularly about how apps work, what’s appropriate, and how to protect their mental and emotional health online. Keep the tone curious and collaborative, not punitive.
3. Healthy Limits and Boundaries
Middle and high schoolers are still learning to regulate. Help them set boundaries they can’t set on their own—and let them “blame you” when they need an out.
4. Real-Life Friendships
Offline connection is essential for social-emotional development. Encourage time with friends IRL and model screen-free moments yourself.
What You Can Do
Delay, Then Introduce Slowly
Wait to introduce social media until after age 16—ideally later.
Start with texting or closed platforms (like texting) before opening public-facing apps.
Don’t skip phone etiquette! Kids need to practice calls, voicemails, and greetings.
Teach Smart Habits
Talk about what it means to be a good digital citizen.
Ask: What are your top 3 apps? Why do you like them?
Limit apps to 2–4 they use regularly and understand well.
Keep phones and computers in shared spaces.
Use Built-in Tools
Use Apple’s Screen Time, Bark, or Google Family Link to track app use together.
Set limits together, and adjust as needed. These conversations can help kids develop self-awareness.
Reflect, Don’t React
Ask your child:
How do you feel after 10 minutes on social media? After 30?
What are you missing out on when you’re scrolling?
Who do you follow that makes you feel good—or bad—about yourself?
Teach Safety and Respect Online
Privacy & Protection
Turn off location sharing and tighten privacy settings on every app.
Discuss what’s safe to post—and what’s not. (Hint: school names, locations, and birthdays should stay offline.)
Set a clear rule: no sharing photos of others without their permission.
Group Chats & Social Drama
Group chats can get messy fast. Teach kids how to leave, mute, or pause without guilt.
Make it okay to take breaks from toxic dynamics.
Know the Red Flags
Make a list together of situations that are “too big” for kids to handle alone—like threats, bullying, sexting, suicidal posts, or pressure to send photos. They should always come to a trusted adult.
Remind them: No response is a response.
Kids don’t owe anyone a reply—especially in uncomfortable situations.
Conversations Worth Having
Ask these questions to help kids pause before they post:
Why am I sharing this?
Who is this for?
What do I hope happens?
What could go wrong?
How might this be misunderstood?
Remind them: once something is sent, it can be saved, screenshotted, forwarded, or misused—even if they “delete” it.
Romance, Sexting & Safety
Let’s not tiptoe around it: teens are curious. That’s normal. But sexting, even between teens, can carry real consequences—including legal ones.
Call it what it is: sharing explicit images of minors is child pornography, a federal offense—even if the teen sends it themselves.
Make sure your child knows: if they receive something inappropriate, they should not share it. Delete it, don’t repeat it—and talk to a trusted adult.
Social media makes relationships public. Help teens feel empowered to take relationships offline and delete anything that makes them uncomfortable.
Build a Culture of Trust
Help your child name 2–3 trusted adults they can go to with concerns.
Reinforce:
✅ They never have to stay in a group chat that feels toxic.
✅ They never have to respond right away—or at all.
✅ You’re always a safe landing place, no matter what.
Bonus Tools for Parents
Want help getting started in your home or school?
Turning Life On can support you. Reach out anytime—we’re here for the conversations that matter.
