Australia recently took a bold step: a social‑media ban for children under 16. Minors are no longer allowed to create new accounts on major platforms such as TikTok, X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, or Threads, and existing profiles are to be deactivated.
The reasoning is clear: the government wants to protect children from cyberbullying and from algorithm‑driven content that can increase anxiety, depression, or negative body image.
But social media is only part of the problem. Studies show that screen time itself can have negative effects on children and adolescents — regardless of whether they are using social media or not.
And this is where it gets interesting: a smartphone is a screen that is always available. It is easier to consume than a stationary device like a computer or TV. That makes it especially tempting for children.
Why children are particularly at risk
Of course, adults are not immune to the negative effects of social media or excessive screen time. But children’s brains are still developing.
They are only just learning:
- how social structures work
- how to find their place within them
- how to deal with conflict
Cyberbullying can leave particularly deep marks during this phase. And the constant sensory overload from digital content can affect children more strongly than adults.
How can we protect children — while also preparing them?
Technology cannot be completely banned. Nor would that make sense, because children need to learn how to use it responsibly. So the question is: how do we ensure a safe introduction?
The answer depends heavily on the needs of everyday life. Here are some sensible options:
1. The child needs to be reachable? → A simple “dumb phone”
A classic mobile phone without apps, internet, or distractions — combined with a prepaid card.
This allows the child to make calls or send SMS messages, but prevents them from slipping into the world of social media.
2. The child needs to be locatable? → AirTag or smartwatch
For parents who want to keep an eye on their children in unfamiliar environments:
- AirTag: discreet, inexpensive, reliable
- Smartwatch with location tracking (e.g., Apple Watch): also offers calling and emergency features
Both options work without a full smartphone.
3. The child should be gradually introduced to apps? → A family iPad
A tablet that belongs to the whole family can be a good intermediate step:
- with parental controls
- time‑limited
- supervised and guided
This way, children learn how to use apps without owning a smartphone.
4. Navigation and music on the go? → Smartwatch (for older children)
A smartwatch can provide music, navigation, and simple communication.
However, it only makes sense at an older age because it has a high distraction potential.
The most important point: Model behavior instead of just setting rules
Children learn most through observation.
When adults themselves maintain a healthy relationship with smartphones and social media, children are far more likely to adopt that behavior.
After all, by the time they turn 18, they must be able to handle it on their own.
With good preparation, clear boundaries, and a gradual introduction, this works surprisingly well.
Checklist
- A simple “dumb phone” with a prepaid card is often the best first step when the goal is basic reachability.
- For added safety, AirTags or smartwatches with tracking functions can help parents keep an eye on children in unfamiliar environments.
- A shared family iPad with clear time limits and parental controls offers a gentle introduction to the world of apps.
- Smartwatches for music and navigation are better suited for older children because they can quickly become a distraction.
- Children take their cues from us — a healthy smartphone habit modeled by parents is more effective than any rule.