As our access to technology continues to increase, children are being introduced to phones and other accessible devices earlier and earlier in their youth. Some learn how to read through apps on iPads, at one to two years of age. While educational apps that teach children how to speak or differentiate between animals can be rather helpful, other apps, such as Instagram or Musical.ly, do more harm than good.

While Instagram and other social media apps allow one to express themselves and develop an identity, they have been known to assist in the development of depression and other mental disorders. The pictures posted by your peers, friends, and idols have been carefully constructed, creating a false perception of perfection. Upon viewing others’ pictures on social media, one may feel compelled to strive for their lifestyle, even though their life isn’t what it appears to be. When it comes to the number of followers or likes that a person acquires, this can cause one to only seek higher and higher numbers, as they associate high numbers with social acceptance. However, when that number falls short, this can cause an individual to feel insignificant and not popular, which may contribute to mental disorders. Clearly, the use of social media has it drawbacks – yet when children begin to ask if they can go on social media, at what age should parents permit them to do so?

One must consider that children wish to fit in, and one way to do this is by being on social media. Parents who refuse to let their ten year old daughter make an Instagram may cause her to feel excluded by her friends, and she may struggle in fitting in. This creates a dilemma – if children do use social media, they’re at a greater risk of developing depression or self-doubt. However, if they are not on social media, they will most likely face skepticism from their friends, lowering their self-confidence.

If the ten year old daughter was allowed to go on social media, she may become a target online or be exposed to information that is arguably inappropriate for ten year olds. She will most likely see offensive language that her parents wish to shield her from, and may innocently start talking to a thirty year old man. Ensuring that one’s account is placed on private will help avoid such interactions.

Kid-friendly social media does exist; however, it may hurt the child’s reputation more than not having social media. If old enough, the child’s peers may criticize them for having “baby” apps, and this will only cause further harm to their confidence and perceived popularity.

All social media networks do have age restrictions, although these are relatively ignored since you can simply claim that you’re twenty, despite being twelve. Parents could follow the age limits, which are typically set at 13-16, when deciding the right time to allow children to go on social media.

Perhaps the answer lies within the judgement of parents. Some children are more responsible and mature than others, no matter the age. Others, however, are more immature and rebellious. If parents decide that their children are ready to be on social media, despite being under thirteen, then it is their call. Parents must keep in mind the harmful social effects of social media, and may need to check up on their accounts from time to time, to ensure that they aren’t talking to strangers or posting revealing pictures of themselves. Most importantly, parents should address the dangers of social media, as well as the benefits that it may bring if used properly and safely.