Children are accessing smartphones and social media platforms at increasingly younger ages, often circumventing age restrictions with parental assistance, leading to potential exposure to harmful content and raising concerns about the impact on their well-being. A recent survey of eighteen 10 and 11-year-olds reveals the complexities of their online experiences, highlighting both the benefits and risks associated with early phone use.

Many children receive their first phone around the age of 6 or 7, often as hand-me-downs, and quickly learn to navigate social media platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube, despite official age limits. Parents often play a role in helping their children bypass these restrictions, sometimes providing false birthdates or allowing access through their own accounts.

While children are generally aware of online dangers such as strangers and inappropriate content, they still encounter disturbing images and videos, including violence and sexually explicit material. Some children react by quickly clicking away and distracting themselves, but others experience fear and anxiety.

The study reveals a significant gap between children’s online experiences and their parents’ awareness, with many children hesitant to share their concerns for fear of repercussions. Shame and fear of losing their phones can prevent children from seeking help when they encounter disturbing content or experience online harassment.

Parents struggle to set appropriate boundaries for screen time and social media use, with rules varying widely from strict limitations to virtually no restrictions. This lack of consistency, coupled with the absence of clear national guidelines, leaves children vulnerable to excessive screen time and its associated risks, including physical problems, social difficulties, and exposure to harmful content.

The conversations with the children underscore how phones increase the differences between children. Those from families with modest incomes and high stress are more likely to be put in front of a screen for extended periods of time, which results in problems later in life. The study emphasizes the importance of open communication between children and parents about online safety and the need for clear guidelines to protect young people in the digital world.