With Gen Alpha already leading the latest wave of memes (Skibidi toilet, anyone? None?), it can start to feel like toddlers are learning to roll before they can walk. With social media becoming a massive part of growing up these days, Australia has become the first nation to step up plans to ban it from minors. This has raised a question that desperately needs an answer: How much is too much when it comes to children on social media?

The risks are not just rumours. Researchers have been raising red flags for years, suggesting that too much screen time at a young age can have lasting effects. So let’s take a look at what science has to say about how early exposure to social media affects children’s minds, moods, and everything in between.

Sleep fight

It’s not just adults’ sleep that’s disrupted by blue light – it’s children’s too, only they’re even more vulnerable. Screens, especially before bed, can delay the release of melatonin, the hormone that tells our bodies it’s time to sleep. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who use screens near bedtime often sleep less and end up feeling groggy the next day. This leads to more than fatigue; Lack of sleep can also affect children’s learning, memory and even mood stability.

Scrolling through emotions

The effect of social media on mental health is a bit like playing with fire. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while moderate use can boost self-esteem and help kids feel more connected, too much can tip the balance the other way.
Excessive social media can lead to anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Children can also suffer from FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) as they constantly compare themselves to the perfect snapshots of others. Imagine facing this pressure before you even get to high school—no wonder it causes stress for young minds.

Attention span in random mode

Social media doesn’t just grab kids’ attention; it keeps him on a fast-paced rollercoaster. Research from several regions, including India, shows that children who spend a lot of time on social media may find it harder to stay focused on tasks without instant rewards. The endless cycle of quick likes and notifications can make schoolwork and even daily routines feel sluggish by comparison. Think of it as training children’s brains to expect rewards on a constant, fast basis—something real life just doesn’t provide.

Virtual friends vs. real connections

Kids may feel like they have a lot of friends online, but are those connections as meaningful as the ones they would make in person? UCLA researchers found that children who spend a lot of time online may struggle to develop strong real-life social skills, such as reading body language and empathy.

This is not to say that social media is all bad; for marginalized children or those with niche interests, it can provide a sense of belonging and community. But the danger is when those virtual friendships start to replace real ones, making it harder for kids to connect offline.

Cyber ​​bullying and online harassment

The internet also has its darker sides, and cyberbullying is at the top of the list. According to the Cyberbullying Research Center, more than half of teens have experienced some form of cyberbullying. Unlike traditional bullying, which might stop once the school bell rings, online bullying can follow children home, affecting their mental health long-term. Children who experience online bullying are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and even thoughts of self-harm, making the need for boundaries even clearer.

Body image battles

Apps like Instagram and TikTok are fun, but they can also be a trap for body image issues, especially for girls. A study published in the Body Image Journal found that young girls who frequently use social media are more likely to experience body dissatisfaction. When children see a constant stream of “perfect” lives and appearances, they can begin to feel like they don’t fit in, even though they’re barely old enough to understand the concept of self-esteem.

To post or not to post?

Despite the risks, social media isn’t all bad. When used responsibly, it can be a powerful tool for learning and creativity. These platforms can enhance creative expression and provide educational content that supports academic growth. For children with special interests or those who feel isolated, online communities can provide a sense of belonging and support.
As we continue to integrate technology into every aspect of our lives, understanding and mitigating its impact on our youngest members becomes increasingly crucial. For parents and caregivers, the key is to set boundaries, encourage open communication, and guide children to navigate the digital world carefully. Australia’s stance could be just the catalyst needed to inspire similar safeguards around the world, ensuring children can enjoy the benefits of technology without falling prey to its pitfalls.