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Parents must stay informed about the social media apps their children are using, especially because of a new law that mandates parental consent for children's apps.
Starting on March 1, Utah has new social media regulations that will grant parents greater control over their children's access to social media accounts. These changes are a response to growing concerns about children's safety and online well-being. And according to an NPR article, other states are likely to follow suit.
According to a Statista report by Laura Ceci, approximately 47% of parents in the United States allowed their children over three hours of screen time daily in 2022. However, it's not just the screen time that's concerning: the apps children engage with also require a closer look.
As children gain access to mobile devices at younger ages, app usage among them has increased. And the most popular apps for kids aren't always the safest or most appropriate.
Statista's research revealed that while kids spent around 12 to 14 minutes a day on educational apps such as Kahoot! or Duolingo, they allocated nearly 80 minutes to YouTube and 50 minutes to Netflix. Additionally, apps like Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook have also become popular among young users.
These social media apps, though entertaining and engaging, pose risks parents should know about. Cybersecurity threats, online bullying, scams and privacy issues are just some of the many challenges children may encounter while using these platforms. In response to these concerns, new social media laws have been introduced to safeguard children's online experiences.
Returning control to parents
The new requirement for parental consent when children under a certain age wish to create accounts or access certain features on social media platforms is a significant development. The aim is to provide parents with more control and oversight over their children's online activities. This legislation is a vital step in addressing the potential dangers associated with social media use among minors.
Here are a few key aspects to consider when it comes to popular social media apps and the new laws in place:
Snapchat: Snapchat is known for its disappearing messages, making it challenging for parents to monitor their children's interactions. It's essential to discuss the importance of privacy and responsible communication with your kids.
Instagram: Instagram can expose children to a world of curated images that might not always reflect reality. It's crucial to educate kids about image manipulation, cyberbullying and the importance of self-esteem.
Facebook: In February, Facebook will mark its 20th year and it still attracts young users. Parents should be aware of the content their children are exposed to on the platform and the risks associated with sharing personal information.
New social media laws: Parents should become familiar with the new social media laws in their state. It is vital to understand the age restrictions and consent requirements for social media platforms to ensure your children's safety and compliance with the law.
Stay involved: Actively engage with your children about their online experiences. Encourage open communication and create a safe space for them to discuss any concerns or encounters they have on social media.
Research by the Family Online Safety Institute found that most parents see themselves as the primarily responsible party for ensuring that their children interact with age-appropriate content. The study also reported that parents in the U.S. spend nearly 12 hours a week monitoring their children's online activities. That was significantly higher than the 7.6 hours reported in the United Kingdom or the 3.5 hours reported in France.
Utah's new social media law requiring parental consent gives parents a powerful tool to help safeguard their children's online experiences and to ensure children can navigate the digital world responsibly.
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Remember — just because an app is popular doesn't mean it's safe or appropriate for your child. Parents should be able to decide which apps to allow in their homes and on their devices. In some cases, you might even be able to create the apps they use! If you have an idea for the next great kid's app, Appstango can help you bring it to life. Contact their developers today to get started!
