Talking to Your Child About Social Media and the News
When a topic is in the headlines, children often hear about it before we've had time to prepare. This guide offers simple ways to open — and hold — that conversation with honesty, warmth, and age-appropriate clarity.
Before You Begin
You don't need to have all the answers. In fact, some of the most powerful conversations start with honesty: “I've been thinking about this too, and I'm not entirely sure. What do you think?”
Children learn more from how we approach a conversation than from the information we provide. A calm, curious tone signals that no topic is off-limits — and that builds the long-term trust that matters most.
Ages 8–10
At this age, children understand fairness and rules. Keep it simple and grounded.
- “Did you hear that the government is making new rules about apps? What do you think rules are for?”
- “What's your favourite thing to do online? How does it make you feel?”
- “Is there anything online that has ever made you feel uncomfortable or confused?”
- “If you saw something that worried you online, do you know you could always tell me?”
Ages 11–13
Young people this age have strong views. Make space for them — and be ready to listen more than talk.
- “The government wants to change some rules about social media. What's your honest take on that?”
- “Do you think social media is mostly positive or negative for young people your age? What about for you specifically?”
- “Have you ever felt worse after being on your phone? What was happening?”
- “What would actually help — from your point of view — to make social media better for young people?”
Ages 14–16
Older teenagers often feel talked at. Invite them as genuine participants in the conversation.
- “I've been following the debate about social media and children. I'd actually really value your perspective — do you think it's being handled well?”
- “Do you think the government understands what it's actually like to be a young person online right now?”
- “How do you think about your own relationship with social media — is it something you feel in control of?”
- “If you could change one thing about how platforms work, what would it be?”
A Few Things to Remember
- You don't need to have all the answers — curiosity is more powerful than certainty.
- If the conversation gets difficult, it's okay to pause and come back to it.
- Avoid judgement of their platforms or habits — focus on feelings and experience.
- Sharing your own thoughts openly (including uncertainty) models exactly what you want from them.
- One honest conversation is worth more than a hundred rules.