Rising Concerns Over Children’s Screen Time and Online Safety
Recent survey findings reveal a growing concern about the amount of time children are spending on digital devices. According to preliminary data, one in five children spends at least seven hours a day using phones and tablets. For some, this figure is even higher—two children aged 10 and 11 reported spending up to nine hours daily on screens during weekends.
The survey, conducted by the children’s commissioner for Wales, gathered insights from children and young people aged between seven and 18. The results highlight the increasing presence of digital devices in their lives and the need for better safeguards.
Digital Guardians Project Helps Protect Young Users
Kiishi, a 13-year-old from Swansea, is part of a digital guardians project aimed at helping protect children online. She shared her concerns about how technology can be “almost controlling.” Her experience reflects the growing awareness among young people about the potential risks of excessive screen time and the influence of online platforms.
New regulations under the Online Safety Act will come into effect soon, including age verification requirements on certain websites and apps. These rules aim to create a safer digital environment for children and address emerging challenges in online safety.
Parental Controls and Screen Time Management
Among the 340 respondents, more than half reported having rules at home to limit screen time and the types of apps they can use. This is especially important as concerns grow about increased online activity during school holidays.
A third of the participants said they had to leave their devices downstairs at bedtime, while 47% were only allowed access to specific applications. However, many admitted to bypassing built-in restrictions. For example, about three-quarters of those who used TikTok admitted to turning off its one-hour limit function for under-18s.
Calls for Stronger Online Safeguards
Rocio Cifuentes, the children’s commissioner for Wales, emphasized the importance of the Online Safety Act in protecting children and improving their online experiences. She stressed that mechanisms to prevent excessive screen time must be stronger, given the rapid evolution of digital technologies.
The UK government is also considering ways to limit the amount of time children spend on social media. Rufus, a 15-year-old from Llantwit Major, is part of a digital guardians project run by Platform, a mental health charity, and the NSPCC. He believes there should be more restrictions but warns against approaches that could be seen as limiting fun and enjoyment.
Voices of Young People on Online Safety
Ada, a 12-year-old from Cardiff, joined the digital guardians project to help keep children safe online. She highlighted the dangers of AI-generated misinformation and the need for stricter controls on harmful content. While she acknowledges the educational benefits of the internet, she argues that negative aspects like disinformation must be addressed.
The UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom, will enforce new rules requiring social media platforms to verify users’ ages and adjust algorithms to filter out harmful content. Under the Online Safety Act, companies must also remove illegal content and introduce laws against sending unsolicited sexual imagery online.
Responsibility Lies with Tech Companies
Matthew Sowemimo, NSPCC associate head of public affairs for child safety online, emphasized the importance of involving young people in discussions about online safety. He argued that the responsibility for protecting children from online harm should not fall on them but rather on tech companies, which must design and implement robust safety features.
As new online safety rules take effect, experts warn that the fast-paced development of technology will likely lead to further changes. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to stay informed and take proactive steps to ensure their children’s safety online.
Tips for Keeping Children Safe Online
Parents can take several measures to protect their children, such as setting clear boundaries around screen time, using parental control tools, and encouraging open conversations about online behavior. Educating children about the risks of sharing personal information and recognizing harmful content is also crucial.
While the internet offers many positive opportunities, it is essential to balance these benefits with strong safeguards to ensure a safe and healthy digital environment for all users.