Banning Social Media is the solution?

Many of you might have heard that Australia is the first country in the World to “ban” Social Media for kids below 16 years old last week. I am not going to lie, I did not disagree and cannot hide that some part of me is happy. However, for the last few days, I have been listening, watching news and debates about how good the Australian decision was… so it got me thinking over and over and even talking with my kids about it, to get their thoughts and for my surprise, they are OK with the ban…🤨

BUT, still not sure whether I am still fully convinced that banning social media would solve most of the teenagers and parents’ problems. Here are the questions/thoughts that I am trying to find out an answer and maybe you could help me?

1. Following my previous blog, is really Social Media bad for our kids?

• What if, it is not “Social Media”, but as us as Parents, who need to share more time with our kids and NOT just telling them “DON’T spend too much time on screen/social media”. What we do to spend and share more times with our kids?

•   What are the “un-intended” consequences of banning social media for kids? Especially for those kids, who have difficulties in making friends or don’t like too much personal interaction, because they are shy, etc. I used to be shy when in high school and always pushed myself to talk and make friends…but it was hard and I wish I could use social media by then…

• What if, we cut kid’s creativity or opportunities. I know that there are young kids with big ideas or even earlier “business” sense… by banning social media, are we delaying their development as well?

It is quite difficult to find the right balance, but I think that as parent, we need to… What do you think?