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What age should a child start social media? It is a simple question without one universally correct age. A birthday alone does not tell you whether a child is ready to manage private information, cope with social pressure, question what they see or ask for help when something goes wrong. The design of the platform matters just as much as the age and maturity of the child. For families in the UK, the decision is also changing. The Government plans to prevent certain social med

Choosing a child’s first social app can feel surprisingly complicated. Many apps describe themselves as safe, private or suitable for children, but those words do not always mean the same thing. To choose a safe social media app for kids, look beyond the age rating. Check who can contact your child, whether accounts are private by default, how guardians are involved, what information the app collects and whether its design encourages healthy use. The safest option will not si

What You Need to Know About the Ban There is not yet a final, legally confirmed list that shows which apps will be affected by the UK social media ban. The government intends to use a model similar to the one introduced in Australia. Its current guidance names Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, and X as examples of platforms included in that model. That makes these services likely to be affected, but being named as an example is not the same as appearing in final

Quick answer: The UK social media ban for under-16s is expected to start in spring 2027, but the government has not yet announced an exact commencement date. The first regulations are due to be presented to Parliament before the end of 2026 and must be approved before the new restrictions take effect. Last reviewed: 12 August 2026 Next scheduled review: October 2026, or sooner if the government or Ofcom publishes new information The key facts for parents about the Under 16 UK

When kids start exploring the digital world, it’s natural to worry about their safety online. Finding a social app that protects children while letting them connect and learn is a challenge many parents face. I want to share what I’ve learned about safe social apps for kids, especially for ages 6 to 10. These apps can help children build friendships, develop skills, and enjoy their time online without exposing them to risks. Why Safe Social Apps Matter for Kids Kids today g

The public debate is loud: social media is either “destroying childhood” or being unfairly demonized. Parents are stuck between ban it and let them roam. The evidence is quieter and more nuanced: there is no coherent scientific basis for blanket bans on digital access for children. What the research does support is age-appropriate, safeguarded access, plus clear accountability for platforms.

At Liaura, we know that bullying — whether in school corridors or online spaces — has long-lasting impacts on children’s wellbeing. The digital world, in particular, can amplify these harms. Cyberbullying doesn’t end at the classroom door; it follows children into their homes, often unseen by parents until the damage is done.

At Liaura, we support the spirit behind these efforts: protecting children from harm and reducing unnecessary digital pressures. However, as with any complex issue, the reality is more nuanced.

Young people in the UK are facing overlapping crises. From worsening mental health and social division to fears about the future, especially climate change. The digital world often makes these problems worse, as it wasn’t built with children’s well-being in mind. Digital stewardship is essential in promoting healthy development of children. Traditional responses, like banning or limiting screen time, don’t work well. Research shows these restrictions can backfire, failing t

Educational games offer several benefits for children, and is one way to allow them online gaming time, whilst still enhancing development and learning. Here’s 5 benefits of educational online games for children! #1 - Improved Problem-Solving Skills Games with an educational aspect to them require children to use critical thinking and more problem-solving skills. As well as enjoying the entertainment aspect of playing games, children are required to analyse situations a

Have you ever tucked your little one into bed, only to find them wide-eyed after a bit of tablet time or a quick scroll on your phone? You’re not alone! Screens have crept into almost every part of family life, and while they’re brilliant for learning and fun, they can sometimes disrupt children’s sleep and bedtime routines. In this guest blog from our fellow sleep experts at Happy Linen Company, we explore how screen time can affect your child’s sleep and share simple step

Smartphones and social media are part of growing up in 2025, but with constant connectivity comes a big question for parents: what is all this screen time actually doing to our children’s health and wellbeing? A new UK-wide research project–a Cambridge University children smartphone study is investigating the answer, and it could shape how schools, families, and even the government approach online safety in the upcoming years. Why This Study Is Important Back in 2019

It might start innocently enough, your child is laughing at funny videos, scrolling for outfit ideas or books to read. Before long, you notice they seem quieter and more withdrawn. Social media and children's self-esteem are connected. Let's learn how. Social media can both build and break confidence. The positive impact of social media can include expressing creativity, learning opportunities and even community support from their peers. However, it can also negatively promo

As parents, we want our children to enjoy the benefits of being online, without stumbling into the dangers. The first step is to be aware of the risks. So, let’s break down everything you need to know about staying safe online and how to make it a team effort between you and your child.