Families may soon see new measures under consideration in the UK: a daily cap of two hours per social media app for children, combined with a 10 PM curfew on usage. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has highlighted the addictive nature of platforms like Instagram and TikTok and emphasized the urgency of safeguarding children’s digital wellbeing.
Why the Government Is Considering This
Kyle warned that many apps are designed to keep users scrolling endlessly, often at the expense of mental health. He stated that children’s online safety should be treated with the same seriousness as their physical safety.
Supporters like Ian Russell, whose daughter Molly tragically died by suicide after viewing harmful content, argue that incremental changes are not enough. They call for stronger legislation to hold tech companies accountable for business models that prioritize engagement over safety.
Evidence Behind the Concerns
Recent data from the Yale Department of Psychiatry and Columbia School of Nursing show that teenagers spending most hours daily on social media face significantly heightened risks of anxiety and depression. Late-night usage has also been linked to disrupted sleep and poorer academic performance.
A survey by More in Common revealed that parents view excessive screen time as a more serious threat to children’s mental health than bullying or alcohol. Meanwhile, healthcare experts highlight risks such as impaired sleep, delayed speech, lower focus, and rising anxiety, especially when damage stems from addictive smartphone design.
What Technology Already Offers and Why It is Not Enough
Both Apple and Google offer built-in screen time tools, and platforms like TikTok and Instagram include optional usage limits. TikTok launched a 60-minute default for under-18s in 2023. But uptake remains low. Critics argue these features are inconsistent, confusing, and easily overridden by young users or neglected by caregivers.
Are Rules Coming and Can They Work?
Under the Online Safety Act 2023, Ofcom can enforce rules to limit harmful exposure including algorithmic features designed to engage users. Starting July 2025, platforms must offer age-appropriate content and privacy controls or face fines up to 10% of global turnover.
However, challenges remain. A feasibility study has been launched to gauge evidence gaps before enacting further limits. Critics argue that issues like algorithmic bias, access equity, and enforcement across major U.S.-based platforms pose legal and logistical obstacles.
The Global Context
Similar moves are happening abroad: Australia will soon ban under-16s from social media; some European nations are exploring age limits, and China enforces strict nighttime app curfews for minors.
In the UK, there is also political momentum behind mandatory age verification and tighter data-consent regulations at 16 instead of 13. A bill to ban smartphones in schools is also under debate, though enforcement remains controversial.
Key Takeaways for Families
- The proposed 2-hour limit per app daily and 10 PM curfew represent a significant shift toward regulated digital safety for minors;
- These initiatives are rooted in public health concerns around addiction, mental health, and disturbed sleep patterns;
- Critics advocate for a broader approach rather than piecemeal regulations which includes stricter online-safety laws, parental support tools, and company accountability;
- Effective outcomes depend not only on laws, but on cross-sector enforcement, education, and parental engagement.
If implemented thoughtfully, these rules could improve children’s sleep, reduce exposure to harmful content, and encourage healthier routines. But lasting change must come from tackling the business models and systemic designs that drive harmful engagement, alongside building parents’ capacity to guide children’s digital lives.
