The Dutch government today advised parents to ban children under the age of 15 from using social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram to protect their mental health.
With this non-binding advice, the Netherlands is following the example of other countries.
French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to ban social media for children under 15 in France if it doesn't happen at the European level "within a few months."
Australia and New Zealand are pushing for a ban on social media for children under 16, as is Spain.
"Intensive use of screens and social media can be harmful to the (mental) health and development of children," the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport said.
"Consider sleep disturbances, panic attacks, depressive symptoms, decreased concentration and negative self-image," the statement added.
The ministry distinguishes between the use of smartphones, messaging apps (such as WhatsApp and Signal), and social networks such as TikTok or Instagram.
The government recommends that smartphones should not be allowed before the equivalent of fifth grade in the Netherlands, i.e. the age of 11 or 12. Since then, it has been estimated that messaging apps should be allowed, but social networks not before the age of 15.
"A gradual approach is effective. First learn to communicate via messaging, then familiarize yourself with social media," the government stated.
The ministry also issued guidelines on screen time - none until the age of two, and no more than three hours for those over 12.
However, healthy screen use is not just about limiting screen time, the government said, adding that a balance needs to be found with other activities.
Several European Union countries, including France, Spain and Greece, recently called on Brussels to further regulate the use of online platforms by children, amid concerns about their addiction, as well as the dangers of cyberbullying and the spread of hate speech.
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