Overview

• On June 17, the Dutch government issued non-binding guidelines advising parents to forbid children under 15 from using social media apps such as TikTok and Instagram.
• Under the step-by-step approach, children may start using messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal at age 13, but social media access should be delayed until age 15.
• The guidelines recommend zero screen time for children under two, cap daily use at three hours for those aged 12 and older, encourage device-free bedrooms and propose 20-minute screen sessions followed by two hours of outdoor play.
• Health officials cited studies linking intensive social media use to panic attacks, depressive symptoms, reduced concentration, sleep problems and negative self-image in children.
• The guidelines align the Netherlands with other nations such as Australia and New Zealand that have implemented or proposed social media bans for minors while several European countries consider similar restrictions.