The law and data protection: COPPA and RGPD

The age of 13 is set in part by the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA ) in the United States, which prohibits the collection of personal data for minors without parental consent. In Europe, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) imposes similar restrictions to protect minors under 13.

The limits of legislation in the face of youth practices

Despite these regulations, it's easy for young people to circumvent the age rules by using false dates of birth when registering. The attractiveness of social networks and their ease of access make them very popular platforms, even for children much younger than the required age.

Why young people are attracted to social networks

Social networks respond to the need for belonging and social interaction, particularly strong among pre-teens and teenagers. Following influencers, joining peer groups, and sharing life moments respond to a desire for social connection. However, this attraction can be fraught with danger.

The potential dangers of early social networking

For young children, social networks entail risks in terms of safety, mental health and development. Understanding these dangers helps us to better supervise them.

Exposure to inappropriate content and cyberbullying
Social networks expose young people to unfiltered content, including violent videos, false or alarming information, and inappropriate exchanges. Axelle Desaint, director of Internet Sans Crainte, warns of these dangers: "Networks can be allies, but early use exposes young people to content they're not yet ready to deal with."

In addition, cyberbullying is a major scourge on social networks, where young people can be the target of repeated intimidation. This harassment can have serious consequences for their well-being, leading to severe psychological effects.

Addiction and loss of self-confidence
Social networking algorithms are designed to capture attention. The risk of addiction is particularly high among young people, who can spend hours on their screens to the detriment of their schoolwork and real-world interactions. Social networks, particularly Instagram and TikTok, can also have deleterious effects on self-confidence. For young girls, comparison with the often retouched images they see online can reduce their self-esteem, as several studies have revealed.

Digital footprint and data privacy
Young people are not always aware of the digital footprint they leave online. Sharing personal information, such as their location or photos, can expose them to dangers, including surveillance by strangers or companies that exploit their data.

The benefits of gradual, controlled authorization

Despite these dangers, it's not always realistic to put off social networking altogether. Supervised authorization can offer benefits, particularly in terms of learning and socialization.

Promoting critical thinking and digital education
Using social networks constructively enables young people to develop a critical approach to the information they encounter. Axelle Desaint recommends accompanied use: "As parents, we need to give our children the keys to using digital technology consciously."

Social platforms can also serve as educational vehicles. Properly supervised, they enable users to exchange ideas with experts, discover educational content and broaden their perspective on the world.

Socialization and inclusion
In an age when interactions are increasingly mediated by social networks, banning access to them altogether can isolate young people. Today's generation embraces digital technology as an extension of their social relationships. Controlled use can help them to feel included in the discussions and activities of their peers.

At what age should children be allowed access to social networks?

Opinions vary, but most experts recommend waiting until the age of 13 or over to authorize access to social networks, and accompanying children as they take their first steps.

Favoring a gradual, supervised approach
Full access from the age of 13 is not necessarily the best solution. Some parents choose to introduce networks gradually, starting with more restricted platforms or private, supervised accounts. It's imperative to spend time with your child on the first uses of networks, looking at the settings of each application to limit interaction with strangers.

Set clear limits and respect a balance
Setting rules for use is essential to prevent networks from taking up too much space. For example, limiting screen time, requiring an hour without the phone before bedtime, and reserving screen-free moments with the family are ways of encouraging balanced use.

Creating open dialogue and building trust
It's vital that children feel safe to discuss their online experiences with their parents. Encouraging dialogue helps answer their questions and identify any potential problems, such as cyberbullying. Axelle Desaint advises favoring "honest, ongoing dialogue so that the child feels supported, without judgment."

Practical tips for young people using social networks

A proactive approach is essential to protect young people while enabling them to benefit from the positive aspects of networks.

1. Use parental control tools
   Parental control applications and settings enable you to monitor and limit time spent on social networks. These tools can also be used to restrict access to certain content.
2. Teaching good privacy practices
   Teaching young people to protect their personal data, adjust their privacy settings and be selective with their subscribers can reduce their exposure to online dangers.
3. Encouraging a balance between screen and offline activities
   Encouraging sporting, artistic and social activities away from screens helps young people to develop diverse interests and avoid becoming addicted to social networks.
4. Encouraging critical thinking
   By teaching them to question what they see online, parents help their children avoid fake news, misleading advertising and hate speech. Regular discussions on digital issues help young people to better understand the information they encounter.

In conclusion: gentle, gradual support

The ideal age for social networking may vary from child to child, but it's crucial to encourage a gradual, well-supervised introduction. Social networks are an integral part of young people's lives today, and as parents, it's important to learn how to support their use.

Axelle Desaint sums up this approach: "Raising awareness, engaging in dialogue, and educating are the best tools to ensure that young people can take advantage of digital technology while remaining safe."

Supervising access to social networks with vigilance and benevolence helps prepare young people to evolve responsibly in the digital world.

The Soft Kids team 🌈