What should Ontario do to protect our children from social media harms?
I regularly hear from parents about the impact of social media on our children. Evidence is showing that excessive screen time and social media use are increasingly linked to mental health concerns in youth, including addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Governments and institutions are taking steps to curb the harmful effects of social media on our children. Cell phone use is banned in Ontario public schools. Ontario school boards are taking legal action against social media companies. Countries like Australia have enacted outright social media bans for children under 16.
It’s time for Ontario to investigate what more we can do here. That’s why I’m calling on the Ontario Legislature to investigate the impact of social media on youth and develop clear policy recommendations for the legislature and institutions to enact. This could range from restricting the use of addictive platform features, restricting use for children under a certain age, or clear health warnings from Public Health.
Just as we have warnings for tobacco or alcohol, we need evidence-based guidance for digital well-being.
Add your voice. Sign the petition to help protect youth mental health and ensure stronger oversight of social media platforms.