US paediatricians call for systemic reforms to protect children's digital mental health
The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued groundbreaking new guidance on safeguarding children's mental wellbeing in the digital era, moving beyond traditional screen time restrictions to emphasise broader societal and corporate responsibilities.
Shifting focus from parental burden to structural accountability
Jessica Schleider, an adolescent psychologist and professor at Northwestern University, described the policy statement as "really refreshing to see" because it challenges conventional approaches that place excessive safety burdens on individual parents. Common advice like limiting screen access or constant parental monitoring is not only impractical but potentially invasive for adolescents, Schleider explained.
Instead, the AAP advocates for regulations targeting harmful content and algorithms that lead young users toward damaging material. This nuanced approach contrasts with recent moves toward outright social media bans, such as Australia's prohibition for under-16s, which Schleider called "very unfortunate" because bans fail to make platforms safer while cutting off vital support networks.
Practical strategies for families navigating digital landscapes
The guidance includes actionable advice for caregivers, recommending family-wide digital habit tracking and parental controls. Dr Tiffany Munzer, lead author of the statement, acknowledged "it's hard to monitor screens 24/7" but suggested intermittent check-ins to understand children's online activities.
Teri McKean, a mental health professional with four children, combines technological tools with open communication. She uses parental control systems that require permission for app downloads and flag problematic content, but emphasises daily conversations about digital usage with her children.
Building communication bridges and addressing difficult topics
Munzer stressed the importance of creating early communication channels by asking children about their digital experiences. Viewing social media as shared family activity can reduce isolation and strengthen relationships, as demonstrated by McKean's enjoyment of watching KPop videos with her children.
However, some topics remain challenging. Chicago educator Ben Blair discussed the difficulty of addressing issues like sexploitation with his teenage son, noting such conversations represent "a stark reminder that he is entering a place in time where he'll no longer be insulated from evil."
Systemic failures and the need for safe alternatives
Both Munzer and Schleider agreed that current digital systems often set parents up for failure, with platforms designed to retain attention rather than protect wellbeing. They advocate for stronger corporate accountability and increased access to safe "third places" like after-school activities and green spaces.
Blair compared parental responsibilities to being seatbelts in the digital world – uncomfortable but essential. The new guidance represents a significant shift toward recognising that protecting children's mental health requires collective action beyond individual family efforts, addressing both digital environments and real-world alternatives.
