Developmental psychologist Ina Koning from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is involved in the ’Guideline for Healthy and Responsible Screen and Social Media Use’. According to Koning and her colleague Helen Vossen (Universiteit Utrecht), many parents say they could use more support in guiding their children’s safe digital media use. Vossen: "It’s important to respond to this need among parents, especially because research shows that parents play a major role in shaping their children’s media habits."
In the guideline, the researchers list several characteristics of healthy screen use. One of those characteristics can be summed up in a single word: together. Koning: "By that we mean that a child and parent jointly select suitable media." Balanced media use is also essential for healthy screen habits. Vossen: "In addition to using media, children should spend enough time on physical activity, sleep, and other screen-free activities, such as playing outside."
Parents as role models
To encourage children to use screens in a healthy way, a strong parent-child relationship is key. Koning: "Show interest in your child’s online experiences. Ask questions without judgment; what they enjoy, who they talk to." Vossen adds that parents can also talk with their children about how to behave online: "We consider it normal to be kind and respectful offline. Why shouldn’t that also apply to our behavior online?" The researchers emphasize that parents should lead by example: "Parents are role models. So set a good example. Limit your own screen time when you are with your child."Social media from age 13
The guideline also includes age recommendations for social media use. A complete ban doesn’t work well, especially since moderate use can actually benefit many children-for example, by supporting social interaction or emotional expression. Koning: "An age recommendation of 13 years for social platforms such as WhatsApp and Signal offers a realistic, pedagogically responsible, and practical way to encourage healthy social media use in children. It enables caregivers to actively support children in their digital development. Once children are digitally skilled and media literate, they can-with parental guidance and consent-transition to other social media platforms."A shared social responsibility
The researchers stress that when it comes to social media use, parents are not the only ones responsible for ensuring healthy habits. Vossen: "Regulation of social media platforms, combined with our guideline, is necessary. It’s important that other parties-governments, professionals, and tech companies-actively contribute to creating a healthier digital environment for children." Healthy screen use is therefore a shared social responsibility that requires collaboration and coordination among all stakeholders.here.
The guidelines were developed in collaboration with parents, civil society organizations, and scientific experts from various fields, including pedagogy and medical science. The voices of young people were also included through a session with the National Youth Council (NJR). Their perspective provided a valuable addition to that of the organizations involved, helping ensure the guidelines are well aligned with the everyday lives of children.
