Hey, it’s Sarah Jensen here, your go-to for all things web and wonder from the sunny streets of Austin, Texas. Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s a little out of my usual realm but equally fascinating and important: the digital lives of children under 13. Despite the clear rules against it, these digital natives are navigating the social media seas with surprising savvy. Let’s unpack this, shall we?
Though it’s technically against the rules for kids under 13 to use social networks in France, that little detail hasn’t slowed them down. In fact, a significant 71% of these youngsters are actively engaging on social media platforms, according to the 2023 Born Social study. This figure is a wake-up call, especially when considering the potential risks of cyberbullying and privacy breaches these platforms can pose.
It’s also worth mentioning that a whopping 83% of 12-year-olds have their own smartphones, making access to the digital world practically unavoidable. With a smartphone in hand, the allure of the ever-popular social networks is hard to resist.
YouTube: The Undisputed Champion Among Kids Under 13
When these young netizens do hop online, they’re most likely heading straight to YouTube. This platform isn’t just a hit with the kids; it’s a favorite across all ages. But for the under-13 crowd, it’s particularly appealing, thanks to YouTubers like Michou and MrBeast, who specialize in a mix of video gaming and challenge-based content that captivates young viewers.
Interestingly, despite the magnetic pull of their smartphones and the internet, a quarter of these kids acknowledge they’re probably a bit too glued to their screens. And yet, the number of children under 13 wishing for even more screen time continues to climb, with a significant increase of fourteen percentage points since 2022.
This year’s study also highlighted a shift in the social media landscape for this age group. While the use of platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp has seen a downturn, BeReal is bucking the trend. This platform has seen a 5% increase in sign-ups among 11 to 12-year-olds, marking it as the only network to grow in popularity within this demographic.
The digital engagement of children under 13 is a complex issue, blending concerns of safety and privacy with the undeniable reality that these platforms can offer unique opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection. As we navigate this digital age, it’s clear that understanding and guiding young users in their online journeys is more crucial than ever.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. How do you feel about kids under 13 using social media? What measures do you think could help balance the benefits and risks? Drop your insights in the comments below—let’s keep the conversation going.
