Countries around the world are becoming increasingly worried about how social media affects children’s health, learning, and daily lives. Concerns about screen addiction, sleep problems, online bullying, and endless scrolling have pushed governments to explore stricter digital safety rules for young users. Now, another European country is preparing to take a major step. Norway is planning a new law that could ban children under the age of 16 from using popular social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, and X.
In fact, did you know? Too Much Social Media May Be Hurting Kids’ Focus
Why Norway wants to limit social media use for children
The proposal was announced by Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, who said the goal is to protect children from spending too much time online and from the harmful effects linked to social media algorithms and excessive screen exposure.
Under the proposed law, technology companies, rather than parents, would be responsible for checking users’ ages and preventing underage children from creating accounts. Officials believe stronger age checks could help reduce children’s exposure to addictive online content and endless scrolling systems designed to keep users online for longer periods.
Supporters of the proposal say it could encourage children to spend more time on sports, hobbies, friendships, outdoor activities, and learning instead of screens. However, critics argue that social media can also support creativity, education, communication, and self-expression when used responsibly.
Also read- Economic Survey 2025-26 Proposes Social Media Age Limit for Children
Subscribe to The Junior Age Newspaper – click here. Know more fun facts on The Junior Age’s YouTube.
– By Raagini Rajyalakshmi Singh, Grade XI IB-1D, The Shri Ram School, Moulsari, Gurugram