Instagram is considered the best social media platform for chatting, calling, sharing posts, and so on. With over a billion active users, it is currently the most popular app and is widely . It was launched in 2010 and gained traction among young demographics. This app is easy to use and has an engaging interface. It allows you to post pictures, videos and stories to share with followers. With time it has evolved as a hub for sharing experiences and discovering new trends. Feeds are curated according to the personality and interests of users. It emphasizes visual content and has transformed into more than just a social network. A study in October 2023 showed 8 percent of users are between 13 and 17 years old.

So the question arises, is Instagram safe for kids?

Kids love for Instagram

The app is rated 13 plus and can downloaded for free on devices. It is an image or video-sharing app with option to go on live. Kids can create a profile either private or public where they can share their content. Kids want to have a large number of followers to boast about. The more the number of followers, the more popularity in the circle. Kids also create pages of their idols and share reels. Girls usually create BTS fan pages, whereas boys create pages of Marvel, and Superheroes usually. Some kids create accounts to follow their favorite celebrities. They eagerly watch their stories to stay up-to-date.

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Risks of Instagram

In the case of a public account, anyone can message your kid. There are endless stories and articles on cyberbullying on Instagram. According to the Annual Bullying Survey in 2023, 42 percent of respondents have experienced the issue. It can cause emotional distress, and depression in kids, and more. Instagram has been linked to negative body image and anxiety. Teenage girls particularly have bad influence on mental health. Because the platform tends to create a comparison of perfection that scars kids emotionally. App is flooded with misleading influencers who encourage kids to buy fake, harmful and unnecessary products. Kids can fall for scams easily. Instagram collects private information and kids can be stalked.

How to Keep Kids Safe

It is essential to set up privacy controls on Instagram. Unfortunately, the app does not offer any specific parental controls but measures can be taken. By disabling direct messages, no one can message kids who don’t follow them. Set their accounts private, so they first get a request instead of message. Turn of Mentions. Mute features is different from blocking but stops showing certain profiles on kids feeds. Parental supervision is necessary, keep an eye on kids how long they are spending on the app and what accounts they follow. Set rules and limits. Kids can also choose to notify parents if they report something. Before enabling parental control features talk to your kids.

A Balanced Use

Instagram offers many benefits in terms of connectivity, self-expression, and creativity. However, the importance of balance is crucial to recognize. Excessive use can have negative impacts on kids. Establishing screen time limits, setting boundaries, and parents-kid talk fosters a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Ask them about their favorite influencer, their favorite feature, and the accounts they follow. Turn off sharing location and offensive comments. By setting rules and clear guidelines the app is safe for kids and they can enjoy the positive aspects.