Two-thirds of UK parents back social media time cap for children
Two-thirds of UK parents support a proposed government plan to limit daily social media use for children to two hours, according to new research.
Data from a Uswitch Broadband survey of 500 parents reveals significant backing for the government's consideration of social media restrictions for under-18s, with 37% of parents strongly supporting the measure and another 29% expressing some support.
Parental support and concerns
The survey found that, among parents questioned, 66% backed government proposals for a two-hour cap on daily social media activity for children. Reported levels of children's social media use varied, with 21% of parents stating their child used social platforms for between one and three hours each day. A further 12% believed their child spent more than three hours per day online.
However, parents' ability to regulate and monitor usage appears uneven. Nearly one in five parents (19%) admitted they lacked confidence in managing their child's social media habits, and 7% said they did not manage it at all. The research also highlighted some parental uncertainty, with 21% unsure what constitutes reasonable screen time for children. Additionally, 14% reported not having enough knowledge about the apps and platforms their children use.
Challenges to digital supervision
Monitoring children's activity on social media was cited as the most common challenge, according to 35% of respondents. Other significant hurdles included resistance from children (32%) and the complexity posed by the use of multiple devices or accounts (also 32%).
"We know from our research that 32% of parents struggle to monitor social media use as their children have access to multiple devices or accounts, and it's not just social media parents need to think about. Keeping tabs on YouTube, streaming platforms, and gaming services can be just as time-consuming, and they're often accessed on shared family devices. Broadband-level controls allow parents to manage these platforms consistently, whether they're being used on a phone, computer, or games console."
These comments were provided by Max Beckett, Broadband Expert at Uswitch, in response to the findings about the challenges facing parents.
Ongoing government discussion
The research coincides with the government's review of potential limits on children's use of social media. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle suggested that some parents feel "disempowered" when trying to guide children toward healthier online habits. The government is considering not only the proposed two-hour daily cap but also broader measures to support families in managing children's digital lives.
Online interest in parental control tools remains high, with monthly UK searches for terms such as 'apps for parental control' exceeding 1,900, according to keyword analysis in the research. This reflects a wider concern about children's exposure to various online platforms beyond social media, including streaming and gaming services.
Expert guidance for families
In response to these findings, Uswitch has shared tips and practical advice for parents seeking to manage their children's online activities. Max Beckett highlighted the resources available through home Wi-Fi and broadband providers:
"Beyond settings which can be changed directly in social media platforms, parents can also place certain controls through their broadband provider. Many Wi-Fi routers include features such as family filters to block inappropriate content, the ability to plan connectivity hours, or even the option to set access for specific devices like tablets, consoles, or laptops."
Beckett stressed the importance of maintaining open communication within families to foster cooperation:
"Have open conversations: The first step to avoiding resistance from young family members is to have a calm discussion around what they enjoy out of their time online, allowing space for children to help set their boundaries with your support. Share your concerns openly and focus on the positive impact of managing their social media use together."
He also advocated for clear rules and personal example-setting:
"Set boundaries: Finding the balance is one of the hardest parts of monitoring your children's social media usage. Start by agreeing on daily limits and creating screen-free zones like the dinner table and before bed. It may also be helpful to model this behaviour yourself, so be mindful of your scrolling habits to show you're aligned as a family on your approach to social media."
Finally, Beckett advised that rules should adapt as children grow:
"Be flexible: One size does not fit all when it comes to striking the balance of social media use. Regularly review limits set on your children as they grow, and try allowing them to set their own limits to feel empowered by their online choices. Consider allowing more time for special occasions or adapting rules during downtime like the school holidays."
The debate around children's social media usage continues as government policymakers consult on further measures, while parental appetite for digital boundaries and practical support remains high.
