Supporting children as they return to school after the social media changes

Delaying account access until 16 gives young people more time to develop digital literacy, critical reasoning, confidence and greater resilience. To help families navigate this transition, Life Ed has shared practical tips to help families maintain connection and wellbeing as the new school year begins.  

Start positive changes at home

Have open, ongoing chats with your kids about online safety, the law, and supporting them through the change. You can start the conversation by: asking what they think of social media (good/bad), listening to what they have to say and talking about their feelings. Reassure they’re not alone, many of their friends and families are navigating this change too. 

You might like to: 

• Ask which apps/platforms they use most
• What they might miss and what new opportunities might appear. 

Supporting connection and belonging 

Connection is at the heart of children’s wellbeing. Families can support this by helping young people find meaningful ways to stay in touch and get involved: 

• Encourage regular get-togethers, sport or creative activities 

• Help them join school or community groups where they feel valued 

• Explore safe, moderated and age-appropriate online apps that align with their interests and needs

Supporting children through uncertainty 

Validate their emotions. It’s normal to feel unsettled by change. You can: 

• Acknowledge their emotions and reassure them their feelings matter. 

• Reassure them their friendships are evolving, not disappearing. 

• Help them identify who they want to stay close to and how. 

• Encourage them to come to you for help, knowing they’ll always be heard

Practical ways to stay connected 

 Families can take simple, practical steps to support children’s digital wellbeing: 

• Set family screen-time goals and create device-free zones
• Save special photos and memories from old accounts.
• Role-model your own social media reduction and use parental controls collaboratively

• Keep contact details for important friends. 

• Set balanced routines around devices that support healthy habits. 

While social media access has changed, the goal remains the same: helping children feel supported, connected and safe online and offline. 

At Life Ed, we know children flourish when adults stay involved, listen with empathy and guide them through change. These moments build resilience, strengthen relationships and help young people grow into confident, connected learners ready for every new chapter. 

For more practical tips for parents and families, explore e-Safety’s resources including:

• Social Media Age Restrictions Hub– Information, guidance and tools to help you talk to children and young people about the changes and support their online experiences.
• FAQs for parents and carers– Responses to frequently asked questions addressing families’ concerns about the change.
• First Nations resources– Co-designed with First Nations communities, the parent and carer yarning guide, student workbook and digital toolkit explain the change, why it matters and how to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people through the transition.
• Regional family support– Explore the dedicated online hub with FAQs and practical guidance for parents and carers, including conversations starters, youth-friendly content, and where to go for support.