Authored by Purva Grover
Dubai, UAE- Foremost, start by placing yourself in the shoes of children. They are angsty, convinced they already know better than adults, and have grown up with constant access to the internet. During the pandemic and other uncertain times lately, it became not just a source of entertainment but a lifeline for studies, connection, and reassurance about the safety of loved ones far away.
Now, they are being told they can no longer doomscroll Reels or make endless TikToks with friends, and words like “prohibited,” “restrictions,” and “control” are being used to describe a decision that is, in essence, designed for their well-being. It is meant to protect them—much like a seat belt in a car, better-grip shoes on a court, or ballet shoes in class. Even broccoli becomes acceptable when it’s covered in cheese. It is, at its core, about wellness.
Don’t make these mistakes when explaining the social media ban to children.
Seeing the world through their screen: The framing matters. Anything that sounds like a restriction instantly triggers a sense of lost freedom. Instead of framing it as something taken away, it helps to explain that platforms are being given time to implement age-appropriate safeguards and that access—where appropriate—comes with maturity and accountability, much like earning a license as a young adult. When something is simply “forbidden,” children often find ways around it; and perhaps, in moderation, their imagination in doing so is not always a bad thing in an age of digital dependency.
Children mirror what they see: Old rules still win. Children imitate more than we realize. If adults reduce their own screen time (and we all can and should!) and model moderation, children are far more likely to follow. Behavior speaks louder than instruction.
Social media is not a bad thing: It is also important to talk about what it actually offers them. It can answer questions in seconds—from “how to concentrate better” to “how to improve vocabulary” or even “how to make pizza.” The algorithm is designed to serve them endlessly, but learning how to exist without constant digital assistance is equally essential.
Understanding why they log on: Understanding their usage is key. Is it for staying connected with friends, learning beauty tips, or simply a habit of scrolling while eating? Once the need is understood, alternatives can be offered—more playdates, books on makeup, board games, or turning dinner into conversation time again. I remember transitioning from phone to reading by replacing a paperback with a Kindle; nothing felt abruptly taken away, yet the habit slowly shifted. Supervised use, rather than total deprivation, can ease the transition.
We are not from different worlds, just different eras: And finally, avoid the trap of comparing childhoods. “We didn’t even have…” doesn’t help. Today’s children are not from the same technological world—they are digital natives, just as we were children of Walkmans and Polaroids. They decorate Zoom backgrounds instead of bedroom walls. Instead of rewinding time, we need to grow with them. Ask them how new features work. Let them teach us sometimes.
About the author: Purva Grover is a Dubai-based author who also runs a literary society dedicated to nurturing readers and fostering community. With over 19 years of writing & reading experience, she curates engaging, age-appropriate conversations that resonate with children, young adults, and the wider community.
