Japan plans guidelines to limit young children’s exposure to social media

Japan is planning to introduce guidelines urging parents and guardians to limit young children’s exposure to social media and other online content, according to a draft released by the Children and Families Agency on Tuesday. The proposed measures aim to create a safer digital environment for children while ensuring their online activities are appropriate for their age and development.

The draft outlines key issues to be discussed before the guidelines are finalised, dividing children up to the age of 18 into six age groups and setting out precautions tailored to their changing needs and online habits.

For children aged up to two, a critical period for mental and physical development, parents should carefully select the content they view and prevent them from spending excessive time on digital services, the draft said.

It also stressed that direct interaction with other people should take priority during early childhood. Parents should consider the purpose and necessity of allowing children to use social media and other digital services.

For children aged six to nine, who begin using digital devices for educational purposes, the draft proposed creating more opportunities for them to think independently and make their own choices within a safe online environment.

For those aged 13 to 15, who tend to become more active on social media, parents should respect their independence and privacy rather than attempting to control every aspect of their online activities.

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The draft also highlighted the role of schools and digital service providers in protecting children. Schools should help students develop the judgement needed to use social media responsibly, while service providers should establish accessible systems through which children can seek advice and report problems.

The agency plans to discuss specific measures at expert panel meetings and other forums before finalising the guidelines, which are intended to protect children from risks associated with social media and other online services.

Source: The Japan Times