How to develop a family social media plan in the wake of landmark NY measure

As Gov. Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers reach a deal on legislation that would regulate how content appears on kids’ social media feeds, mental health experts are sharing ways parents can set boundaries for their children to safely use apps such as TikTok and X.

“I think it’s important to start talking about social media as early as kids are interested in understanding it,” Dr. Shannon Bennett, associate director of the Center for Youth Mental Health at New York-Presbyterian, told The Post Tuesday.

Parents are encouraged to consume media with their kids, particularly young ones. Bennett said if that’s not possible, creating safeguards to protect children from harmful content is key.

In developing a family social media plan, parents should consider not only the amount of screen time their kids are allowed, but also the balance of screen time against other activities, such as playing outside, reading and socializing with friends. Parents should also select the sites they feel are appropriate.

“Ideally, even for older kids, parents should have access to their kids’ social media channels so they can see if there is inappropriate content or bullying or [chatter] that may be veering in a direction that the parent doesn’t feel comfortable with,” Bennett said.

“The parent is ideally aware of who their child is connecting with online, because we know it’s so easy for kids to connect with strangers or people who may not even be who they say they are,” she added.