What experts say II.

               Media influence on children is increasing each year as more sophisticated types of media have been developed. The dangers for pre-teens, aged 9-12, and teens, age 13-15, include many risks like identity theft, privacy concerns, social isolation or increase in mental health concerns such as anxiety, poor sleep, and depression. There are also many risks of becoming a target of cyberbullying or sexting.

                Some of these risks are a result of parents not educating their children on safe internet use or limited adult supervision. On the other hand, social media can also be beneficial, in terms of forming stronger friendships, both from their usual social circle, but also from various groups that one might be interested in (LGBTQIA+, artistic, cultural, etc.). It can also reduce social isolation, increase inclusion, or improve access to diversity.

However, to benefit from the positive aspects of technology and digital media, children along with their parents need to be aware of possible risks and how to avoid them. Children need to be thought effective ways to protect their privacy, and this should be modeled by good examples provided by trusted adults. Appropriate restrictions need to be applied to networking, so children can safely access them, and laws need to be in place to protect children from any type of harm or victimization. 

Ref.: 

Dyer, T. (2018). The effects of social media on children. Dalhousie Journal of Interdisciplinary Management, 14. https://ojs.library.dal.ca/djim/article/view/7855