The Dutch government has released its official guidelines aimed at limiting children’s use of smartphones and social media.
The Guidelines for Healthy and Responsible Screen and Social Media Use recommend that children under the age of 15 avoid using social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. Additionally, it advises that smartphone use should not begin until the final year of primary school, typically around ages 11 to 12.
The guidelines provide age-specific recommendations for parents and educators.
For children under two years old, screen exposure is entirely discouraged. For adolescents aged 12 and above, daily screen time should be limited to no more than three hours.
Although the guidelines are not legally binding, the government plans to launch a nationwide awareness campaign later this summer to support parents in navigating the digital environment with their children.