Meta, the parent company of platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Threads, has recently decided to scale back fact-checking efforts, reduce censorship, and begin recommending more political content.

While this might seem like just another tech update, it could significantly impact how our kids and teens experience the digital world.

What does this mean for children and young people?

We know that Meta’s apps are popular with children and young people. According to Ofcom’s 2023 report, 41% of 3–17-year-olds use Instagram and 34% use Facebook, highlighting how these platforms play an important role in children and young people’s lives.

Fact-checking has historically been essential in ensuring more accurate online content. Meta’s decision to reduce these efforts means children and young people will be more exposed to misleading or false information. Combining this with the rapid rise in AI, critical thinking skills have never been more crucial.

Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are designed to maximise user engagement by recommending content based on emotional reactions and sensational headlines—rather than focusing on accuracy. This can leave young people feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how to process what they see.

Mark Zuckerberg himself admitted the risks of this move, saying, ​“It means that we’re going to catch less bad stuff.” For young people still learning to distinguish fact from fiction, this is extremely concerning. Instead of engaging with accurate, informative content, kids may encounter misinformation and polarising material that could be confusing, misleading and distressing.

How parents can support their children

We know that these kinds of tech updates might feel overwhelming or confusing, but you’re not alone. You can be sure that other parents are feeling the same way. Parents do have an important role in guiding children through the digital landscape, but we’re here to help. 

You don’t need to be a digital expert to help your children thrive. Instead, fostering open communication, encouraging children to question what they see, and modelling critical thinking are powerful tools. 

Simple actions like understanding how algorithms work, modelling scepticism towards unverified content, and engaging in open conversations about online experiences can make a huge difference.

For more support and ideas, join our Raising Digital Kids newsletter or Facebook group —a community where we share tips, resources and advice to help you help your children to succeed in the digital world.

Teaching coding is another great way to help children develop problem-solving skills, confidence and critical thinking. Coding encourages young minds to break down problems, think logically and find creative solutions—skills that are invaluable in today’s fast-paced, information-heavy world. At MAMA.codes, we start coding classes with digital wellbeing tips from age 3. It’s never too early to start! 

A call to action for educators

Meta’s decision highlights the urgent need for change. Schools must prioritise digital literacy to prepare children for the online world they live in, and tech companies need to do more to protect young users from the harms of misinformation and disinformation.

Parents and educators can work together to ensure kids have the tools to thrive in the digital age. By teaching critical thinking and coding skills, we can empower the next generation to navigate technology in a safe, informed and confident way.

Schools, we want to help! If you’re interested in delivering coding classes as part of your after-school programme, or a family digital balance/​digital wellbeing talk, get in touch with us at hello@MAMA.codes. Let’s work together to equip kids with the skills they need to question, create and excel — because the future is theirs to shape.