What is Instagram?
Instagram is a photo and video sharing app owned by Meta (formerly Facebook). Users can share photos, Stories (which disappear after 24 hours), Reels (short videos), send direct messages (DMs) and broadcast live. The Explore page shows content based on algorithms.
Since 2024, Instagram has introduced Teen Accounts — automatic protections for users aged 13–17, including private accounts by default for under-16s, restricted DMs and content filters.
Age rating: 13.
Why do kids like it?
- Self-expression — sharing photos and videos that show who they are, or who they want to be.
- Following friends, creators and celebrities — keeping up with people they care about.
- Reels — short, entertaining videos. It’s the TikTok competitor built into Instagram.
- Group chats — DMs with friend groups are a major part of the social experience.
- Visual storytelling — aesthetics, themes and identity are expressed through images.
What are the real risks?
- Unwanted contact — message requests from strangers and live streaming can expose children to unknown people.
- Algorithmic content — Explore and Reels can surface content the child didn’t search for, including inappropriate material.
- Body image and comparison — curated images and influencer content can create unrealistic expectations about appearance and lifestyle.
- Cyberbullying — comments, messages and screenshot sharing can be used for bullying.
- Location tagging — posts can reveal where the child is.
Settings to check
- Teen Account: Review the automatic protections applied to accounts aged 13–17, including private-by-default, DM restrictions and content filters.
- Set the account to private: Profile → Settings and privacy → Account privacy → toggle Private account. Only approved followers can see posts.
- Restrict who can message: Profile → Settings and privacy → Messages and story replies → set Message controls to limit who can send requests.
- Enable comment filters: Profile → Settings and privacy → Hidden words → turn on Hide comments and Hide message requests.
- Turn off activity status: Profile → Settings and privacy → Show activity status → toggle off.
- Remove location from posts: Edit any post → tap the location → remove it before sharing.
- Set up Family Center: Link your account through Instagram’s Family Center to view time spent, set daily limits and receive notifications.
How to talk about it
“Who follows you and who do you follow? Is there anyone you don’t know in real life?”
“Have you ever received messages from people you don’t know? What did you do?”
“How do you feel after scrolling for a while? Sometimes it can affect your mood without you noticing. That’s normal.”
“Do you think what people post on Instagram shows their real life, or just the best parts?”
Last reviewed: April 2026