What is Instagram?
Instagram is a photo and video sharing platform 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 restrictions for users under 16, including private account by default and restricted content.
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?
- DMs from strangers — even with a private account, message requests can come from unknown people.
- The Explore page can surface content the child didn’t search for — including content that is inappropriate or disturbing. The algorithm is designed for engagement, not safety.
- Body image and comparison pressure — curated images can create unrealistic expectations about appearance and lifestyle. Research shows this can negatively affect self-image, particularly in girls.
- Cyberbullying — comments, messages and sharing of screenshots can be used for bullying.
- Location tagging — posts can contain location information that reveals where the child is.
- Disappearing messages can be screenshotted — just like Snapchat, this creates a false sense of security.
- Live streaming — children can go live and be seen by followers in real time, with the possibility of unwanted comments.
- Data collection — Meta collects extensive data about users’ activities.
- Influencer culture — can promote unrealistic standards for appearance, consumption and lifestyle.
Settings to check
- Teen Account: For users under 16 this is automatically enabled. The account is private by default, sensitive content is restricted, DMs are restricted, and notification breaks are on.
- Set the account to private: Settings → Privacy → Private Account. Only approved followers can see posts.
- Restrict who can message: Settings → Privacy → Messages → set to “Only people you follow”.
- Hide like counts: Settings → Privacy → Posts → Hide Like Counts. This can reduce comparison pressure.
- Block and restrict accounts: Use the “Restrict” feature to hide comments from specific people without them knowing.
- Comment filters: Settings → Privacy → Comments → enable filters for offensive words and phrases.
- Turn off activity status: Settings → Privacy → Activity Status → turn off. This prevents others from seeing when the child is online.
- Remove location from posts: Edit posts → remove location tag. Teach children not to add location by default.
- Supervision features: Instagram offers Supervision features where parents can see who their child follows and who messages them, set time limits and view time spent.
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 received messages from people you don’t know? You don’t have to reply — but it’s good to let me know.”
“How do you feel after scrolling for a while? Sometimes it can affect your mood without you noticing. That’s normal.”
“A lot of what you see on Instagram is carefully selected and edited. It’s not the full picture of someone’s life — it’s just what they choose to show.”
Last reviewed: March 2026