Navigating the Social Media Ban for Teens: A Parent’s Guide to a Smoother Transition

Australia’s new social media ban for under 16s begins on 10 December, and if your household already feels emotionally wobbly, you’re not alone. The Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi) says families should expect strong reactions in the lead up to the change and in the weeks after.

AAPi Director and child psychologist Daniela McCann explains that it is completely normal for young people to feel overwhelmed as habits shift. She says, “Parents should expect some emotional turbulence as habits shift and routines change.” But she also reassures families that “most children adapt well with support” and reminds parents that “you don’t need to have all the answers. What matters most is staying calm, staying connected, and helping your teen build confidence in other parts of their lives.”

To help you get through the holiday season with fewer tears and more connection, here is an easy guide to what to expect and how to support your teen week by week.

Two Weeks Before the Ban Begins

What you may see:
Anxiety about losing access, constant questions about “how will I talk to my friends,” attempts to negotiate alternatives, irritability, sadness, and even nostalgia as they scroll through old posts.

How to support them:
Have honest conversations and validate their feelings. Help them save favourite photos, videos or messages so nothing feels “lost forever.” Work with them to set up safe alternative channels like Messenger Kids or WhatsApp. Begin planning social catch ups or holiday activities so they can visualise life beyond the algorithm.

Week One After the Ban Starts

What you may see:
Withdrawal symptoms including mood swings, boredom, restlessness and emotional outbursts. They may try to find loopholes or ask for “just five minutes.”

How to support them:
Stay calm and hold the boundary without shaming. Introduce new hobbies and family downtime, and monitor their mental health. If their distress escalates, Kids Helpline is available on 1800 55 1800 and your GP can assist with referrals to a psychologist. AAPi emphasises that early support can prevent challenges from escalating.

Week Two

What you may see:
Persistent frustration mixed with the start of slower, less intense emotional reactions. They may worry that everyone else is still online without them.

How to support them:
Keep strong routines around sleep and structure. Encourage offline play, outings with friends, or learning something new. Continue validating feelings of missing out.

Weeks Three and Four

What you may see:
Gradual acceptance. They may be rediscovering old hobbies or showing more interest in family activities. Mood generally begins to stabilise.

How to support them:
Celebrate the wins. Talk about any positive changes they notice such as sleeping better or feeling less pressure online. Continue keeping an eye on their wellbeing. If sadness or anxiety persists, AAPi recommends seeking support from a local psychologist.

Weeks Five and Six

What you may see:
New routines forming and healthier habits emerging. Occasional FOMO may still pop up but usually with far less intensity.

How to support them:
Keep communication open and continue encouraging independence. If ongoing distress is present, reach out for help. AAPi’s national directory can help you find local support via aapi.org.au/findapsychologist.

Final Thought for Parents

This transition is big for teens but it is huge for parents too. The AAPi reminds families that your calm presence, predictable routines and willingness to listen are the strongest protective factors your child has. And remember, your job is not to fix every emotion they have but to walk through it with them.

If you need a psychologist, AAPi’s national directory can help you find one near you – aapi.org.au/findapsychologist