The internet has revolutionized the way our children interact with the world, and the Surgeon General has expressed concern about the effect it has had on the health and well-being of our children.

In a recent statement, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy says he believes 13 is too young for children to be on social media platforms because although sites allow children of that age to join, kids are still “developing their identity.”

Meta, Twitter, and a host of other social media giants currently allow 13-year-olds to join their platforms.

“I, personally, based on the data I’ve seen, believe that 13 is too early … It’s a time where it’s really important for us to be thoughtful about what’s going into how they think about their own self-worth and their relationships and the skewed and often distorted environment of social media often does a disservice to many of those children,” Murthy said on “CNN Newsroom.”

It also has the potential to expose children to risks and harms, such as cyberbullying, predatory behavior, and exposure to inappropriate content.” The internet has opened up a whole new world of opportunities for our children. They can access information that was previously unavailable, allowing them to become more informed about the world around them. They can also connect with their peers, allowing them to build relationships and find support from people who understand them.

In addition, the internet has opened up educational opportunities for our children, making it possible for them to learn and grow in ways that were not available before. Unfortunately, the internet also has some risks and harms associated with it. Cyberbullying is one of the most common risks, with children being exposed to bullying, harassment, and other negative behaviors.

Additionally, the internet has made it easier for predators to gain access to our children, putting them in harm’s way. Finally, the internet has allowed our children to access inappropriate content, including explicit images and videos, which can negatively impact their development. In order to ensure the safety and well-being of our children, it is important that we take steps to protect them from the risks and harm associated with the internet. This includes monitoring their online activity and setting boundaries for their internet use. It is also important that we educate our children about internet safety and help them develop the skills necessary to navigate the internet safely and responsibly.

Overall, the internet has had a significant impact on our children's lives. While it has opened a world of opportunity for them, it also has risks and harms associated with it. As parents, it is our responsibility to ensure our children's safety and well-being, and this includes taking steps to protect them from the potential dangers associated with the internet. By doing so, we can help ensure our children have a safe and secure online experience.