Learn where policy change is needed, what actions we are taking, and how you can get involved
Evidence-informed public policy is essential to ensure that children and youth have healthy online experiences in safe spaces.
The Centre for Healthy Screen Use advocates for policy that minimizes the negative effects of screen use on kids’ physical, mental, social, emotional, and developmental health and puts their best interests first.
We are focused on five policy priorities identified in June 2025 at a meeting of researchers, advocates, and clinicians:
1. Establishing an independent regulator with the mandate and enforcement powers to ensure online platforms and services operate in the best interests of children and youth.
2. Enhancing platform transparency and accountability.
3. Upholding children’s right to privacy and need for special protections in digital spaces.
4. Enforcing a minimum age for users on social media platforms.
5. Prohibiting advertising on digital platforms for users under the age of 18.
More information on each of these priorities is available in the report: “What We Heard: Roundtable on Canadian public policy, children and youth, and digital media”.
We work closely with other Canadian and international organizations to advocate for child and youth health, well-being and online safety. Recent advocacy initiatives from allied organizations include: