In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of children’s daily lives, shaping how they interact, communicate, and build friendships. In an article published in The Daily Star, LIRNEasia Senior Research Fellow Sujata Gamage examines the growing dependence of children on social media and the risks associated with these platforms. She argues that while digital platforms may not be suitable environments for children, addressing these challenges requires more than restricting access. As physical spaces for children to socialise, play, explore, and form meaningful friendships continue to disappear, rebuilding safe physical spaces is essential to creating a healthier social ecology of childhood. 
In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of children’s daily lives, shaping how they interact, communicate, and build friendships. In an article published in The Daily Star, LIRNEasia Senior Research Fellow Sujata Gamage examines the growing dependence of children on social media and the risks associated with these platforms. She argues that while digital platforms may not be suitable environments for children, addressing these challenges requires more than restricting access. As physical spaces for children to socialise, play, explore, and form meaningful friendships continue to disappear, rebuilding safe physical spaces is essential to creating a healthier social ecology of childhood.