The government has launched a consultation looking a measures to protect children on social media, gaming platforms and AI chatbots.

Parents, guardians, and young people across the UK are being asked to share their opinions on children's digital wellbeing.

The consultation will look at whether there should be a minimum age for social media and if so what age would be right.

It will look at whether platforms should be required to switch of addictive features like infinite scrolling and autoplay and whether mandatory overnight curfews would help children sleep better and what age they should apply to.

The consultation will question whether children should be able to use AI chatbots without restriction and how age verification enforcement should be strengthened.

It will also explore how to help children and parents navigate the digital world.

The consultation is open to parents, carers, young people, those who work with children, civil society organisation, academics and industry. It will close on 26th May 2026 and the government will respond in the summer.

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: "The path to a good life is a great childhood, one full of love, learning and play. That applies just as much to the online world as it does to the real one.

"We know parents everywhere are grappling with how much screen time their children should have, when they should give them a phone, what they are seeing online, and the impact all of this is having.

"This is why we’re asking children and parents to take part in this landmark consultation on how young people can thrive in an age of rapid technological change.

"Together, we will create a digital world that gives young people the childhood they deserve and prepares them for the future."

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: "Technology is fundamentally changing childhood. Used well, it can open up new opportunities for learning, creativity and connection, but only if we get the balance right. That is why we want to hear directly from parents, teachers and young people about how we strike that balance and give children the very best childhood in a digital age.

"Today’s consultation is a vital next step. For the first time, we will also publish guidance on healthy screen time for children aged 5 to 16, giving parents the practical tools to help their children build a healthier relationship with technology from an early age.

"Every child deserves a childhood - real experiences, real friendships, real opportunities. We are determined to make that a reality, both inside and outside the classroom."