Getting Ready For D-Day
- Chelle Robertson
- Dec 9, 2025
- 3 min read
by Chelle Robertson
We all know this change is going to be a big deal for our teens, many of whom have used social media as their primary way of connecting with the world for a large chunk of their lives—often to the point of dependence. Some parents have already expressed anxiety about how to best support their children, knowing there will likely be plenty of pushback once the changes take effect from December 10.
In truth, parents are going to need support too. We always want to guide our children through tough times, yet we are rarely given guidance ourselves. Below are some suggestions to help you prepare, followed by tips to help prepare your teens.
For Parents
1. Present a united, caring approach
If there are two adults or carers in the home, discuss the upcoming changes together—without the children present. Agree on a plan, present a consistent message, and make sure you back each other up when pushback begins. Stay gentle but firm. Support your partner if the teens direct frustration toward them, without making it feel like you’re “ganging up.”
2. Connect with other parents
Talk to friends who are navigating the same transition. Some ideas may not align with your approach—and that’s okay—but you may gain useful strategies or be able to coordinate in-person teen social activities together.
3. Expect misdirected frustration
Your teen may express anger or irritation toward you simply because you are their safe space. Remind yourself of this often. Mentally rehearsing responses can help you stay calm and avoid knee-jerk reactions.
4. Keep the purpose in mind
This change is ultimately about your child’s wellbeing. It may be tempting to slip into a “blame game,” especially when this isn’t a change you chose, but anchoring yourself in the bigger picture will help.
5. Recognise the signs of withdrawal
If you suspect your child has developed a dependency on social media, remember that this may feel like detoxing from an addictive substance. Their brain is adjusting to the loss of regular dopamine hits. They may:
be unusually angry or emotional
blame you for the change
overreact to small issues
feel like “the whole world is against them”
Understanding the biology behind their behaviour can help you respond with calm compassion—while still maintaining firm boundaries and expectations for respectful behaviour.
6. Don’t take it personally
This situation is out of your control. Keeping discussions factual and grounded will prevent emotional exhaustion.
7. Debrief, often
Check in regularly with your partner or trusted friends. Remind each other what an incredible job you’re doing as you navigate unfamiliar territory.
For Teens
1. Talk early and openly
Let your teens know you understand this will be difficult. Make sure they feel heard, seen, and taken seriously.
2. Explain the dopamine response
Help them understand the science behind their feelings. Kids Helpline has a teen-friendly explanation—visit the resource together and discuss what it means.
3. Clarify what will still be available
Help them recognise that some platforms and communication tools will remain accessible, such as: Messenger, WhatsApp, YouTube Kids, Discord, GitHub, LEGO Play, Roblox, Steam and Steam Chat, and Google Classroom.
4. Help them plan real-life social time
Many teens aren’t used to “hanging out” in person the way we did growing up. Support them in organising afternoon catchups or activities—without becoming intrusive.
5. Explore holiday activities
Look for workshops, clubs, or events during school holidays that encourage offline connection with friends.
6. Be mindful of your own modelling
Monitor your own social media habits. If you’re someone who scrolls often, try to do so privately. This is a chance for the whole household to reset habits together.
7. Highlight the positives
Gently draw attention to the good parts of days with less technology—without being overly enthusiastic or dismissive of their feelings.
8. Keep checking in
Their distress is real. A small blow-up may reflect deeper frustrations about losing control over their choices or feeling punished despite doing nothing wrong. Stay open, curious, and supportive.
And above all…
You’ve got this. Parents right across Australia are travelling the same road—taking different vehicles, with different detours, but moving through the same landscape of change. Support one another, acknowledge how tough this is, and go gently.
Helpful Links
Headspace - great support for kids!
Reach Out has loads of resources to support you and your family through the change
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