YouTube CEO Joins Tech Bosses in Strict Social Media Limits for Kids

YouTube CEO Neal Mohan limits his children’s social media use. He revealed this in a recent TIME magazine interview. The executive was named TIME’s 2025 CEO of the Year.

This stance aligns him with other major tech leaders. Many executives publicly restrict their own kids’ screen time. The issue of online harm to children is now a major global focus.

Controlled Access and Weekend Flexibility in the Mohan Household

Mohan told TIME his children’s platform use is “controlled and restricted.” He specifically limits time on YouTube and other media. He has three children: two sons and one daughter.

According to Mohan, weekdays have stricter rules. Weekends are more relaxed for his family. He admitted that they are “not perfect by any stretch.”

Growing Expert Consensus on Smartphone and Social Media Dangers

A CNBC report cites mental health experts on the harms. Excessive smartphone use damages children and teenagers. This view is becoming mainstream among researchers.

Author and professor Jonathan Haidt advocates strict limits. He suggests no smartphones before age 14. He also recommends no social media access before age 16.

Industry-Wide Concern and a Landmark National Ban

Other tech leaders share this cautious approach. Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki has expressed similar views. Figures like Bill Gates and Mark Cuban have also voiced concerns.

Australia recently took unprecedented action. It formally barred users under 16 from major platforms. It is the first country to enact such a wide-reaching ban.

The public stance of tech CEOs like Neal Mohan highlights a significant paradox. It underscores the urgent, complex debate about social media limits for kids. As regulations catch up, parental guidance remains the first line of defense.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What did the YouTube CEO say about his kids using YouTube?

Neal Mohan said their use is “controlled and restricted.” He limits their time on YouTube and other platforms. Stricter rules apply on weekdays compared to weekends.

Q2: How old does Jonathan Haidt think kids should be for social media?

The NYU professor suggests age 16 for social media access. He argues smartphones should wait until age 14. He calls a smartphone a device “by which the world can get to your children.”

Q3: Which country banned under-16s from social media?

Australia instituted the ban. It targets major social media platforms. The country is the first to impose such a national restriction.

Q4: What is YouTube Kids?

It is a child-friendly version of YouTube launched in 2015. Mohan says it helps give parents greater control. The platform is designed to be more suitable for young audiences.

Q5: Why are tech CEOs limiting their own kids’ screen time?

They are aware of the potential mental health harms. Research increasingly links excessive use to anxiety and other issues. Their personal rules often reflect broader expert concerns.