A new study published in Nature Human Behaviour suggests that children who open social media accounts aged 11–12 perform worse in maths and reading tests than those who delay joining until at least age 14.

Researchers analysed data from more than 5,000 young people and found the difference in attainment at age 16 was equivalent to around six months of learning. The study accounted for factors including prior academic performance, family background and parental education.

The findings suggest that frequent checking of social media may reduce concentration and engagement with learning, although the researchers stress the study does not prove that social media directly causes lower attainment.

The research comes as the UK considers introducing a social media ban for under-16s, adding to growing evidence about the impact of early social media use on children’s development and educational outcomes.

Researchers say the findings highlight the importance of helping young people develop healthier digital habits alongside wider efforts to make social media platforms safer for children.