Read a book? Join a club? Stare at a wall? Social media alternatives for under-16s

The sky’s the limit? One expert said the challenge is not to replace social media itself but to replace the things it provides. Photograph: Anna Barclay/Getty Images View image in fullscreen The sky’s the limit? One expert said the challenge is not to replace social media itself but to replace the things it provides. Photograph: Anna Barclay/Getty Images Read a book? Join a club? Stare at a wall? Social media alternatives for under-16s Amid UK government proposals for a ban, experts discuss what other activities might really serve children well When a Lancashire schoolgirl was asked what she would do if the proposed social media ban for under-16s came into effect, her answer hit a national nerve: “Stare at a wall,” she deadpanned. The clip went viral, not least because it distilled a question many parents have been asking themselves about the consequences of the government’s proposed social media ban . The answer, said Arran Wilson, from The Wildlife Trusts is not simply go outside, read a book or join a club. “It’s not as simple as that,” said Wilson. “We need to think about the world we’ve been raising them in.” But nor, however, should parents institute a hunt for the perfect substitute for TikTok or Instagram. “Kids don’t go on social media because they love social media per se,” said children’s author Rob Biddulph. “They go there looking for connection and for belonging – and for entertainment and inspiration.” The challenge, he said, is not to replace social media itself; it is to replace the things it provides. Find your people View image in fullscreen Youth Music-supported projects include everything from DJing, podcasting and gaming to organising gigs. Photograph: Karen Robinson/The Observer One reason social media is so hard to replace is that many teenagers use it to keep up with friends and find others who share their interests. At the Scouts, Simon Carter said one of their biggest attractions is it brings young people into contact with others outside their friendship circles. Film clubs, youth theatres and music projects offer similar opportunities: BFI film clubs bring young people together to make films in teams. Youth Music-supported projects include everything from DJing, podcasting and gaming to organising gigs. Libraries and bookshops can play a similar role: many now host gaming sessions, manga clubs, creative workshops, reading groups and book clubs. Youth organisations are not the only route to connection. Wilson recommends environmental activism for older children. Sally Kettle, deputy chief guide at Girlguiding, recommends volunteering at community events, helping local charities or mentoring younger children. “Purpose and connection are two of the things many young people are actually seeking when they go online,” he said. Museums, galleries and dance organisations are another option. The free National Saturday Club runs weekly sessions for 13- to 16-year-olds at museums, galleries, universities and cultural venues across