Foothills teen thriving without social media ahead of proposed age-limit law
Sixteen-year-old Sophia Abild of Aldersyde has never used social media and credits her parents' rule with protecting her from influence and isolation during her formative years.
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While the federal government moves to restrict social media access for those under 16, one Foothills teenager is already living out that reality—and doesn't regret it.
Sophia Abild of Aldersyde, 16, has spent her entire life without social media. Her parents, Christian and Sharalynn Abild, made the rule for their five children: no social media until adulthood. Despite growing up during an era when apps like Instagram became ubiquitous, Sophia has come to see the restriction as protective rather than punitive.
"We only see the good sides of people on social media, so I feel like that is really something I'm grateful not to have, almost like a burden I don't have," she said. "I don't follow anybody, so I don't take time to try to become more like them or be influenced by them."
Sophia was not always accepting of the rule. She admits there was a time she begged her parents for Instagram, particularly when she felt left out by peers. But she's come to understand the timing of their refusal. "The times that I wanted it the most, it would have been the most detrimental for me. So, I think really trusting that my parents have the best in mind for me has been really helpful," she explained.
She notes that her desire for social media wasn't really about the apps themselves. "It was more of a want to be included and feel part of a group, like a community, than it really was to just have an app on my phone." She learned that direct communication—messages and phone calls—can better demonstrate genuine intent from people who want to stay connected.
Federal Culture Minister Marc Miller introduced Bill C-34, the Safe Social Media Act, last month, which would restrict accounts for those under 16. According to an Angus Reid Institute survey, 75 percent of Canadians support the legislation. Sophia believes it's reasonable. "I do think that's a really good age limit, and then I do believe it should be the parents' decision after that," she said, noting that maturity varies by individual. "I know some 16-year-olds might not be as mature as others."
The facts
How old is Sophia Abild and where is she from?
Sophia Abild is 16 years old and lives in Aldersyde in the Foothills.
What rule did Sophia's parents set for their children?
Sophia's parents, Christian and Sharalynn Abild, made a rule for their five children that no one could use social media until adulthood.
What federal legislation is being proposed to restrict social media?
Federal Culture Minister Marc Miller introduced Bill C-34, the Safe Social Media Act, which would restrict social media accounts for those under 16.
What percentage of Canadians support the proposed social media age-limit law?
According to an Angus Reid Institute survey, 75 percent of Canadians support Bill C-34.
