Protecting Your Child on Instagram: A Complete Guide

Logan Reed
Jun 25
3 min read

Updated: Oct 19

With over 400 million users, Instagram is one of the most popular platforms in the world—and yes, that includes your kids. Teens use it to share snapshots of their lives, follow influencers, chat with friends, and express themselves. However, this popularity comes with risks. From strangers sliding into DMs to inappropriate content that lurks just a scroll away, Instagram is not without its challenges for families.

The good news? You can take action to protect your child while still allowing them to enjoy the creative side of social media.

Start with Privacy Settings

The very first step when your child signs up is to set their account to private. Why? Because a private profile ensures that only approved followers can see your child’s posts.

Here’s how:

Open the Instagram app.
Tap your child’s profile picture (bottom right).
Tap the three-line menu (top right) and then tap Settings.
Navigate to Privacy → Account Privacy.
Toggle on Private Account.

Done! That one setting can prevent strangers from randomly following and messaging your child.

Block, Report, and Filter

Unfortunately, not everyone on Instagram has good intentions. If your child encounters harassment, bullying, or inappropriate content, teach them how to use the block and report features.

Tap the three dots on a user’s profile or comment.
Choose Block or Report.
Confirm your choice.

You can also turn off comments for specific posts or filter them across the board using Comment Controls in Settings. Instagram even lets you bulk-delete or restrict comments—perfect for stopping a flood of negativity before it spreads.

Navigating Direct Messages (DMs)

Direct Messages (DMs) are often where inappropriate behavior hides. With Instagram’s messaging features, strangers can contact your child if the settings aren’t configured correctly.

To limit who can message them:

Head to Settings → Privacy → Messages.
Choose who can send messages, add to group chats, and who gets sorted into the requests folder.

While it’s not foolproof, it’s a solid first step.

Messenger Rooms & Disappearing Media

Instagram now offers Messenger Rooms, where up to 50 people can video chat even without an account. You can lock the room or remove participants, but it’s crucial that your child knows not to share links with strangers.

In addition, there are disappearing messages. Your child can send photos or videos that vanish after being seen. However, “gone” doesn't mean forgotten; screenshots can still be taken. Have an open conversation with your child about the myth of “disappearing” content.

The Most Important Tool? You!

No setting or app can replace you. Kids need guidance more than ever in a world that moves faster than we can scroll. Sit down with them. Ask questions. Set boundaries. Keep the conversation going.

Yes, Instagram can be fun, creative, and full of good things. But it can also be overwhelming and unsafe without the right tools in place.

Being Proactive in Your Child's Online Journey

To ensure a safe online experience, you need to be proactive. Talk about the risks and possible scenarios. Discuss the importance of maintaining privacy. Encourage them to think critically about the content they share and consume.

Educational Resources for Parents

There are numerous resources available that can help you understand Instagram better. Websites and forums provide tips on monitoring social media use and understanding privacy settings. Learning about these tools can empower you to guide your child effectively.

Stay Updated on Instagram's Features

Instagram frequently updates its features and privacy guidelines. Staying informed about these changes can help you keep your child safe. Subscribe to updates on Instagram's official blog or follow tech news channels that cover social media safety.