An interface is how an online platform looks and works – what you see on your screen and how you interact with it. A well-designed interface can help children and teens staysafe, feel confident, and enjoy their time online.
To prevent excessive use and addictive behaviours, and make it easier to log off, platforms should avoid features like:
- infinite scrolling – when the page has scrolled all the way to the bottom, it automatically refreshes with new content,
- pull to refresh,
- constant notifications,
- video autoplay,
- virtual daily rewards, streaks or points that require children to open the app or game every day.
What platforms need to include:
- Tools that help kids and teens manage their time online, like friendly reminders to take breaks
- Safety settings, reporting and feedback tools that are easy to find, understand and use
- Accessibility for everyone, including children and teenagers with disabilities or additional needs
- Clear warnings when children and teens are interacting with AI features – and no pressure to use them.
Further information and resources
Do you want to learn more about the DSA? Check out this booklet, explaining the measures to protect kids and teens online.
The DSA explained
An interface is how an online platform looks and works – what you see on your screen and how you interact with it. A well-designed interface can help children and teens staysafe, feel confident, and enjoy their time online.
To prevent excessive use and addictive behaviours, and make it easier to log off, platforms should avoid features like:
- infinite scrolling – when the page has scrolled all the way to the bottom, it automatically refreshes with new content,
- pull to refresh,
- constant notifications,
- video autoplay,
- virtual daily rewards, streaks or points that require children to open the app or game every day.
What platforms need to include:
- Tools that help kids and teens manage their time online, like friendly reminders to take breaks
- Safety settings, reporting and feedback tools that are easy to find, understand and use
- Accessibility for everyone, including children and teenagers with disabilities or additional needs
- Clear warnings when children and teens are interacting with AI features – and no pressure to use them.
Further information and resources
Do you want to learn more about the DSA? Check out this booklet, explaining the measures to protect kids and teens online.
The DSA explained
- DSA (Digital Services Act) DSAforYOUth
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