When Is It Okay for Kids to Have Their Own Social Media? A Doctor-Mom Dr. Carrissa Losantas Weighs In

Behind the white coat and the impressive title of Lifestyle Medicine Specialist is a mom who knows exactly what it feels like to chase a toddler while juggling responsibilities and wondering if screen time counts as a parenting win or fail.

Dr. Carrissa Losantas, founder of St. Raphael Health Hub, is not just a medical expert. She’s also a mom of two who’s living the everyday realities of parenthood, with all the chaos and beauty that come with it.

“Parenting is never a walk in the park,” she shares. “Even as a doctor, I’ve struggled, and I realized that so many parents end up letting go of their own health while trying to take care of everyone else.”

This realization became her mission. Through her platform, she’s now helping other moms and dads build healthier lifestyles not through guilt or pressure—but through compassion, small changes, and realistic routines that work for busy families.

Turning Everyday Struggles Into Teachable Moments

As both a parent and a wellness advocate, she doesn’t sugarcoat her journey. From dealing with screen time to figuring out how to get kids to eat vegetables, she’s experienced it all firsthand.

“I’ve learned to ride along with the challenges instead of fighting them,” she says. “There are days when screen time feels like a lifesaver, especially when I’m working or not at home. But we try to balance it by keeping screen use minimal when we’re together and encouraging other activities instead.”

When it comes to meals, she’s also learned to let go of the pressure to be perfect.
“So long as they’re fed nutritious meals most of the time, it’s okay. We’re doing our best, and that counts.”

Q&A: When Is It Recommended for a Child to Start Having Their Own Social Media?

Dr. Losantas explains:
“Well, actually, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the recommended age—or the easy answer—as to when a child can have a personal social media account is 13 years old.

However, there’s a lot more to consider regarding this, and parents must be able to answer the question: Is your child ready to have a social media account?

One thing we must consider is that at age 13, our young teenager is still discovering his or her sense of self, while learning how to form bonds with their immediate communities, all while facing peer pressure. And on top of this, as we all know, there are a lot of inhumane social standards on social media that can lead to mental health problems.

I personally suggest that parents gauge the abilities of their children. They have to acknowledge if the child is able to navigate through the different platforms of social media while they maintain their sense of control. Being in control over these tools has benefits—but if these platforms end up controlling the person, it might lead to mental health conditions instead.”

A Doctor Who Leads With Heart

Through her work as a TAPfluencer, Dr. Carrissa has found a community that mirrors her parenting values: imperfect, intentional, and full of heart. One of the things she values most about being part of theAsianparent is being surrounded by fellow moms and dads who get it.

“What I love most is being accepted as you are. This community understands the journey of parenthood, the ups, the downs, and everything in between.”

Her message to fellow parents is simple but powerful: It is possible to raise a healthy family, even when life feels overwhelming. And it starts with being kind to yourself.

“Self-compassion is part and parcel of wellness. There’s no perfect way to take care of your family, but because you know your family best, you have the power to make the right choices for them.”

A Bigger Dream: Changing the Narrative of Family Health

More than building a social media following, her goal is to spark a shift in how families view health. Through her content and advocacy, she’s hoping to create a community of resilient homemakers—parents who know that wellness isn’t about perfection, but about progress and purpose.

Whether it’s inspiring others to eat better, move more, sleep well, or simply rest when they need to—this doctor-mom hybrid is leading the charge in a way that’s both science-backed and soul-deep.

Her advice to other parents?
“There is no perfect way to ensure your family’s health. But you’re not expected to be perfect—you’re expected to care. And that, already, is more than enough.”