Meta and Google gave millions to children's media brands. They want to teach kids about using technology responsibly. This includes organizations like Sesame Street and the Girl Scouts. The goal is to appear concerned about screen time. This effort comes while both companies face serious criticism. They are also dealing with lawsuits.
These tech giants are funding lessons for hundreds of thousands of children and parents. The lessons use familiar characters and songs. Alphabet’s Google and Meta’s money supports these programs. Critics say this helps the companies look good. They believe it distracts from how the companies’ own apps make it hard for kids to log off. This is especially true for children under 12. Paediatricians believe this age is too young for phones. The partnerships also make families question trusted advice sources. This is happening as tech companies fight many lawsuits. These lawsuits accuse them of designing addictive products. They claim these products harm young people's mental health. The first trial ended recently. A judgment of $6 million was awarded against the companies.
Big Tech companies make billions from advertising. This money comes from businesses selling things to children. Critics argue this creates a conflict of interest. They say the companies cannot give neutral advice about screen use. Emily Boddy, a leader of U.S. Smartphone Free Childhood, states this clearly. She says their entire business model depends on kids staying on devices. This reliance makes fairness in guidance impossible. Corporations have a history of donating to trusted groups. They do this to improve their public image. Nora Kenworthy, a public health researcher, calls this a reputation management strategy. This is a common tactic across industries like soda and tobacco. In 2026, Meta shares saw a 6% drop. Alphabet shares, however, rose by 27%.
Reuters found thousands of company documents. These were made public through lawsuits. They also reviewed company-sponsored videos. The documents show Meta started partnering with outside groups years ago. This began as criticism of their apps grew. A 2018 draft document shows researchers considering how to respond to accusations. They were accused of designing addictive products. These products could harm user well-being. Researchers suggested forming alliances. This would let a third party confirm their approach. Meta told Reuters they did not use this idea. However, they did build relationships with many brands.
Google sponsored Sesame Street, Highlights magazine, and the Girl Scouts. Meta also sponsored the Girl Scouts. Some materials from Meta and Google offer digital safety tips. They remind kids about strong passwords and avoiding scams. The companies would not share payment details. Google pledged $20 million in 2024. This money supports groups promoting digital well-being. Highlights Magazine and Sesame Workshop were among them. A Google spokesperson stated their priority is young users' well-being. They claimed to build leading safeguards. They said suggestions otherwise are false. Sesame Workshop stated Google had no control over their content. They also said Google executives offered advice before content creation.
The Girl Scouts' digital safety curriculum has a component. Meta's Instagram sponsored this part. Girls must complete age-specific lessons. This earns them a “digital leadership” badge. One lesson for middle schoolers asks girls to track their screen time. They are then challenged to create digital content. Google also started sponsoring a Girl Scouts patch. This is called the “Be Internet Awesome Fun Patch.” This suggests a pattern of influence. The companies' financial support offers a way to shape narratives. It allows them to present themselves as responsible actors. This is happening at a critical time for their industry. They need to rebuild public trust.