This archive report was first published on 10 June 2020.
On May 20, 2020, Facebook rolled out Messenger Kids, a video chat and messaging app that helps children connect with friends and family in a fun, parent-controlled space. The app is available to download from the Apple App and Google Play Stores.
Messenger Kids has been designed for children between the ages of 6 to 12 years, with the app including two new features aimed at helping kids connect with their friends and family. The app is made for kids but controlled by parents, with features such as one-on-one or group video chat, and a home screen that shows kids who they are connected to and when those contacts are online.
Facebook consulted with child safety advocates and educators across Africa to ensure that Messenger Kids provides a service that balances parental control with features that help kids learn how to connect responsibly online. The company has also worked closely with Youth Advisors, made up of experts in online safety, child development, and media.
Messenger Kids packs playful masks, emojis, and sound effects to bring conversations to life. Kids can send photos, videos, or text messages to their parent-approved friends and adult relatives, who will receive the messages via their regular Messenger app. The app also comes with a library of kid-appropriate and specially chosen GIFs, frames, stickers, masks, and drawing tools.
Commenting on the launch, Kojo Boakye, Facebook Public Policy Director, Africa said: “We know that parents are turning to technology more than ever to help their kids connect with friends and family online. With privacy, security, and parental control at the heart of the app, Messenger Kids provides a safe, fun space, controlled by parents to do exactly that.”
Through the Parent Dashboard, parents can control and monitor their child’s activity, enabling them to monitor recent contacts, chat history, and reported and blocked contacts. They can also see a log of images and videos in chats, enable Supervised Friending, Remote Device Logout, and download their child’s information.
