Should My Kid Get Snapchat? Safety Concerns & Reasons to Consider

In the age of technology, parents have a tough job keeping an eye on their kids’ online activities. The internet is a fantastic tool for learning and fun, but it can also be risky if kids use it without proper guidance. Issues like cyberbullying, seeing inappropriate content, and encountering online predators are just some of the dangers kids might face.

According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, their tipline received 36.2 million reports of suspected child sexual exploitation online. This highlights how crucial it is for parents to teach their children about internet safety and to keep track of what they’re doing online. Even apps that seem safe can be dangerous if not used correctly, and Snapchat is one such app that parents need to think carefully about.

What is Snapchat?

Snapchat is a fun app where you can send photos, videos, and messages called “snaps” that disappear after being viewed. It has cool features like filters, lenses, and effects to make your pictures and videos more fun. You can also post stories that last for 24 hours and use Snap Map to see where your friends are.

Known Dangers of Snapchat for Kids

While Snapchat is entertaining, it also comes with some risks, especially for younger users:

1. False Sense of Security: Kids might think snaps are safe because they disappear. But people can take screenshots or use another device to save the snap, making it permanent.
2. Screenshot Risk: Even though Snapchat alerts users when someone takes a screenshot, there’s no way to stop someone from using another phone to take a picture of the screen. This means private snaps can be saved and shared without permission.
3. Inappropriate Content: The Discover section and user-shared content can show kids mature or inappropriate material they shouldn’t see.
4. Cyberbullying: Because snaps disappear, bullies can send hurtful messages without worrying about leaving evidence. This can lead to secret harassment.
5. Privacy Risks: Snap Map can reveal a user’s location, which can be dangerous if not set up properly. Strangers could see where your child is if privacy settings aren’t right.
6. Addictive Features: Things like Snapstreaks encourage kids to use the app a lot, which can lead to too much screen time and distractions from important activities like homework.
7. Hard to Monitor: Since snaps disappear, it’s difficult for parents to keep an eye on what their kids are sending and receiving, allowing inappropriate content to go unnoticed.

Knowing these risks can help parents decide if Snapchat is right for their kids and how to keep them safe if they do use the app.

Pros of Snapchat for Kids

While there are some risks, Snapchat also has some great benefits for kids. Here are a few pros:

1. Creativity and Fun: Snapchat’s filters and effects let kids get creative with their photos and videos. They can turn themselves into funny characters, add cool backgrounds, and use special effects to make their snaps more interesting. This is a fun way for kids to express themselves.
2. Staying Connected: Snapchat makes it easy for kids to stay in touch with friends. They can quickly send snaps and chat with each other, keeping their friendships strong even when they can’t meet up in person.
3. Less Pressure: Because snaps disappear, kids don’t feel as much pressure to look perfect all the time. Unlike other social media where posts stay up forever, Snapchat’s temporary messages help reduce this stress.
4. Interactive Features: Snapchat has games and quizzes that kids can play with their friends. These features add extra fun and help kids bond with their peers.
5. Interesting Content: The Discover section offers content based on what kids like. They can find educational and entertaining material about science, history, or their favorite hobbies.
6. Learning Opportunities: Snapchat sometimes partners with educational groups to share fun and informative stories from places like National Geographic or NASA. This can help kids learn new things in an engaging way.
7. Privacy Controls: Snapchat allows users to adjust privacy settings so only friends can see their snaps and stories. Parents can help their kids set these controls to keep them safe from strangers.

Setting Rules for Safe Snapchat Usage

If you decide to let your kids use Snapchat, it’s important to set some clear rules to keep them safe. Here are some guidelines:

1. Age Requirement: Make sure your child is at least 13 years old before using Snapchat.
2. Parental Controls: Use Snapchat’s Family Center feature to monitor who your child is talking to on the app.
3. Privacy Settings: Set their account to “My Friends” for both “Contact Me” and “View My Story.” This way, only people they know can interact with them.
4. Ghost Mode: Turn on Ghost Mode on Snap Map to hide your child’s location from others.
5. Discuss Online Risks: Talk to your child about not sharing personal information and remind them that snaps can be saved and shared by others.
6. Open Communication: Encourage your child to come to you if they experience any problems or uncomfortable situations online.
7. Monitor Usage: Check your child’s Snapchat activity regularly to make sure they’re following the rules and staying safe.
8. Time Limits: Limit how much time your child spends on Snapchat each day to ensure it doesn’t interfere with their schoolwork and physical activity.
9. Reporting and Blocking: Teach your child how to report inappropriate content and block users who make them feel uneasy.
10. Review Content Together: Look through the Discover section and other content areas with your child to ensure they’re viewing appropriate material.

By setting these rules and having open conversations, you can help your child use Snapchat safely and responsibly. With the right guidance, your child can enjoy the fun aspects of Snapchat while avoiding potential dangers.