🪪 Snapchat requires users to be 13+, but younger kids often bypass this rule.
👀 Features like disappearing messages and Snap Map can expose kids to risks.
🙂↕️ Parental controls and open conversations are essential for online safety.
Snapchat is a popular social media platform among kids and teens. With its disappearing messages and playful filters, it seems like harmless fun—but is it really safe for kids? Many parents wonder: how old do you have to be to use Snapchat? More importantly, how can parents ensure their child's online safety while using the Snapchat app?
This guide explains what parents need to know about Snapchat, including age limits, parental controls, and ways to keep kids safe online. Stick around until the end to learn how Modak can help kids build financial responsibility while having fun.
This article does not constitute professional advice. It provides an analysis of Snapchat’s potential risks and parental control options based on available information. Our suggestions are for informational purposes only, and the decision of whether the platform is appropriate should be made by parents based on their own considerations.
Snapchat’s official age requirement is 13 years old, in compliance with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). However, many younger kids still sign up, often bypassing age verification by entering a fake birth date.
Snapchat once provided a SnapKidz feature for users under 13, but later removed it. Now, Snapchat does not allow children under 13 to create an account. If they do, the platform actively deletes their accounts upon discovery.
Snapchat’s disappearing messages, location-sharing through Snap Map, and direct messaging features can raise concerns for parents. Here are some risks to be aware of:
That being said, Snapchat does offer parental controls and privacy settings to help parents protect their children.
😆 Modak makes learning financial responsibility fun by turning it into a game.
🍎 It’s safe and parent-approved, with features that let parents monitor spending, set goals, and guide their kids toward smart money habits.
💳 Kids can convert earned MBX into real money and use their Modak Visa® Debit Card for purchases.
Snapchat’s Family Center allows parents to:
If your child has an iPhone, you can track their Snapchat activity using a parental control app or the phone's built-in features:
Beyond setting parental controls, teaching your child how to safely use Snapchat is just as important:
Both apps pose risks, but here’s a comparison:
There is no official child-friendly version of Snapchat, as SnapKidz was discontinued. If your child is under 13, consider alternatives like Messenger Kids or Google Family Link for safer communication.
If your child insists on using Snapchat, here are a few extra precautions you can take:
While Snapchat can be fun, it’s important to balance screen time with activities that teach valuable skills. Modak is a great alternative, offering kids a way to learn about money, responsibility, and earning rewards in a gamified way1.
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If you're looking for a productive and fun way to keep your child engaged, Modak is the perfect solution!
Snapchat is a popular social media app among kids, but it comes with risks. By understanding how old you have to be to have Snapchat, using parental controls, and having open conversations about online safety, parents can help keep their kids secure.
However, balancing social media with educational and rewarding activities is key. Modak provides a safe and fun way for kids to learn about money, earn rewards, and build responsible habits.
Want to introduce your child to a smarter way to manage money? Try Modak today!
