Snapkidz was an interesting experiment by Snapchat, aimed at providing a safe, playful way for kids under the age of 13 to interact with the app. While the main Snapchat app is only for those 13 and older, Snapkidz was designed with young children in mind. But, what exactly was Snapkidz and how did it work? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
Snapkidz Tutorial
Before we get into the steps, let’s clarify what Snapkidz was. Snapkidz allowed kids to take pictures, draw on them, and save them locally on the device. However, it did not have a send function, so kids couldn’t share their creations with others.
Step 1: Download Snapchat
The first thing you need to do is download the Snapchat app. Snapkidz was available within the main Snapchat app.
If you tried to create a Snapchat account and entered a birthdate that showed you were under 13, you were automatically redirected to Snapkidz.
Step 2: Enter Birthdate
When prompted, enter the child’s birthdate. This will determine whether they will be redirected to Snapkidz.
Kids under 13 were not allowed to create a full Snapchat account, so Snapkidz was a way for them to enjoy some of the fun features safely.
Step 3: Enjoy Snapkidz!
Once in Snapkidz, kids could take pictures, add doodles, captions, and more.
Because there was no social sharing feature in Snapkidz, it provided a safe environment for kids to get creative without the risks associated with social media.
After completing these steps, your child would have access to a kid-friendly version of Snapchat. They could take photos, draw, and save their creations on the device. It was a fun way for them to be creative and use the technology that their older siblings or parents were using.
Tips for Snapkidz
Here are some tips to help you maximize the Snapkidz experience for your child:
- Always supervise your child’s use of the app to ensure they’re using it appropriately.
- Use Snapkidz as an opportunity to teach your child about digital creativity and responsible tech use.
- Although Snapkidz didn’t have a sharing feature, remind your child about the importance of privacy and what is appropriate to share online.
- Encourage your child to explore their creativity by using the various drawing tools and filters.
- Remember to check the device storage, as the photos and drawings can quickly fill up space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Snapkidz still available?
No, Snapkidz was discontinued by Snapchat a few years ago. The company decided to focus on other features within the main app.
Why was Snapkidz discontinued?
Snapchat has not provided a specific reason for discontinuing Snapkidz, but it’s likely due to low usage and the company’s decision to streamline their services.
Can kids under 13 use Snapchat now?
No, the age requirement for Snapchat remains 13 and older as per the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).
Are there any alternatives to Snapkidz?
There are many child-friendly apps that offer similar features, such as picture taking and drawing. It’s always recommended to supervise your child’s use of these apps.
Was Snapkidz safe?
While Snapkidz did not allow for communication with others, it was considered a safe environment for children to explore and create.
Summary
- Download Snapchat.
- Enter the birthdate.
- Enjoy Snapkidz!
Conclusion
Snapkidz was a glimpse into a world where tech companies try to accommodate younger users in a safe and controlled environment. Although it was short-lived, it raised important conversations about how children interact with technology and social media apps. As parents and guardians, it is crucial to monitor and guide our children’s digital footprints, ensuring they learn responsible and safe online behaviors. While Snapkidz may no longer be an option, its legacy remains a reminder of the need for kid-friendly digital spaces. If you’re looking for ways to engage your child with technology safely, it’s worth exploring the various other apps designed with children in mind. Remember, every snap, click, and swipe is an opportunity for learning and creativity, but it’s up to us to frame those opportunities positively.