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Unfortunately, there are a ton of “adult” servers on Discord that contain graphic and sexual content - and even potential predators. But it’s also popular whether you’re playing Call of Duty or just hanging out after school. It’s a huge place for kids to hang out and talk about gaming. It features chatrooms, direct messaging, voice chat, and video calls. Discordĭiscord is a popular gaming messaging platform that’s very similar to Slack. The GPS-powered Snap Map enables friends (and potentially even strangers) to know your child’s exact location.

Even more troubling is Snapchat’s expansion into location sharing. Drug dealers have begun using the app to contact kids to make sales, which is extremely dangerous. This world-famous disappearing-message app is likely well known to parents, but there’s more to it than just inappropriate photos. This makes it one of the least safe messaging apps for kids. And when it comes to parental controls, Kik basically provides almost zero support for parents trying to protect their children. And unlike those other popular apps, Kik’s main draw is the thousands of public chat rooms filled with strangers - many of whom are adults. But it relies a lot more on anonymity in its interactions. On the surface, Kik may seem like yet another chat app similar to WhatsApp, GroupMe, or Facebook Messenger. It goes without saying that this is incredibly dangerous for kids, especially considering that messages can be sent in secret mode or can be programmed to “self-destruct.” Kik

Perhaps the most dangerous feature, however, is that you can find nearby users and message them.

Text messaging apps for kids tv#

You can also use Telegram to share and store large files like TV shows or documents. Telegram is similar in functionality to WhatsApp, but goes a step further - it adds the group chat functionality of apps like Discord. If there were a “Bark’s Most Wanted List” when it comes to dangerous apps, these platforms are definitely repeat offenders. There is the ability to send disappearing messages, but this feature can be turned off. Users can create groups and share pictures, audio, and video messages as long as they’re connected to the internet. The app is frequently used to keep in touch with family and friends who live abroad.

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WhatsApp is a free instant messaging service that lets people with different mobile devices text, call, and video chat with each other. One thing to keep in mind: GroupMe does have its own internal browser that kids may be able to find. it works across platforms: All you need is a device (iPhone, Android, computer, or tablet) and Wi-Fi or cellular data to get connected. One of the cool things about GroupMe is that it’s a great equalizer. Users can sign up with their phone numbers or email addresses, and are then able to send private or group messages to other users. GroupMeįor group chatting, GroupMe is a great option. Keep in mind that this feature can be turned off, however.

Text messaging apps for kids archive#

In addition, Google can archive Chats, so you can go back at any time and read the transcript of messages. Google Chat (formerly called Hangouts) is an easy way to message back and forth, and there’s a dedicated app for it. Gmail tends to top the list of best free email providers, and it also comes with all of the accompanying Google Workplace features like Chat, Drive, and more. Google ChatĪs your kid dips their toes into the internet, one of the first things they’ll usually get is an email account. And because the app is tied to your personal Facebook profile, you can easily add friends and family members for your child to chat with.

Text messaging apps for kids download#

Parents can also download their child’s conversations at any time. The hallmark of Messenger Kids is visibility on all sides so that there are no surprises. The best messaging app for kids who are younger is one that you have complete oversight of, which is why Messenger Kids tops our list.

The Best Messaging Apps for Kids Messenger Kids The criteria for the best apps include ease of use, cost, and the ability of Bark to monitor them for dangers. So, what’s a parent to do? Here’s a breakdown of the best - and worst - messaging apps for kids.

Snapchat has been the go-to app for texting and group chats for a while, and it’s certainly not very safe. There are so many different apps and social media platforms to choose from, which is why we’ve got your back.įor teens in particular, the popular way to chat seems to change with the season. Whether your child is just starting out with their first phone or is already a texting pro, safety is still paramount. It is a truth universally acknowledged that today’s families will eventually be in need of a safe messaging app for kids.