Facebook For Kids – What Do You Think?

Do your children use Facebook?

At the moment children have to be at least 13 before they can join Facebook but as we all know, many kids younger than that are already using it.  It’s easy to invent a new birthday, after all.

According to various news sources, Facebook is looking at changing their age policy.  A spokesperson said "Many recent reports have highlighted just how difficult it is to enforce age restrictions on the Internet, especially when parents want their children to access online content and services…”

A recent survey found that 7.5 million users of Facebook are under the age of 13.

The new system would allow children under 13 to create an account under parental supervision.  As parents, you would be able to see the activity on their page and manage friend requests and third-party applications.

I think the main worries for parents are online bullying and the potential exposure to pornography and predators.  But if our children already have access to Facebook (with or without your consent) how will it be different when the age requirement alters?  At least the new system will mean that children don’t have to lie about their ages and parents will have some control over what they can and can’t do on Facebook.

What do you think?  Do your children use Facebook?  Would you let your 8 year old create an account?

Leave us a comment and share your opinion.