How to Set Up Facebook Messenger for Kids: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents
The need to stay connected is also important for kids. The reason is simple: we are in a digital age, and they own it! Messenger Kids is designed for children under 13. It offers a safe, parent-controlled platform for video calls, chats, and sharing fun content with approved friends and family.
If you’re wondering how to set it up, you’re in the right place. This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get your child started on Messenger Kids safely and easily.
✅ What is Messenger Kids?
Messenger Kids is a messaging app developed by Meta (Facebook’s parent company) for children under 13 who are too young to have a regular Facebook account. It includes:
- Parental control dashboard
- No ads or in-app purchases
- Fun features like filters, stickers, and games
- End-to-end encrypted chats
- Contact approval by parents
🛠️ What You Need Before You Begin
Before setting up Messenger Kids, make sure you have
- A Facebook account (for parental control)
- A smartphone or tablet (Android or iOS)
- Internet access
- Your child’s first name and a profile photo (optional)
👣 Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up Messenger Kids
Step 1: Download the App
- Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store
- Search for Messenger Kids
- Tap Download or Install
Step 2: Launch the App
- Open Messenger Kids after it installs
- Tap “Next” to begin the setup
Step 3: Authenticate with Your Facebook Account
- Log in with your personal Facebook account
(Note: This does NOT create a Facebook account for your child.)
Step 4: Create Your Child’s Profile
- Enter your child’s first and last name
- Add a profile photo (optional but helpful for friends/family)
- Tap “Create Account.”
Step 5: Set Parental Controls
- From your Facebook app:
- Tap Menu > Messenger Kids
- Access the Parent Dashboard
- Here you can:
- Approve or remove contacts
- Set sleep mode (limit screen time)
- View recent chats and contacts
- Report or block users if needed
Step 6: Add Trusted Contacts
- You control who your child can connect with
- You can:
- Send invites to family/friends
- Accept requests from other parents
🔒 Privacy and Safety Tips
- Sleep Mode: Set quiet times when your child can’t use the app (e.g., homework or bedtime)
- Chat Monitoring: Check conversation history in the dashboard
- No Ads: Messenger Kids has no ads or paid features
- Report & Block: Teach your child how to report or block anyone who makes them uncomfortable
👨👩👧👦 Why Parents Love Messenger Kids
- Full control over who your child talks to
- Safe, monitored environment for kids to socialize
- Fun features (stickers, filters, drawing tools) that kids love
- Helps kids stay in touch with family and friends—especially long-distance
Conclusion
Setting up Messenger Kids is quick and easy and gives you peace of mind knowing your child is connecting safely. With built-in parental controls, no ads, and end-to-end encryption, it’s a great way for younger kids to explore the digital world responsibly.
Ready to get started? Grab your phone, follow the steps above, and help your child connect with the people who matter most—safely and securely.
