Facebook, the world’s largest social networking platform with over 2 billion users, recently launched Messenger Kids, a messaging app aimed at children aged 6-12. Despite being intended for parents to connect with their kids, the app has sparked backlash.
Wired reported that a coalition of 97 child health advocates sent a letter to Mark Zuckerberg urging him to discontinue Messenger Kids. Advocates argue that the app may harm preschool and elementary-aged children by encouraging excessive screen time.
“Raising children in our digital age is challenging,” the letter states. “Please refrain from exacerbating this by exploiting Facebook’s vast reach and influence.” Signed by individuals and 19 nonprofits, including Common Sense Media, Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, and Parents Across America, they express concern over recent studies linking increased depression, poor sleep, and negative body image in children and teens to extensive social media and digital device usage.
“Raising children in our digital age is challenging. Please refrain from exacerbating this by exploiting Facebook’s vast reach and influence.”
The letter asserts Facebook’s concern for personal interests, aiming to expand the audience by attracting children to social media from a young age. While Messenger Kids is marketed as a tool for parental communication with their children, the inclusion of stickers and Augmented Reality (AR) masks deviates from this intention. Josh Golin, executive director of Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, comments, “Using filters and AR to prolong chats will hinder genuine conversations for kids, both short and long term,” highlighting the incongruity.
“Facebook frames increased use and dependence on its tools as a benefit to 7-year-olds and grandparents when it actually benefits Facebook.”
Asked for comment, a Facebook spokesperson said they had received only positive feedback from parents and kids about Messenger Kids. “We’ve heard stories of parents working night shifts reading bedtime stories to their children, and traveling moms getting daily updates from their kids while away,” they added.
Messenger Kids helps families stay connected across distances.” – Facebook spokesperson
The coalition calls for Facebook to remove the app rather than improve it as children under 12 shouldn’t use social media. However, it’s unlikely Facebook would comply. What’s your view? Should Facebook alter or remove Messenger Kids, or should parents implement different controls? Share your thoughts below.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
