Messenger Kids will generate a private code kids can share with their friends if they want to connect with each other in the app, but parents must approve these contacts before they can be added to the contact list. To use Messenger Kids, parents must connect the app to their personal Facebook account (kids do not need a Facebook account to use the app, as users must be at least 13 years old).

She also recommends making sure the apps your kids use are appropriate, and that you're educated in data tracking, who your kids interact with, and in-app marketing tactics 'to avoid unwanted purchases made by cyber-savvy kids.' 'Not all apps require a minimum age, so parents should look into each app their kids are using,' Jordan says. Titania Jordan, Chief Parenting Officer at Bark, an award-winning monitoring service that helps parents keep kids safe online, tells Romper that although messaging apps can be fun for kids, parents should be paying attention, too. If you decide to let your kids use the app, experts recommend paying close attention to who your child interacts with and what they talk about. Kids can also connect with the friends that they're used to seeing at school every day.

With Messenger Kids, kids can video chat and send messages, emojis, and stickers to stay in touch. One app that can help keep kids in touch with loved ones is Messenger Kids on Facebook, but, like all technology, there are pros and cons each parent will need to weigh to decide if the app is appropriate for their kids. Keeping kids connected with friends and family over long distances can be tough.

Messenger k8ds