Meta has clear guidelines for children to create and manage their accounts. The rules aim to ensure a safe and age-appropriate experience on platforms like Meta Quest and Meta Horizon. Children aged 13 or older can manage their own accounts, while those aged 10–12 require parental or guardian supervision. Specific features and access depend on the age group and regional regulations.
What Are The Age Requirements For Meta Accounts?
Ages 13 and Older
Once children turn 13, they can independently manage their Meta accounts. However, they still have access to privacy tools designed for teens, such as those found in the Teen Privacy Center. These tools help them understand and control their account settings while maintaining safe online habits.
Ages 10–12
For children in this age range, parental involvement is mandatory. A parent or guardian must create and manage the account using Meta’s Family Center. This ensures children can enjoy features tailored to their age group under close supervision.
Under Age 10
Meta accounts are not available for children younger than 10. Parents seeking access for younger children will need to wait until they meet the minimum age requirement.
Creating A Meta Account For Your Child
Parents can set up and manage Meta accounts for children aged 10–12 using the Family Center. The setup process requires the parent to first have their own Meta account and Meta Horizon profile.
Create A Meta Account Using Your Desktop
1. Log into your Meta account on a desktop browser and navigate to the Family Center.
2. Click on “Add family member” and select “Create an account for a child.”
3. Complete the on-screen steps, including entering your child’s details and verifying their age.
4. Review the information and finalize the account creation.
Create A Meta Account Using A Mobile Browser
1. Open the Family Center in your mobile browser and log into your Meta account.
2. Tap “Add family member” and choose “Create an account for a child.”
3. Complete the on-screen steps to enter your child’s details and verify their age.
4. Confirm the information to finish creating the account.
Create A Meta Account Using The Meta Horizon App
1. Open the Meta Horizon app on your mobile device.
2. Tap your avatar at the bottom of the screen, then tap the menu icon.
3. Go to Privacy and Security > Supervision > Get Started.
4. Follow the instructions to create your child’s account.
How To Manage A Meta Account For Your Child
Once an account is created, parents gain full control over settings and features. This includes managing privacy settings, supervising activity, and approving app access.
Parental Controls
1. Privacy and Security: Parents can set account visibility, control who can interact with their child, and approve follow requests.
2. Supervision Settings: Access controls for apps, social features, and screen time limits.
3. Purchase Management: Parents can make purchases for the child or manage existing balances.
Using The Desktop Or Mobile Browser
1. Log into the Family Center.
2. Select your child’s account under “Family members.”
3. Adjust Supervision settings for app access and social features, Privacy settings for profile visibility, and Account settings for password or account management.
Using The Meta Horizon App
1. Open the app and go to the menu by tapping your avatar.
2. Navigate to Privacy and Security > Supervision.
3. Make necessary adjustments to your child’s account.
Social Features And Content Limitations
Meta enforces strict controls on social interactions for children’s accounts. Children aged 10–12 have limited access to social features. Parents must approve contacts, and all communication and interactions remain monitored. Apps that exceed the child’s age rating will automatically be restricted.
Transitioning To An Independent Account At Age 13
When a child turns 13, they transition to managing their own account. During this process:
· Their account remains private by default.
· Parental supervision automatically continues unless either party disables it.
· Teen-oriented privacy settings remain available.
How To Transfer An Existing Meta Account To A Child Using Desktop
Parents with an existing Meta account can transfer it to a child aged 10–12, provided the account hasn’t been used for certain activities like Horizon Worlds creation.
1. Follow the notification link if eligible.
2. Provide your child’s details, including name, birthdate, and email address.
3. Complete the verification process using a payment method.
4. Finalize the transfer by approving age-appropriate features and apps.
Key Changes During Transfer
· The account’s profile becomes private and visibility is restricted to approved contacts.
· Apps rated above the child’s age group become inaccessible.
· Interactions are limited to contacts approved by parents.
· Some account data, such as chat history or app information, may be reset or deleted.
Tips For Keeping Kids Safe On Meta
Parents can ensure a safe environment for their children by following these guidelines:
· Set daily time limits to manage screen time to prevent overuse.
· Remind children to take breaks to avoid discomfort.
· Watch for symptoms like blurry vision or headaches and address them promptly.
· Ensure the headset fits correctly for maximum comfort and safety.
Recommended Meta Quest Accessories For Kids
1. MaeckerVR Meta Quest 3 Battery Head Strap
2. MaeckerVR Meta Quets 3/3S Direct-Charge Controller Grips
3. MaeckerVR Meta Quets Prescription Lenses
Conclusion
Meta accounts for children offer a secure way for younger users to explore digital spaces under parental supervision. With tools like Family Center, parents can ensure their child’s online experiences are safe, age-appropriate, and well-managed. As children grow, Meta provides a structured transition to independence, equipping them with tools for responsible online behavior.