WhatsApp for Pre-teen: How parent-managed accounts work
According to WhatsApp’s support page, in some regions, app stores operated by Apple or Google may share a child’s age range with WhatsApp based on local legal requirements, instead of the information being entered manually during setup. If users believe the age range shared is incorrect or want more details, they can review their device settings or visit the help centres of Apple or Google.
Parental controls and safety features
The parent-managed system introduces several tools designed to help guardians oversee how younger users interact on WhatsApp. Parents can decide who is allowed to contact the child’s account and which groups they are able to join. They can also review message requests from unknown contacts before interaction happens.
In addition, parents can manage privacy settings directly from the linked account. Access to these controls on the child’s phone is restricted behind the parent PIN, meaning only the parent or guardian can modify them.
Privacy and encryption
How to set up WhatsApp account for pre-teens
Download WhatsApp on your child’s phone
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As a parent, you can download WhatsApp and set up a parent-managed account for your child. -
Download WhatsApp Messenger from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store on your child’s device. -
Choose your language and tap Agree and continue. -
Tap More options and select Create a parent-managed account. -
Register and verify your child’s phone number. -
Enter your child’s birthday and confirm their age. -
Tap Continue to link to a parent’s account.
Link to your child’s account from your phone.
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Scan the QR code displayed on your child’s device with your phone’s camera and tap the link to be taken to WhatsApp. -
Tap Agree and continue. -
Verify you’re an adult. -
Create a 6-digit parent PIN. -
This PIN is required to access and make changes to your child’s privacy settings and should not be shared with your child. -
Confirm your parent PIN and then Next. -
Tap Done and finish account setup on your child’s device.
Finish account setup on your child’s device
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Enter your parent PIN. -
Tap Continue. -
Your child’s managed account is now set up. They’ll be able to enter their name and profile photo.
