Snapchat continues to be one of the most popular apps among both Gen Z and even Gen Alpha users, due to its steady release of new features that keep young users coming back for more. But for parents, it may sometimes be hard to understand exactly what kids are doing on this application. Instead of opting to ban Snapchat, many parents are taking the “know thy enemy” approach. The more you know about Snapchat, the better prepared you are in helping to guide and protect your kids.

Think of this as your cheat sheet to understand what your kids are doing on Snapchat. Gone are the days of Snapchat being a simple quick photo messenger; it’s changed a lot. We’ll give a tour of the major features here, but for understanding the landscape, you’ll want to check out the other posts on our blog that go over some potential dangers kids may come across.

How to Use Snapchat’s Main Features

The moment users launch Snapchat, they get directed to the main feature of the application: the camera screen. There, users have the option to take a photo or video and instantly send it out to friends. Kids also like playing with various filters, adding animations, stickers, and special effects. Once they click on the photo icon at the bottom right, they will access Memories where all saved photos and videos are kept.

Here’s a Crash Course on How Snapchat Works:

  • Swipe Right: A list of friends and group chats will pop up. Tap on a friend’s name to open up a text chat, or double tap to start snapping off a quick photo or video.
  • Swipe Again to the Right: Now you’ll end up on the Snap Map. Kids can share their location, see where their friends are, and post public stories based on where they are.
  • Left Swipe from Camera: This opens the page for Stories where users can upload photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours. The Stories can be shared publicly by being viewed by all friends or privately viewed by a select group of friends.
  • Scroll Down on Stories: You will end up on the Discover Page - a feed of public content from celebrities, brands, and media outlets.
  • One More Swipe Left: The Spotlight page opens, and short videos from users worldwide start playing just like the “For You” page on TikTok or Instagram Reels.

How It Works: What Parents Need to Know: Decoding Snapchat’s Icons and Terms

Snapchat Icons

As you scroll down the friend list of your child, at the bottom of each name, you might notice tiny icons. Here is what they are for:

  • Sideways Triangle: Sent messages (filled in if delivered, hollow if opened).
  • Square: Messages received - incoming (filled if delivered, hollow if opened).

Snapchat Streaks

One of the features that gets kids hooked is the Snapstreak. This happens when two friends have sent messages to each other every day. This, in turn, leads to a count of the streak next to every name. The kids pride themselves on these running streaks, with some extending into the hundreds! Usually, the streaks dictate who will land in their Best Friends list.

Understanding Snapchat Friend Emojis

Snapchat sets emojis for you representing your relations with friends. These can be personalized in the settings, but here are the most common ones:

  • Super BFF 💛: You’re each other’s #1 Best Friend for two months straight.
  • BFF 💖: Two weeks of being each other’s #1 Best Friend.
  • Besties 😊: You both are each other’s #1 Best Friends.
  • BFs 😎: You snap a lot with them, but they aren’t your best friends.
  • Mutual Besties 😬: You have the same #1 Best Friend.
  • Mutual BFs 😊: You have mutual friends on each other’s Best Friends lists.

How Snapchat Stories Work

A Story, within Snapchat, is a photo or video that remains up for 24 hours. Similar to Instagram, users can create public stories - for users above 18 years, friend-only stories, or private stories appearing only to selected people. While public stories offer young creators a chance at building an audience, parents may become concerned about their kids’ overexposure.

Snapchat’s AI: A Caution for Parents

In the chat area, an AI chatbot with the kids has been available all this time; it is similar to ChatGPT. It does, however, make use of reported questionable responses from time to time. There is also an AI-driven component in the Memories: Dreams. Kids can upload selfies, and then the AI creates themed images. The function is largely for fun, but parents ought to know that some filters may create content that is going to feel more mature.

Features in Memories: Beware of “My Eyes Only”

My Eyes Only in Memories allows users to save private photos and videos that can be locked with a passcode. The concern is now that kids can hide content even if someone else has access to the device.

Many of Snapchat’s seemingly harmless features can have surprising implications. So, make it a point to ask your kids regularly about what they are up to on social media. Keep the conversation open and non-judgmental, and learn about the features they are using. Being informed is one of the best ways you can help your child navigate Snapchat’s ever-expanding digital world safely.