Time to BRAWL! Cool characters, exciting matches, jewels and trophies – that’s the colorful game world of Brawl Stars. We present the popular mobile app.
Brawl Stars is a mobile battle arena game for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, developed by Finnish game provider Supercell. It is based on the “free-to-play” model and is basically free of charge. In the game, you fight either alone or in teams of two or three against friends or other players. A round of the game lasts only a few minutes.
The players control characters, so-called “Brawlers”. Each Brawler has their own abilities and play styles. The aim is to defeat opponents and other teams, collect gems or complete certain tasks. Over the course of the game, new Brawlers can be unlocked, their skills improved and their appearance customized with skins and accessories. These extras can be purchased with the in-game coins earned or obtained through rewards. Real money can be used to buy in-game coins and thus achieve faster progress in the game. The colorful and vibrant graphics and simple controls make the game accessible and entertaining for players of all ages. Brawl Stars also features regular updates, events and an active community that keeps the game fresh and engaging.
Free game apps are interesting for many children and young people as they promise free fun. Playing together as a team and competing against other players is particularly exciting and fun. The rounds are entertaining and you can progress quickly. The look of the game is also impressive: Everything in the game is colorfully designed in cartoon graphics and the brawlers look funny. Winning a round earns you rewards. The game features loot boxes (surprise boxes) with a star symbol – also known as “Starrdrops”. Whoever opens the Starrdrops receives random rewards such as new skins, sprays, accessories, coins, jewels or new brawlers. The surprise effect and the prospect of stronger characters can quickly motivate children and young people to keep playing to get more Starrdrops and become more and more “powerful” for duels.
The short game rounds and regular rewards make the game attractive and tempt you to keep playing. Brawl Stars is played in teams. Players can create and join clubs.
Your child may come into contact with strangers who, in the worst case, are not who they say they are. Following random game rounds, your child can receive friend requests from players. There is a risk of cyberbullying and cybergrooming here.
For the chance to get rare brawlers or new coins, your child may be tempted to spend real money on in-game items and loot boxes. These purchases make it possible to equip their favorite Brawler with better abilities. There is also the option to purchase so-called “Brawl Passes”, which offer significantly more rewards and faster game progress. The game provider earns a lot of money with such mechanisms.
There is a guide for parents on the official website of the provider Supercell. Among other things, it refers to existing in-app purchases in the game and explains how parents can manage and, if necessary, disable them. Supercell states that it does not pass on personal data to third parties for commercial purposes or in any other way. The provider has created a “blacklist” for safe chatting. This allows certain terms to be quickly and automatically removed from chats. Chat messages can be muted and are then no longer displayed.
The best way to start is to discover the game together. Play together with your child to understand your child’s enthusiasm for the game.
Be wary of third-party vendors offering Brawl Stars enhancements such as free jewels. Here, personal information and/or money are often demanded without delivering the promised product.
“Hang on, I need to post on BeReal for a minute!” – Many families are familiar with statements like this.
The BeReal app was the seventh most popular social media app among young Germans in 2023.
Authenticity is a top priority here, which is why the service scores points with its unusual concept: spontaneous snapshots from everyday life instead of staged pictures and videos.
We explain the concept behind it.
BeReal translates as “Be real!”. Users are prompted to take a photo once a day by the app via a push message. The random time varies from day to day and is sent to all users at the same time.
Within two minutes, a photo must be taken with the front and rear cameras at the same time and published. Pictures from the photo gallery cannot be uploaded. The two photos are displayed as picture-in-picture. The photos of friends can then also be viewed. The posted photos are automatically deleted from the feed after 24 hours and are saved under Memories for private viewing only. If uploaded on time, you can share up to five additional snapshots per day.
In addition to the daily prompt, you can record videos in “Behind the Scenes” mode, which show what happens before or after the actual photo. There is also the option to add music to the BeReals. The RealChat function allows friends to chat directly with each other and connect with several friends in up to two RealGroups.
There are no filters or image editing in the app and your follower count is not publicly visible. You can react to other people’s posts with emojis or so-called RealMojis, which are grimaces that you create yourself. Public photos can be seen at any time. Friends can be found and added via synchronization with your own contacts or by searching for user names. Profiles from the public feed can also be added.
New apps are particularly interesting for young users if they offer something out of the ordinary. In times of superficiality and image editing on social networks, BeReal stands out with its concept of spontaneity and authenticity. The tension increases because the push message with the request to take a snapshot can come at any time. A photo must then be taken spontaneously and under time pressure – without preparation or many attempts, without filters or image editing.
Connecting with brands and celebrities via the RealBrands and RealPeople categories and participating in their “real” lives as a RealFan is fun for young people and makes them feel connected to their role models.
Complying with the app’s requests can be challenging, for example because young people actually want to concentrate on their homework or can’t get their smartphone out at school. For some, the pressure exerted by the push message can be unpleasant or lead to impulsive photos being taken and published in private situations. There can also be social pressure to share particularly interesting pictures on the platform without filters and edits.
BeReal collects personal data such as name and telephone number and stores the IP address. If access to the address book is permitted, the app also receives data from people who do not use BeReal. There is also a risk that photos of other people who appear unintentionally in the picture will end up in the public feed. Photos can also be screenshotted and shared by others without being noticed.
According to the terms of use, BeReal is permitted from the age of 13. If an age between 13 and 15 is specified when registering, the app indicates that parental consent is required. This is because, due to the GDPR, use without parental consent is only possible from the age of 16. However, this can be easily circumvented.
The app was sold to the French game developer Voodoo in 2024. Further features could change, advertising has already been integrated. BeReal has community guidelines and prohibits harassment, violence and bullying, for example. Violations can be reported directly in the app.
If your child is interested in the app, you should also take a closer look at BeReal – preferably together. Talk to your child about the potential communication risks associated with using the app and keep in touch about your child’s experience of using it. Agree beforehand which photos may be published there, so that your child can react consciously in the pressure situation.
The app accesses many functions of the smartphone, some of which are unfounded, such as microphone and location. Check the app permissions immediately after registration and consider together with your child which accesses are necessary and useful. It is best to set the account to private in the privacy settings so that only people in the friends list can see the posted pictures. Discuss with your child that they should only add people they actually know as friends. You can find instructions on other BeReal security settings on the website medien-kindersicher.de.
The children’s website kindersache.de is a participatory website for children between the ages of 8 and 13.
It provides lots of information, especially about children’s rights, but also offers opportunities for children to become active on the Internet themselves.
Here children can find age-appropriate information and interactive offers, e.g. they can
The topic of children’s rights is given a lot of space on kindersache.de: It describes in a child-friendly way what children’s rights actually are and what they are. Various game ideas and puzzles on the site provide fun.
In the theme area Genial Digital there are interactive digital learning modules that provide information about the Internet and the first smartphone in a fun way.
In the JUKI animation studio on kindersache.de, there is not only a multitude of videos to discover.
In the animated film study, children can easily create their own animated films, receive tips for their own film production and learn what they need to bear in mind.
In the section Join in section, children can become active themselves: They can write an article or a story, make and upload their own videos or tell a joke.
To do this, they have to register at kindersache.de.
All content on kindersache.de is selected and checked by the editorial team.
Sharing with others is also safe, as comments and contributions are checked before publication.
In this way, children learn about the opportunities for participation on the Internet in a protected space kindersache.de is an Internet service for children from the Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk.
As the website is specially designed for children, it places great emphasis on security and data protection.
Personal data is only collected to the extent necessary and is not passed on to third parties.
The platform is also free of advertising.
As with all services used by children up to the age of 12, you should find out more about kindersache.de and explore the site together with your child. It is important for your child to share their experiences with you. Talking about the content on kindersache.de, such as joining in, promotes your child’s autonomy and knowledge. This article is part of the project “Parents’ tips on children’s participation platforms”, which is part of the funding program “Child-friendly digital offerings and orientation measures” of the Federal Center for Child and Youth Media Protection (BzKJ) and in cooperation with JFF – Institute for Media Education in Research and Practice and the Voluntary Self-Regulation of Multimedia Service Providers (FSM e.V.) is being implemented.
You are sitting with your children having dinner together and talking, when suddenly your cell phone rings. How do you behave? Do you let family time get in the way?
Such situations probably exist in every family. Actually, it was agreed that the smartphone has no place during the meal. But if it rings mom’s bell, she may think it’s important and answer it anyway. But the rules should apply to everyone, right?
Be aware that parents and other adults have an important guidance function for children. Children learn from you how the world works and how to behave in certain situations. Your behavior therefore has a major impact on how your child uses media themselves. By setting an example of what a conscious approach to media can look like, you support your child in learning to use the smartphone and other media independently, sensibly and responsibly.
As young people get older, they also orient themselves more and more to their peers in their media use, and your influence as parents diminishes.
Perhaps your family also sometimes gets into arguments about media use, for example, when your child reaches for the smartphone out of boredom. They think it would be better if they read a book or played with friends instead. Just think about what you do yourself in your free time. Do you watch series in the media library or sometimes just play games on your cell phone? It’s not just about what media you use, but how often, in what situations, and what content.
You might consider what that looks like for each family member. How much time does each person spend with media and with other things? Is the ratio is okay for you. Agree with your family on rules about media time and cell phone-free times. For this purpose, you can, for example, jointly create a media usage agreement. Or use an app that lets you keep track of time on your screen. Often there is also the option to track screen time or set up limits in the mobile settings.
It is advisable to consciously incorporate screen-free times and activities into everyday family life in order to be able to process the media content and to allow the body to exercise.
Always keep in touch with each other – even when it comes to media. By taking an interest in your child’s media consumption, you build trust. Then your child will also take you seriously when you express concerns about certain apps or platforms, or come to you when they encounter unpleasant things about their media use. Younger children in particular should not be left alone with media. Talk about what they saw.
Also reflect on your own behavior on social networks and follow the advice you give your child – such as not posting photos without the consent of the people in them.
Everyday life is often stressful and it is sometimes difficult to keep agreements. One is exposed to the pressure to be constantly available. Talk about this with your child as well. Be honest with yourself and show understanding for your child. It can also be helpful to look together at which agreements are going well and which are going less well!
This scavenger hunt, which works with a smartphone or GPS device, is also fun for older kids and teens. Try it out and go on this special treasure hunt together with your child.
Geocaching involves using a GPS receiver to find small treasures that other players have hidden in different places. These caches are located in cans or jars of different sizes. The respective GPS location is registered on a platform, e.g. geocaching.com or opencaching.de, and can be saved and retrieved via app. Whoever finds a cache enters his or her name in a so-called logbook, which is attached to the cache. After that, the can is closed again and hidden in the same place, so that the next person also has to look for it.
Geocaching is a popular hobby among adults, children and teenagers. The treasures are hidden all over the world, so even on vacation you can go in search and discover exciting places. For some geocachers, it’s all about finding as many caches as possible and signing logbooks around the world.
There are caches in different categories and sizes. All important information is in the cache description. Some caches require special equipment for the search. With puzzle caches, tasks must be solved beforehand in order to get the GPS coordinates. Depending on the cache, children as young as 4 can join the treasure hunt. Older children can already read the descriptions themselves and be more independent in their search.
Some caches are not easy to find. This can quickly frustrate children. Therefore, read the cache description carefully beforehand. Often there are still important hints in the comments of the digital logbook (under each cache description). Occasionally it happens that a cache is no longer in hiding because someone has destroyed it or taken it away.
Some caches contain barter items, such as a toy figure or coin. Some items have a mission. For example, they are to get to another country or place by barter. All information is available on the geocaching platform. An important rule is that geocachers should search inconspicuously so as not to draw the attention of so-called muggles to the cache. Throwing away trash or destroying the landscape is not welcomed in the geocaching community and is against the rules of geocaching.
About fragFINN children only surf on verified and safe websites. As a result, they do not encounter inappropriate content. In addition to the centerpiece, the search engine, the homepage of fragFINN.de offers editorial surfing tips on particularly good and interesting children’s websites. This allows children to gain their first positive online experiences.
The search engine for children only shows safe and interesting content for children in the results.
The search results are based on a so-called positive list, in which all the websites included are checked beforehand by a media education team.
You can use fragFINN to find explicit children’s sites, but also harmless adult sites (e.g. zoo sites, club sites).
The children’s sites are marked as such in the search results and displayed first.
On the fragFINN homepage, children can find surfing tips on many different topics, videos, games, podcasts and news.
Children can also get involved as “FINNreporters” by producing great videos by and for children.
When using the search function on the website and in the app, the user’s search query is sent directly to the fragFINN server in Germany.
No user data is collected or stored in the process.
The free fragFINNchild protection app can also be installed for mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets with Android, iOS and Fire OS operating systems.
Within the app, you can only surf on the fragFINN positive list, which ensures an even safer surfing experience.
Children’s search engines offer a safe introduction to the world of the Internet. They can be a good preparation for using common and well-known search engines. The pre-testing of all content provides a very high level of security for your child. Nevertheless, you should accompany your child, especially when using it for the first time, and explore the search engine together. This way you can explain important functions for the search in more detail. The fragFINN search tips also provide child-friendly answers to questions about children’s search engines and tips for good search results.
If your child finds a page among the results that scares them, they can report this using the “Report page” button. The alarms received are checked daily. Your child also has the option of suggesting websites. The media education team checks the pages and can approve them for the children’s search engine if necessary. The search engine is also particularly compatible with additional child protection solutions such as JusProg.
Further information for parents can be found here: eltern.fragFINN.de
This article is part of the “Parents’ tips on children’s participation platforms” project, which is funded under the “Child-friendly digital services and orientation measures” program of the Federal Agency for the Child and Youth Protection in the Media (BzKJ) and realised by JFF – Institute for Media Research and Media Education and the German Association for Voluntary Self-Regulation of Digital Media Service Providers (FSM e.V.).
Every year in August, Cologne transforms into the Mecca of the computer and video game world for four days: Gamescom. This globally important trade fair attracts numerous visitors, including many children and young people with a passion for gaming.
Gamescom is Europe’s largest trade fair for interactive entertainment and is one of the most important in the world. Thousands of games enthusiasts from all over the world meet here. The focus is on computer and video games, their developers and the gaming community. Among other things, new games are presented on the large exhibition grounds, gameplay scenes are presented on live stages, there are lectures and shows, game corners, workshops and interviews with game developers. At some events, visitors can not only watch, but also play themselves.
gamescom 2024 will take place in Cologne from August 21 to 25, 2024.
Visiting Gamescom is a special experience for adolescents in different age groups. Everything revolves around gaming. You can discover lots of things and try out new games – if you want to queue up in the long lines.
For children up to 11 years old, there is a “Family & Friends” area where everything is tailored to the needs of the age group. This area is designed to be as stress-free as possible and offers a particularly wide range of variety and hands-on activities, such as play stations and a “Junior Club” where toddlers are guided by trained caregivers.
A key reason why young people are keen to attend Gamescom is the opportunity to see their favorite YouTubers and Let’s Players live. These stars of the scene are often on site and offer their fans exclusive meet-and-greets. There is a new feature this year: anyone wishing to visit the “Signing Area” this year must book a free time slot in advance.
Walking around Gamescom without adult supervision is the epitome of independence for many children. As a general rule, children under the age of 3 are not admitted to the fair. If your child is between 4 and 11 years old, they must be accompanied by an adult at all times. In fact, you should think carefully about whether your child can already handle the many stimuli at such an event.
Some parents with children under the age of 12 should make sure that their child is only allowed to play games that are appropriate for their age. At Gamescom, games for all ages may theoretically be presented, but in practice careful selection and attention is paid. are presented. Upon admission, each visitor will receive an age bracelet with different colors, analogous to the USK age ratings (12, 16 or 18 years), upon presentation of a photo ID. The USK checks every publicly presented game at Gamescom, so everything is clearly marked with the appropriate age limits. For games with a USK 16 or 18 rating, stand personnel must ensure that they are not actually visible or accessible to children – e.g. by providing privacy screens or separate rooms. Youth protection is a top priority here, as the Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body (USK) is the official youth protection partner of Gamescom: at the entrance and at numerous stands within the event, every visitor will receive an age band with different colors, analogous to the USK age ratings (12, 16 or 18 years), upon presentation of a photo ID. The USK has checked every game publicly presented at Gamescom and every visible trailer so that everything is clearly marked with the appropriate age rating. For games and trailers with a USK 16 or 18, stand personnel must ensure that they are not actually visible or accessible to children – e.g. by providing privacy screens or separate rooms.
If your child is over 11 years old and independent enough to discover Gamescom on their own, you should still arrange a meeting point and time in each hall where the family can meet again briefly. Gamescom is very crowded, so it’s easy to feel lost. Also make sure that your child’s smartphone has enough battery or give them a piece of paper with your name and phone number on it. This is also recommended if, after careful consideration, you decide to allow your child (aged 12 or over) to visit Gamescom with friends without adult supervision. Also, arrange a set time and place to pick up your child. Also, keep in mind that food and beverage prices at trade shows are often relatively high.
Every year at the end of August, it’s time for Gamescom, the world’s largest trade fair for digital games. This is also where prizes are awarded for the best and most popular games. Digital games are an integral part of everyday life for many children and young people. But which games do they like to play the most? We have compiled a small list of currently popular games.
Minecraft is a kind of Lego for the computer or tablet in which virtual building blocks are used to create your own world with creativity and skill. The game is approved for ages 6 and up by the USK and is very popular with children from late primary school age. In survival mode, players have to try to survive while fighting monsters. In creative mode, the focus is on creating new worlds. You can read more in our Minecraft tool description.
The game, which was released in 2017, is still as popular as it was at the beginning, especially in the 12 to 15 age group. Fortnite is a so-called battle royale game in which players fight against each other. There are several game variants: In the paid mode “Save the World”, the aim is to build a fortress with other players to protect the last human survivors from zombies. The free version “Fortnite Battle Royale” is far better known and more popular, in which the aim is to kill all other players alone or in a team in order to survive. The game is rated for ages 12 and up. More about this in our tool description for the game.
Roblox is a very popular free-to-play game that can be played on game consoles, mobile devices and PC. It is characterized by the fact that players can create their own game modes and try them out with others or choose from an extensive list of community game modes. This makes it possible to create replicas of other games such as racers or fighting games, which means there is a very large selection of games to choose from. Roblox carries the “USK from 12 years” label. Certain content in the game may be unsuitable for children, which is why Roblox has developed its own system to restrict content according to age rating. Further information about the game can be found in our tool description.
Brawlstars is a mobile game in which players compete against each other with a selection of characters in battle royale mode. The graphics are very colorful and reminiscent of comics. The game can be played alone or in teams. To defeat others, players use the weapons and special attacks of the “Brawlers”, as the characters are called in the game. The rounds only last a few minutes. New characters must be unlocked in the game by purchasing loot boxes. The game is rated 6+. You can find more information about the game in our tool description.
EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA) is the best-known series of soccer video games – as popular with young people as it is with adults. A new version has been published annually since 1993. You can use teams and their current footballers from real soccer leagues or put together your own. Some of these must first be drawn from so-called “packs” (loot boxes). It is approved for ages 12 and up. Learn more about it in our tool description.
New Horizons is about exploring and building on an uninhabited island. The islands of friends can also be visited. The game is designed for children and has no age restrictions. Teenagers and young adults also enjoy playing it. New Horizons can only be played on a Nintendo Switch and is part of a simulation game series. You can find our article on the game here.
The action and racing game is a perennial favorite among games and is particularly popular with older teenagers. GTA V (5) is the latest version of the popular game series. Players take on the role of a criminal and have to complete missions and tasks in a fictional city. The game has a USK rating from the age of 18. The online mode is particularly popular, where players can explore the city with their friends, complete missions and drive cars. There are dedicated servers for role-playing elements in which committing crimes takes a back seat. Young people often emulate their idols and play the game online with others, especially through well-known Twitch streamers. You can find out more about the game in our tool description.
Call of Duty is also a popular game series that has been successful for many years. Older teenagers in particular like this game. The current version Call of Duty : Modern Warfare III is a first-person shooter for the PC and many popular consoles. The popular battle royale mode is also available on mobile devices under the name Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile. Players fight as soldiers against others at breakneck speed. The aim is to destroy enemies by force of arms or capture points. With a USK rating from 18, this game is not suitable for younger children due to the depiction of violence – see tool description.
The brochure “Level 30 – Digitale Spiele pädagogisch beurteilt” (“Level 30 – Digital games pedagogically assessed“) from Spieleratgeber NRW also provides a good overview of games that are popular with children and young people.
The younger children are, the less they feel the need to use media. In the first years of life, other things play a more important role: contact with parents, learning to walk and talk, and so on. Your child needs a lot of attention from you in the first months and years. Therefore, you should not be distracted by devices. Agree on rules with your whole family about how to handle media in the presence of your child. Because even at baby age, you have an important role model function. If you don’t want your child to use media a lot already, you should use the smartphone or similar in front of your child little or not at all.
The older your child gets, the more he or she will be exposed to media. It wants to do the same as older siblings, mom or dad. Your child begins to understand what media is and how it works. It is becoming increasingly difficult to keep your child completely away from media. Rules can help shape how young children and preschoolers interact with media.
In order not to overtax your child, you should slowly expand the range of media used. Analog picture books, for example, can gradually be joined by audio stories and music. Short video chats with family members are also possible.
Young children can’t yet judge when it’s too much. If you schedule media use as a fixed activity during the day, such as an episode of Sandman before bedtime, your child will perceive it as a ritual to follow. Avoid using media as a babysitter .
Up to the age of three, very little time should be spent in front of a screen during the day. At this stage, children discover the world best with all their senses – with their hands, eyes, nose and mouth. On-screen content can quickly overwhelm them.
Between the ages of three and five, no more than 30 minutes at a time should be spent in front of the screen. These times are only an orientation. You know your child best and know what they can already do and understand. It is important that you accompany your child in their media use and observe how they deal with what they see and can answer questions. If your child seems very upset afterwards, the usage time should be reduced.
Young children perceive media much more emotionally than adults. Some things they cannot yet process or understand. Therefore, close support from you as parents is important! Technical solutions cannot replace the conversation with you. When selecting content, be sure to check for age ratings and educational assessments, if applicable. Explain to your child why she is not yet allowed to watch certain series that her older sister may already be watching.
It is important to actually follow the rules that have been set. If your child is still young, you should only use media together anyway, and you can be mindful of time. For preschoolers who may already be able to watch a series on their tablet alone, limiting them to one episode helps. An egg timer can also be helpful, since time indications are still very abstract.
Talk to your child about the reasons for fixed screen time so they understand the rules. If children learn to use the media in a sensible and controlled way at a young age, this will also be easier for them later on.
Amelie, now 28, says she learned English from the lyrics of rapper Eminem. Many adults probably feel the same way. Through “television” via streaming platforms, a similar phenomenon has emerged: English or other languages are learned virtually incidentally by watching the series in the original. Does it really work and does it also work for children?
The foundations for language learning are laid in early childhood. If your child hears foreign languages at an early age, it may be easier for him to learn languages later in school. Watching favorite movies or series like Harry Potter for older kids or Peppa Wutz for the younger ones can be a way and combine learning and fun. Most children can already understand whole sentences out of context. Pictures and sounds help. Translating individual words is not necessary. This makes it easier for them to watch movies in other languages. If their favorite show is in English, children often don’t even realize that they’re not listening to their native language. They also like to watch episodes and movies endlessly. Because they already know what is happening, they understand the content better in another language and learn English words along the way.
With most platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube make it possible to watch films and series in the original language – often English. You can usually change the audio language in the bar below the video, where you can also pause the video. The language can be changed before or even during the movie. Often you can additionally display subtitles, e.g. in German or English. This can help teenagers or adults with comprehension if you don’t understand every word spoken. At first glance it may seem more complicated, but the brain quickly gets used to reading along. If the subtitles are also in English, you perceive the “foreign” language with different senses (hearing, seeing), which makes it even more memorable.
Some children find foreign languages easier than others. Once your child has learned some basics at school, watching movies and series in English can help reinforce the new language. It can also be an incentive and motivation especially for young people to increase their own vocabulary in order to watch English movies in the original language even more “relaxed”. For many, it’s even “cooler” to watch the hot series in the original. Of course, your child should only watch series and movies that are appropriate for their age. Info on how to guarantee this can be found at the parent guide here. Watching movies in English should be seen primarily as a tool and (unfortunately) does not replace vocabulary cramming. Also, make sure that your child enjoys it and that it does not turn into a chore that is done unwillingly.
The radio used to be the first choice for listening to favorite shows or radio plays.
Today, it is mobile devices that make a huge selection of podcasts available.
Children are also avid listeners.
Whether exciting and funny stories, child-friendly news or music programs – there is something for every taste.
We give you a few recommendations for podcasts for children.
Podcasts are audio or video files that you can listen to or subscribe to on the Internet and sometimes save so that you can listen to or watch them again and again.
They are usually audio recordings.
New episodes are published regularly.
Most podcasts have an overarching theme such as sport, culture or news.
These are often series that are continued and not complete stories.
For example, there are true crime podcasts in which real criminal cases are retold.
Children love stories. If parents don’t have time to read aloud, audio plays and audio books are a good alternative.
The older children get, the more interesting podcast formats become.
There is a huge range of podcasts online, aimed at different age groups from around the age of 3.
Podcasts are available on various websites and via apps such as music streaming services or podcast portals.
You can find more good podcasts on platforms such as Spotify, Spotify Kids, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music. There you can display podcasts filtered by category.
Pay attention to existing age recommendations when making your selection. To date, there is no mandatory age rating as there is for videos or games. Podcasts can be published by virtually anyone. Please read the descriptions carefully to decide whether the podcast is suitable for your child. Listen to an episode before your child listens in. In principle, you should always listen to the first episodes of a new podcast series together and talk about them afterwards. Ask your child whether it was fun, whether they understood everything or what new things they learned – and, above all, whether they were frightened by anything. Is your child older? We also have Podcast recommendations for young people compiled.
Or try your hand at making your own podcast. This can a great project for the whole family be.
YouTube Kids is the child-friendly little sister of YouTube. The platform offers a large collection of age-appropriate videos for children. It was developed especially for families.
YouTube Kids is a special offer for children. The video platform uses a special algorithm to filter out child-friendly content and plays it into the app or website. YouTube Kids can be used anonymously and without registration. At the start of use, parents can choose between three age groups: Preschool age (up to four years), Younger (from 5-8 years) and Older (from 9-12 years).
The content is divided into four categories: Series, Music, Learn, Discover and Recommended. You’ll find more exciting content around topics like music, gaming, science, or crafts. The little ones’ favorite heroes are also available on YouTube Kids: Little Dragon Coconut, Bibi and Tina, the Sandman, etc.
YouTube Kids is designed so that children can use the platform easily. With large illustrations and a voice search function, the app is also aimed at children who are not yet able to read. It is not possible to upload your own videos like on the “real” YouTube.
Only those who log in to the app with a Google account can create a separate profile for each child, set it up individually and exercise more control.
There are two options:
With both options, videos and channels can be blocked so that they are not displayed.
Children – like adults – like entertainment. They can access their favorite characters and stories in the app virtually at any time. In this way, YouTube gives kids a certain degree of independence – if their parents allow it. For example, content can be searched for and viewed independently.
Also, it is possible to share videos and channels from the parents’ YouTube account to their child’s. These are videos that are not normally found on YouTube Kids.
The offer is based on an algorithm. This means that content is not selected by humans and is not checked for quality. Errors can occur during this technical selection process. In rare cases, children may come across disturbing content, as videos are sometimes incorrectly classified as suitable for children.
The algorithm plays videos with a large reach and a high number of views first. For example, in addition to well-known and popular cartoon characters, children’s influencers and family YouTube channels are particularly popular. These often also receive product placements and the like.
The free service contains advertising that is adapted to the target group. However, the advertising is less frequent than on YouTube and does not interrupt the videos. Only with a subscription to YouTube Premium, the YouTube Kids channel can also be viewed without advertising. However, it is positive that no other websites can be opened from the offer.
There may be errors in the selection of videos. No system is perfect. Therefore, the algorithm is constantly improved and manual checks take place. Parents are explicitly asked to report videos if they appear problematic.
The provider Google explicitly points out that YouTube Kids does not replace parental control and guidance of their children. Parents can track which videos their child has watched via the playback history. YouTube Kids provides further tips for parents on parental control settings on its website.
Since features like uploading, sharing or rating videos are not available, YouTube Kids is safer than its big sister YouTube. Nevertheless, unsuitable content may be uploaded due to the algorithm. Therefore, watch the videos together with your child or at least stay close to them. This will help you to recognize which content is suitable for your child and which is not.
Parents can create a password for the settings and use it, for example, to switch off the autoplay function, delete the search history or activate the timer to limit the time your child spends in front of the screen.
Try the app without your child first and then decide if it’s right for you and your family! There are detailed instructions on how to set up YouTube Kids at Medien kindersicher.
Chatting with friends, posting content, following stars – social media is very popular with many children and young people and an important part of their everyday lives. In this article, we present some popular platforms and apps and explain why they are so fascinating.
Dance challenges, LipSyncs and comedy – the Chinese platform TikTok offers an endless variety of entertaining short videos and is one of the most popular social media apps among children and young people. Users design their clips with trendy music, fun effects and creative filters. A special feature is the algorithm that displays personalized content in the “For you” feed according to the user’s preferences. Following viral trends and influencers, discovering new functions and video formats and connecting with each other via chat and hashtags fascinates children and young people. TikTok harbors risks such as data protection issues, inappropriate content such as war videos, pornography or drugs and entails communication risks. Endless scrolling can lead to extreme media use and promote digital stress. Parents can use the Accompanied mode control function for younger children.
Instagram is a popular social network where users share photos and videos. The app offers functions such as stories, reels and livestreams and focuses primarily on aesthetics. A variety of image and video editing tools such as filters give users the opportunity to express themselves creatively. The platform encourages interaction through likes, comments and direct messages. Children and young people use Instagram to network, follow role models and trends and present themselves online. Young users find it appealing to post selfies, test their impact and share beautiful moments with friends and family. The platform belongs to the large US internet company Meta. Challenges include the illusory world of perfect self-presentation and advertising by influencers. With parental control, Instagram can be set up safely and usage times can be controlled.
Threads is a text-based app from Instagramthat was specially developed for close friends. The functions of threads are the platform X platform. Users can share photos, videos and messages with selected contacts and view real-time updates about their location, activities or mood. This intimacy and the link to Instagram make threads attractive to young people. As on all social media platforms, there are risks in online communication and in being confronted with harmful content.
Snapchat is a social media app for sharing photos and videos. The so-called “snaps” disappear automatically after 24 hours. The relaxed, spontaneous communication and the fun filters and effects make the app popular with children and young people. Young people use the app to connect with their friends in particular. Snapchat rewards daily exchanges between friends with the Snapstreaks function and awards flame symbols. If the location function is activated, users can see where their contacts are currently located on the Snapmap. Snapchat users are automatically connected to the AI chatbotMy AI which answers questions and chats like a “real” friend. Snapchat is challenging in terms of privacy and data protection and can increase the pressure to be online all the time. The Snapchat Family Center offers parents setting options such as the activity overview and content controls.
BeReal is an ad-free social media app where users share spontaneous snapshots. Once a day, all users receive a simultaneous notification to take a photo with the front and rear camera within two minutes. Anyone who wants to can share their location. The spontaneity and authenticity make the app particularly popular with young people. Users can exchange ideas and network with each other via the comment function and in BeReal groups. The request to post a photo on time can cause digital stress for users and tempt them to disclose overly private information.
Knipsclub is a safe photo community that introduces children to social networks creatively and in a protected environment. Children can share, edit and comment on photos here under pedagogical supervision. In Knipsclub, users do not share any personal data and all content is moderated. This makes the platform a good alternative for parents who want to give their children a safe introduction to social media. Other protected options are platforms such as children’s issues of the DKHW or the children’s forum of Seitenstark. These children’s websites offer age-appropriate content, encourage creativity and offer moderated forums on specific topics.
TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, BeReal and Threads may be used from the age of 13 with parental consent according to the terms and conditions. When choosing social media services, make sure they are age-appropriate for your child. If your child is still younger, offer them alternatives such as the Knipsclub to make it easier for them to enter the world of online networking. Actively help your child get started with their own smartphone or on one of the popular social media platforms. Make sure your smartphone and apps are childproof and talk about the risks of social media use at an early stage. Educate your child about topics such as data protection, communication risks and community rules. Stay in touch about favorite channels and influencers to better understand and support your child’s media behavior.
Paw Patrol, Pokémon, Peppa Wutz – the TOGGO app offers children a comprehensive range of entertainment tailored specifically to their needs and interests. With a wide selection of series, interactive games, radio plays and music, the app is aimed specifically at young users of different ages. We present the offer.
The app aims to offer children and young people a safe and entertaining platform. It contains a wide range of content with series, games, radio plays and music tailored to different age groups. The Toggolino area is specially designed for children between the ages of 2 and 5 and enables them to navigate easily and without text. This protected area can only be exited with a text code, so children cannot do this by mistake. You need support from someone who can read. The TOGGO area is aimed at older children up to the age of 14 and offers a greater variety of exciting content, such as multiplayer games that can also be played with friends.
The app meets the needs of children at different stages of development: Younger children enjoy the simple and fun content in the Toggolino section, while older children can discover exciting adventures and cool, challenging games in the TOGGO section. Regular updates and new content ensure that there is always something new to discover. The opportunity to interact with the app keeps children busy and encourages their creativity. Content that is tailored to the age and interests of the users ensures a personalized experience that children particularly enjoy.
Super RTL emphasizes that the app is designed to be safe and suitable for children. Various measures are taken to protect the privacy and safety of the children. This includes strict compliance with the data protection guidelines, which can be viewed on the app’s website.
Actively accompany the use of the offer: Select the content together and accompany the use depending on the age of your child to ensure that the content is suitable. Talk openly with your child about the safe use of digital media, especially about the importance of data protection.
Sharing: Discover the content together with your child to share their experiences. Integrate your child’s opinion when selecting new content to encourage interest and participation.
Use the available settings: Customize the content according to your child’s age and level of development.
Open communication: Discuss with your child what to do if they come across inappropriate content or have difficulties using it. Clarify what needs to be considered when playing virtual games together if your child networks with friends in multiplayer games within the app.
Set usage limits: Encourage balanced leisure activities by jointly defining the duration of use.
Encourage alternative learning and play resources: Motivate your child to explore non-digital learning and play resources.
Explain advertising: Explain to your child what advertising is and how it works to create an awareness of commercial content.
Who Fortnite and the like, there’s no getting around this provider: the Epic Games Launcher from game developer Epic. We explain what the gaming platform offers and what parents should bear in mind when it comes to protecting minors.
The Epic Games Launcher distributes games from Epic and other manufacturers. While the majority of games are chargeable, there are also numerous free games in the launcher. Popular free games include Fortnite, Rocket League and Fall Guys . It should be noted, however, that optional in-game purchases and microtransactions are offered within the games.
Via Epic Games, users can purchase games, play them and chat with other players. Players create an account, buy access to a game and thus acquire the right to play the games on the platform. The platform can best be compared with the popular gaming platform Steam platform. A special feature is that certain games that normally cost between EUR 20 and 60 are offered for free at weekly intervals in the Epic Games Launcher. However, users must select the game in the launcher during the respective offer week and add it to their Epic account.
Battle Royale games such as Fortnite and Fall Guys fascinate children and young people. Great heroine stories are told here and battles are fought that require strategy and team spirit. Through Epic Games, young people can try out different games, connect with their friends and constantly discover new games on the market. The weekly free games also give children and young people with a limited pocket money budget access to the latest titles.
Anyone who deletes or blocks their account will lose access to the entire game library and all game achievements. Anyone using an unprotected account can be confronted with communication risks such as hate speech or extreme opinions, spend a lot of money on in-game purchases or play games that are not appropriate for their age. The parental controls include settings such as a chat filter for offensive language, spending limits, age restrictions and much more. The playing time cannot be limited. However, parents can currently have a weekly Fortnite playtime report sent to them by email.
Epic Games offers game developers a paid platform to bring their games to market. A right of return within 14 days applies to every game. In the community rules, Epic Games sets out guidelines for dealing with each other. The provider prohibits misconduct such as bullying or harassment and threatens consequences such as blocking the user’s account. Users can use the report form to report misconduct by other users. Each account can be protected by two-factor authentication. Parents can customize the use of the Epic Games Launcher for their children via the parental controls. Using a parental PIN, they can set age ratings for access to games and Fortnite experiences, restrict purchases and customize online interaction options such as voice chat and linking with friends. Epic Games offers parents and guardians a dedicated contact form for support requests.
Use the technical settings for youth media protection and set up your child’s Epic Games account in an age-appropriate manner. If your child is between 13 and 15 years old, we recommend setting up a children’s account. If your child plays Fortnite and other games on a games console, activate the safety settings for children there too. As the playing time cannot be restricted via the gaming platform, use the settings options on the console or PC for screen time if required. When selecting games, pay attention to the USK age rating and only allow your child access to age-appropriate games. You can find an overview and detailed instructions on parental controls at medien-kindersicher.de. Be aware that technical youth media protection does not replace media education, but is a supporting element. Stay open and interested and talk to your child regularly about their favorite games. Talk to your child about their play and interaction experiences. Don’t overlook risks such as contact with strangers and agree on rules for dealing with games in the family.
