Child Safety Standards

1. Age-Appropriate Content

I ensure all app content is appropriate for the intended age group.

I avoid explicit, violent, or otherwise inappropriate themes, visuals, or language.

My apps include a clear age rating in the app store (e.g., “Rated for Ages 3+”).

I design interfaces with child-friendly graphics, fonts, and layouts.

2. Data Privacy and Security

I comply with child privacy laws such as:

COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act) in the U.S.

GDPR-K (General Data Protection Regulation - Kids) in the EU.

I avoid collecting unnecessary personal data (e.g., name, location, or contact information).

I use encryption to secure data during storage and transmission.

My apps have a clear and accessible privacy policy explaining:

What data is collected.

Why it’s collected.

How it’s used.

I always obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting data from children.

3. Parental Controls

I provide features for parents/guardians to:

Monitor and approve access to certain app features.

Control screen time limits within the app.

Review and delete collected data upon request.

I implement secure parental locks for sensitive sections (e.g., in-app purchases).

4. Safe Social Interaction

If my app includes social or multiplayer features:

I use content filters to block inappropriate language.

I allow only predefined messages or emojis for communication.

I include tools for real-time moderation to detect bullying, harassment, or misuse.

I enable easy reporting and blocking of other users.

5. Ad and In-App Purchase Restrictions

I disable personalized ads for users under 13 years old.

I ensure ads are appropriate for children and free from misleading content.

I clearly communicate all in-app purchases with confirmation dialogs.

I require parental approval (e.g., password or PIN) for purchases.

6. Educational Value

I include content that promotes:

Cognitive development (e.g., puzzles or math games).

Creativity (e.g., drawing or storytelling tools).

Emotional intelligence (e.g., lessons on empathy or teamwork).

7. Accessibility

I design my apps to be inclusive and usable by children with diverse abilities:

I use large, legible fonts and simple navigation.

I include voice commands or screen reader support.

I use color schemes that accommodate colorblind users.

8. Behavioral Guidelines

I promote positive behavior through gamification, such as:

Rewards for teamwork or problem-solving.

Encouragement to take breaks after extended use.

I avoid addictive design elements (e.g., infinite scrolling or excessive notifications).

I teach children digital safety practices (e.g., “Never share your personal information online.”).

9. Regular Updates and Monitoring

I regularly review child safety features based on user feedback and new regulations.

I monitor the app for potential misuse or harmful content.

I update the app to patch vulnerabilities and improve safety measures.

10. Compliance and Certification

I obtain child safety certifications such as:

kidSAFE Seal Program

Family Friendly App Certification

I work with legal and regulatory experts to ensure compliance with child protection laws globally.

Example Child-Friendly Terms of Use

I simplify the user agreement for children and parents:

“We care about your safety! Never share personal information in the app.”

“Ask a parent or guardian before making purchases or chatting with others.”

By adhering to these standards, I ensure that my apps provide a safe, enjoyable, and trustworthy environment for children and their families.