What is Niantic Kids Account for Pokémon GO? An In-Depth Look
As an avid Pokémon GO player and gaming content creator, I‘ve done extensive research into Niantic Kids accounts. Here is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about this child-friendly login system offered by Niantic, the developers of Pokémon GO.
Why Niantic Created the Kids System
Niantic had to get creative to make Pokémon GO compliant with COPPA (Children‘s Online Privacy Protection Act), which requires parental consent for apps gathering data on kids under 13. Rather than exclude children entirely, Niantic built the Niantic Kids platform to ensure privacy while letting kids join the fun.
What Makes Niantic Kids Accounts Different
Niantic Kids accounts have special protections:
- Parents must verify identity to legally consent for their child, meeting COPPA guidelines.
- Personal data collection is limited to only what‘s required for gameplay.
- Parents manage permissions and features via the online Parent Portal.
By handling children‘s information carefully, Niantic satisfies regulations like COPPA.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an Account
Want your kiddo to catch Pokémon? Here are the basics to get them playing fast:
- Parent/guardian creates account – Visit the portal and verify your identity.
- Parent gives consent for child – Accept Terms of Service on your child‘s behalf.
- Child logs into Pokémon GO – They sign in using new Niantic Kids credentials.
- Parent manages account – Control permissions, features, and info via Parent Portal.
And that‘s it! Kid-safe access with full parental oversight.
What Parents Can Control Through the Parent Portal
The Niantic Parent Portal allows extensive customization for your family‘s needs:
| Permission | Description |
|---|---|
| Basic Info | Edit child‘s avatar, username, birthday |
| Contacts | Approve friends and messaging |
| Location Sharing | Allow/disallow location tracking features |
| Game Activity | Check playtime, mileage walked, etc |
| Purchase History | Review and refund purchases |
You can dial permissions up or down based on your child‘s age and responsibility.
The Many Benefits of Safer Pokémon GO Play
As both an industry expert and a parent, I think Niantic Kids offers huge advantages:
- Legal compliance allows child access without COPPA violations
- Games like Pokémon GO encourage outdoor exercise
- Limited social features reduce exposure to strangers
- Parents enable more features as kids prove trustworthy
The result is enjoyment of Pokémon GO in a protected environment.
What Age Can Kids Take Over Their Accounts?
Per COPPA, parental oversight is required until age 13. When a child turns 13, they gain full control over account settings and personal information.
So on their 13th birthday, kids "graduate" to independent management of their Niantic accounts!
Closing Thoughts on Pokémon GO for Kids
In my professional opinion, Niantic Kids allows children to explore AR gaming safely. By giving parents tools to oversee play, kids can develop digital literacy skills progressively while under family supervision.
I hope this complete guide clarifies how Niantic Kids accounts keep children‘s data private within Pokémon GO! Let me know if you have any other questions.
