Facebook is updating its Messenger Kids app to give parents more control over their kids usage.
Messenger Kids is being updated with a Sleep Mode. With this feature, parents can set designated start and stop times for when the app will go to "sleep". Kids will be unable to use the app during these times.
Sleep Mode can be controlled from the Parent Control center in the parents' Facebook account. Go to the Messenger Kids controls in the main Facebook app, tap on your child's name, then go to "Sleep Mode" in the App Controls section.
When the Messenger Kids app is in Sleep Mode, kids will be unable to send or receive messages or video calls, use the camera, or receive notifications. If they try to use the app, they'll see a message telling them that the app is in Sleep Mode and that they should come back later.
With Sleep Mode, parents can try to ensure that their kids aren't up all night using Facebook Messenger or chatting at some other time when they shouldn't be, like when they need to be doing homework. More parental controls in apps focused on kids are always a good thing, so this Sleep Mode is a welcome addition to Messenger Kids.