The app you should use with grandkids
If you haven’t heard of it, Snapchat is a social media sensation that kids love. So if you have young ones in your life, it could be very beneficial to find out what it is and decide whether you might want to get involved. After all, this is one way that you could be communicating with them on their own terms.
Snapchat works with smartphones, and gives you a cheeky insight into the other person’s life. You can send a picture or video to someone, and then as soon as they view it – it’s gone.
Young people love this app as it’s about fun, not judgement. It’s not about getting ‘likes’ or comments on your perfectly staged photographs.
You can choose to send your post to one person, a group, or all of your followers.
For instance you could set up a fun exchange with a loved one where you send them a daily photo of your cat, your crazy shoes, or even your breakfast if you so desire. Whatever you think will get a laugh from the recipient is what you should use.
To set it up, sign up to the free app on iTunes or GooglePlay. Hit the yellow ghost on top of the page then click “add friends”.
You need to follow some active users first in order to see anything, so find your kids or grandkids (or you can even follow some big brands or celebrities too) by entering their usernames.
To take a photo on Snapchat, first hit the circle on the bottom of your mobile phone. Then just hit it once to take a photo, or hold it down to make a video.
From there you can have a bit of fun with it, adding text to the Snap by clicking on the “T” at the top of your screen. You can add stickers or filters, or just keep it natural.
Once you’re happy with your Snap, hit the blue and white arrow in the bottom right hand corner to open up your contacts. Click to select who you want to send it to, then click the arrow. It’s sent!
Have you ever used Snapchat? We would love to hear from you in the comments.
Related links:
10 factors that influence how you grandparent
7 motivational tactics from grandkids
5 tips for disagreeing grandparents and parents