WhatsApp has revealed that preteens are now permitted to utilize its messaging service through newly introduced parent-managed accounts that include specific limitations. Here are the particulars.
### Parent-managed WhatsApp accounts for preteens being launched now
If you are a parent or guardian of a preteen, WhatsApp indicates that you can now establish an account for that child. Preteen accounts feature distinct restrictions and controls for parents.
As per WhatsApp’s blog:
> To start, parents must have the device purchased for their family member alongside their own device to link the accounts. Once configured, these accounts are overseen by the parent or guardian, who will have the ability to determine who can reach out to the account and which groups they can become a part of. Additionally, parents can assess message requests from unfamiliar contacts and oversee the account’s privacy settings. The new parental controls and settings are safeguarded by a parent PIN on the managed device. Only parents can modify and access privacy settings, ensuring they have the authority to customize their family’s experience.
WhatsApp emphasizes that even though parents possess extra controls over whom their child is communicating with, the content of conversations remains confidential. It states, “All personal conversations stay private and secured with end-to-end encryption, meaning no one—not even WhatsApp—can view or listen to them.”
Further information regarding parent-managed accounts can be found [here on WhatsApp’s support site](https://faq.whatsapp.com/894871699629864).
Additional recent updates from WhatsApp include [Group Message History](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/19/whatsapp-launches-one-of-its-most-requested-features-for-groups/), [voice and video calls](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/09/whatsapp-web-starts-rolling-out-voice-and-video-calls/) on the web, and a [new anti-spyware mode](https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/27/whatsapp-launches-new-anti-spyware-mode-for-improved-security/) for enhanced security.