Facebook Tests Ways For Kids Under 13 To Access The Site

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- How young is too young for Facebook?

Though Facebook currently bans children under the age of 13, millions of them have profiles on the site by lying about their age.

1010 WINS' Al Jones Gets Reaction From Pre-Teens And Parents

Now, the company is testing out ways to allow younger kids on its site without needing to lie. It would be under parental supervision, such as by connecting children's accounts to their parents' accounts. That would allow Facebook to comply with federal regulations regarding children under 13 online.

However, the idea is not getting a lot of "likes" from parents. 1010 WINS' reporter Al Jones talked to both parents and pre-teens about the idea. "Kayla," 11, said it sounds like fun, while "Patti," a mom, said she'd "rather see them not get into social media."

"All the fun things in there and you can also like post pictures so then you can like -- it's really just the whole thing is really fun," 11-year-old "Catherine" told Jones.

While kids seem excited about the prospect of posting pictures, sharing links and writing to groups of friends, some said they see potential problems.

"There's like a lot of swear words on it that kids can pick that up. It's not really the best," one girl said.

Even with the policy change that would allow parents to access and manage their pre-teens' accounts, some said they are still not convinced.

"I would be really nervous about kids under 13 on Facebook," one mom said.

The Wall Street Journal first reported on the development Monday. It could be a long way off, or never get implemented, as happens with many features that Facebook tests.

In a statement, Facebook said it is in ongoing dialogue with stakeholders, regulators and other policymakers about how best to help parents keep their kids safe online.

What do you think? Should Facebook allow children to have profiles on the site? Sound Off below.

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