If you have a teen using Snapchat, you probably worry about who they’re talking to and how much time they spend scrolling. Snapchat seems to get it and just updated its Family Center to give parents a better view of what’s going on.

It’s not about spying—it’s about knowing enough to feel comfortable letting your teen be online.

See How Teens Are Using Snapchat

The first thing parents will notice is that they can now see how teens spend their time in the app.

•You can see daily total usage, so you know if they’re on the app a little or a lot.

•You can also see which features they use—messaging, the camera, Stories, Spotlight, or the Snap Map.

This is simple but useful. Instead of guessing, parents now have actual numbers and details to help manage screen time.

Who Are Teens Actually Talking To?

The big addition is something called Trust Signals. It basically tells parents how your teen knows a new friend:

•Location sharing – Does your teen share their location with this friend?

•Mutual friends – How many friends do they have in common?

•Saved in contacts – Is this person already in your teen’s phone?

•Community info – Are they in the same school or college group?

It’s a smart way to see if your teen is connecting with people they actually know instead of random strangers.

Built-In Safety Help

Snapchat didn’t stop at data. They also added a video guide and embedded safety tips right in the Family Center. Parents don’t have to go hunting online, they can just open the app and learn what to do.

Why This Matters

Snapchat has had some rough months, losing users in countries with stricter rules. Most of its audience is younger teens, so updates like this are important. They show parents the app can be trusted without completely locking teens out.

The Takeaway

At the end of the day, Snapchat’s updated Family Center doesn’t make parenting easier, but it does make it a little less stressful. Parents can see what teens are doing, who they’re talking to, and get a sense of whether everything feels safe—without hovering or snooping too much. It’s not perfect, but it’s a smart way to let kids explore social media while keeping a watchful eye, and that’s really what matters.