Hey, Mom and Dad: When Should You Let Your Kids Sign Up For Facebook?

Welcome to "Hey, Mom and Dad"—a weekly feature in which we ask our Facebook fans to share their views on parenting. Every week, we get the conversation started by taking a look back at a question we asked parents the week before on Patch Facebook pages from around the area.

Facebook currently requires that users be 13 years or older to have an account. While some parents think even 13 is too young, the company has considered reducing age restrictions. But even under the existing set-up, it's easy for children to circumvent the current restrictions by being less-than-honest about their age.

That brings us to this week's question.

When should a child be allowed to start their own Facebook account?

Take a look at what people had to say and join the conversation in the comments section.

Ashlyn R. 10 but the parents should set it up with appropriate privacy settings and monitor it. It is a great way for family and friends to stay in touch. As they get older they can have more freedom. via Shorewood Patch

Lisa P. Both my kids got theirs as soon as they could (8th or 9th grade). I have total access to both accounts and they have to keep their walls free of bad language, inappropriate images and any talk of family business. Neither one is on a great deal (they're far too busy in "real" life), and so far have handled it beautifully. The girl is using her page as a portfolio site for her college apps, which I think is very cool. via Oswego Patch

Kevin S. I don't think the 13 and up rule works. My son is 12 and has an fb account. I wasn't really in favor of it, but only my wife and I know the password so he cannot log in on his own and gets very limited time on it. The computer is also in our kitchen so we know what he is doing at all times. via Plainfield Patch

Kelly Stare Guzniczak: My kiddo just turned 13 (today.) We are letting her get an account today. —via Geneva Patch

So what's your take? Tell us in the comments.