to ask if there are any safe ways for kids to message each other online?

[whothehellknows]

My oldest (7) has a tablet and would like to be able to send messages to her school friends and family abroad. I think it's sweet and will help her practice spelling, etc. But I'm a little wary of opening up this method of communication as well.

Are there any messaging apps that kids can safely use? Would it be best to just create a fairly anonymous email account and review what is being sent and recieved?

apple has its own built in system, FaceTime?

DD uses a hudl, and I think most of her friends do to. (doubled up Tesco vouchers all 'round) She has skype, but on my account I tend to get the odd phishing message promising I can meet busty singles in my area...

There is a childrens version of Skype called Skypito www.skypito.com/

Email?

Oovoo seems to be the platform of choice these days

Do not go near oovoo with a barge pole! My DDs school are having loads of trouble with this app re bullying. I believe you can talk to up to 10 people at once which is part of the problem as things can get out of control very quickly.

I use tocomail.

Let DS use iMessage on his iPad. Connected to my email account so I can see the messages and it's only given out to friends and family.

Thanks, I'm going to have a go with skypito and see how they get on.

FaceTime, iMessage, email and actually we let ours use Whatsapp too - but we control their contact list.

Not heard of skypito but looks great!

There's also Google+ hangouts/messaging which should be already available on Android.

yes, one safe way and that is for you to watch them.
My dd is talking on Skype now and I can hear every word as she is in the same way.
from what I have heard and experienced with older dc, it's the only way.