Despite the big names like Facebook and Twitter dominating the social networking market, there have been social network startups out there that are trying to establish themselves for a specific demographic, particularly children. Everloop is one of them and they recently announced a mobile app for their social networking services called Goobit. While Goobit has the Everloop interface, the big feature designed for kids thirteen and under is “goobing” your friends. In other words, kids can prank their friends by filling their screens with virtual bugs or toilet papering virtually. Everloop is a safer alternative and a great social network for kids to learn the ropes before moving on to Facebook when they get older. Like most children-focused social networks, there are parental controls, but parents themselves can’t comment on their children’s posts since it is solely designed for them. Moderators are also present in case kids go too far with posts that involve swearing, cyber-bullying, etc.

Specifically for Goobit, photos can be uploaded and shared along with post status updates. Most of the features are similar to Facebook such the ones above and sending direct messages to friends, but the “goobing” is the key difference between Everloop’s app and the leading social network in the world today. Everloop also has plans for Halloween next week with Goobit as kids can upload pictures of them wearing costumes and decorations to score credits. Also similar to Facebook, these credits can be used to buy virtual goods within Everloop. The app is out on iOS devices, but no word whether or not it is also coming to Android. With social networking continuing to be a mainstay of everyday life even for children, it is best for them to get started on it as early as they can. What Everloop and their Goobit app have going so far is worth it for them to get socially active with friends before moving on to the more popular social networks catered for older demographics.