UX for kids: how to make website design kids-friendly?

Most websites are created for adults, and there are many tutorials and articles about UX for such platforms. But there are not nearly as many about UX for kids. However, there are numerous entertaining and educational platforms for children.

The team at Drudesk explains how to bring UX for kids to a new level.

What is UX?

User experience is the level of satisfaction when user interacts with the product. If a website is not user-friendly, the visitor will get confused and move on to another platform. User experience refers to how easy or confusing it is to interact with the interface elements.

UX for kids: key features

UX for kids differs a lot, as children think differently. It isn’t a big deal for kids to click on UI elements to understand what something is or what it will do. However, such design should be highly intuitive and easy-to-use. Also, adults have a clear goal in mind when they surf a website, while kids use it for the journey.

• Children think in terms of symbols and images and possess minimal vocabulary. In UX designs for kids, you should rely heavily on symbols, icons, and pictures that convey meaning.
• Children focus on one thing at a time. Avoid navigation with multiple tiers.
• Children’s eyesight and the ability to convey information are still developing.

UX for kids: recommendations

• Choose bright colors

Color helps to engage and communicate. Children are attracted to bright primary colors, as their eyesight is still developing. Note that the usage of too many colors and styles is a common web design mistake.

Take a look at the Sesame Street website. They use a lot of yellow, which definitely appeals to children.

• Use large font

Have you noticed that books for children have larger text than adult books? The same is true of websites. This is because it is difficult for kids to see and process small fonts. It would be a nice idea to include special buttons that increase or decrease the font size.

For example, Highlights Kids use large and bright type, that is easy for children to read.

• Use images as often as possible

Replace text with images or icons when it is possible. It is another way to help kids understand the content. For example, instead of writing ‘Next’ on the button, draw an arrow. Make sure that the icons you use are recognizable. The simpler — the better.

Take a look at the National Geographic Kids website. They use icons for the menu elements together with the descriptions.

• Create a simple layout

Simplify the website layout. Remove all unnecessary elements, like marketing messages or taglines. You can place such information on a special page for parents.

• Use animation

Children love animation. Engage them with the help of bright gifs or small videos. Add interactive user interface elements.

Discover more about how to use animation in UX.

• Turn links into buttons

If there are any important links on your website, turn them into buttons. Children rarely click on links and interact better with the buttons.

• Create large buttons

Remember about mobile-friendliness, as many children are using mobiles or tablets to access the website. Make all touch elements large enough for little clumsy hands.

Create an outstanding UX for kids!

Designing for kids is definitely a challenge, as it is much more to consider when it comes to usability for children. Entrust your website to the team of UX designers, who know what kids expect and desire from a digital platform. Contact Drudesk for appealing and easy-to-use UX for kids!