TikTok Unveils New Safety Features for Parents
Enhanced parental controls give families more visibility and customization options
Key Takeaway
TikTok's July 2025 safety update introduces comprehensive parental controls that give families greater visibility into teen account activity and customizable safety settings. These features strengthen TikTok's Family Pairing system and address concerns about teen social media use.
New Parental Control Features
📊 Enhanced Activity Dashboard
Parents can now view comprehensive activity reports including:
- Daily screen time summaries
- Most-watched content categories
- Account interactions and follows
- Search history overview
🔒 Customizable Privacy Settings
Granular controls for teen account privacy:
- Who can comment on videos (Everyone, Friends, No One)
- Who can duet/stitch content
- Who can view liked videos
- Direct message permissions
⏰ Advanced Screen Time Management
New time management tools include:
- Scheduled "quiet time" when app is restricted
- Daily time limit reminders
- Bedtime mode (restricts use during set hours)
- Break reminders every 30-60 minutes
🛡️ Content Filtering Options
Parents can now filter content shown to teens:
- Restricted Mode (filters mature content)
- Keyword filtering (block specific topics)
- Age-appropriate content preferences
- Reporting and blocking tools
How to Set Up Family Pairing
- 1
Open TikTok Settings
Both parent and teen open TikTok → Me → Menu (three lines) → Settings and Privacy
- 2
Navigate to Family Pairing
Tap "Family Pairing" under the Privacy section
- 3
Link Accounts
Parent selects "Parent," teen selects "Teen," then scan QR code to link accounts
- 4
Customize Settings
Parents can now adjust all safety and privacy settings for the linked teen account
Best Practices for Families
- ✓
Start with Conversation
Discuss online safety before implementing controls
- ✓
Review Together Weekly
Check activity dashboard together and discuss any concerns
- ✓
Balance Safety and Privacy
Respect teen autonomy while maintaining appropriate oversight
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Adjust as Teens Mature
Gradually loosen restrictions as teens demonstrate responsible use