Parents Can Now Manage Screen Time, Followers, and App Access
TikTok is expanding its parental control features with new tools designed to enhance teen safety. The social media giant announced on Tuesday that parents will now have the ability to restrict app usage during specific hours, monitor their teen’s follower list, and enforce screen time limits.
With the new “Time Away” feature, parents can block access to TikTok during designated periods such as school hours, family time, or late at night. They can also set a recurring schedule for when their teen can and cannot use the app. Although teens can request extra time, parents will have the final say.
In addition to time restrictions, parents will now be able to view their teen’s following list, see who follows them, and check blocked users. TikTok says this update is meant to promote digital literacy and encourage safety discussions between parents and their children.
Encouraging Better Digital Habits
TikTok is also introducing a “wind down” mode to help teens put their phones away at night. If a user under 16 years old is still scrolling after 10 PM, they will see a full-screen notification with calming music, reminding them to log off. If they dismiss it, a second prompt will appear. In the coming weeks, TikTok plans to test meditation exercises as part of this feature.
To further empower parents, TikTok will now allow them to switch their teen’s account back to private if the teen has made it public. The company is also reintroducing its STEM feed for teens who had previously turned it off.
A Response to Growing Scrutiny
TikTok has been under pressure from lawmakers and regulators over concerns about its impact on young users. Like other social platforms, it has faced congressional hearings questioning how its algorithms affect mental health, screen addiction, and online safety. These new parental controls appear to be part of TikTok’s strategy to address these concerns and ease regulatory scrutiny.
However, TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain, especially with the extended deadline on the potential ban issued by President Donald Trump in January.
As the platform continues to evolve, these updates signal a push toward greater parental involvement—but whether they effectively balance safety and teen autonomy remains to be seen.
