TikTok unveils new parental controls to help teens

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In a bid to empower South African families, TikTok has launched enhanced parental controls and wellbeing tools.

These are designed to curb screen addiction and foster healthier digital habits among teens.

TIKTOK’S NEW UPDATE

The updates arrive as concerns about social media’s impact on youth mental health continue to dominate global conversations.

The standout feature? Time Away – a scheduling tool letting caregivers block access during school hours, bedtime, or family time.

Teens can request extra screen time, but parents hold veto power, according to Business Insider.

Adam Presser, TikTok’s Head of Operations & Trust and Safety, explains: “No teen or family is the same. Whether it’s during family time or a weekend away, caregivers can tailor breaks to suit their lifestyle”.

PARENTAL VISIBILITY

Parents now gain visibility into their teen’s online circle – seeing who they follow, who follows them, and blocked accounts.

This transparency aims to spark conversations about digital literacy, though critics argue teens could still bypass controls by creating secondary accounts.

Soon, teens reporting problematic content will have the option to alert a trusted adult – even without Family Pairing enabled.

While welcomed, experts caution that reliance on teens to self-report risks underuse, according to Forbes Africa.

TIKTOK’S NEW FEATURES

For users under 16, a Wind-Down feature interrupts late-night scrolling with calming music and prompts to log off after 10 PM.

Early trials show teens often ignore these reminders, though TikTok plans to test meditation exercises soon, according to ABC News.

The platform’s STEM feed, now in over 100 countries, delivers science and tech content to millions weekly. While not a direct safety tool, it shifts focus from endless scrolling to learning.

TikTok collaborates with global bodies like the WeProtect Global Alliance to strengthen age verification and digital safety standards.

PLATFORM POLICIES

In South Africa, where mobile-first internet access dominates, such partnerships could improve age assurance. Critics have noted that the platform still lacks robust verification checks.

The Global Youth Council – expanded to 28 members across 15 countries, including Nigeria and Cameroon – ensures teens influence platform policies.

While no South African representatives are listed, the initiative highlights TikTok’s push to centre young voices.

Dr. Vicki Harrison, a TikTok advisor, praises the tools: “Prioritising sleep and balanced usage supports wellbeing”.

TIKTOK AND CONTENT ADDICTION

Yet Titania Jordan, a digital safety expert, dismisses features like Wind-Down as “superficial”, arguing teens won’t trade addictive content for meditation.

With mobile data costs averaging R50–R150 per gigabyte, South African teens often rely on public Wi-Fi or shared devices. This complicates parental oversight.

While TikTok’s controls offer a framework, experts stress that open dialogue remains key.

As Hoet of the Kids Mental Health Foundation notes: “Even adults struggle with algorithms designed to hook us – teens need guidance”.

BAND-AID SOLUTIONS

TikTok’s updates signal progress, but critics argue they’re Band-Aid solutions for deeper issues like algorithmic addiction.

For SA families, the tools provide a starting point – but consistent monitoring and tech-free zones remain essential.

As Presser concludes: “Safety is at our core, but families must stay proactive“.

DIGITAL WELLBEING

While no app can fully replace parental vigilance, TikTok’s moves reflect a growing industry trend. Platforms are acknowledging their role in shaping digital wellbeing.

For South African teens glued to screens, these controls offer a lifeline – but only if parents seize them.