Tech Desk 
Apr 08, 2025
An undated image of the TikTok logo displayed on a mobile screen. — Depositphotos
In a move aimed at granting parents more control over their teenage kids' online activities, TikTok has enhanced its Family Pairing feature in a latest update.
Promoting healthier screen time habits for teens, the changes in the Family Pairing feature are part of TikTok’s ongoing efforts to ensure families' online safety and digital well-being.
The tool now allows parents to set custom screen-free times, such as during school hours or bedtime. While teenagers still have the privilege of asking for additional time, the final decision rests in the parents' hands.
Parents will also be able to see who their teens follow, who follows them back, and which accounts have been blocked. This approach advocates open conversations about online behaviour and safety.
Family Pairing now offers over 15 customisable settings focused on privacy, safety, and wellness, providing parents with more flexibility in shaping their children's TikTok experience.
Further encouraging healthier habits, the short video platform has also introduced a Wind-Down Feature for users under 16. After 10:00pm, the app will show calming music and reminders to log off. If users will continue scrolling, more persistent prompts will appear.
In the coming weeks, teens reporting content that violates community guidelines will also be able to notify a trusted adult, all without having the Family Pairing feature enabled.
