TikTok is wildly popular with teens, but the default settings allow too much exposure to explicit content and endless scrolling. As a parent, you can use built‑in parental controls to help protect kids from inappropriate content and limit screen time【311851738366406†L79-L97】. TikTok’s Family Pairing tool gives you granular control over your child’s account.
### Default teen settings
– Private accounts for teens by default【311851738366406†L99-L115】
– Daily screen‑time limit of 60 minutes【311851738366406†L99-L115】
– Direct messaging disabled for users under 16【311851738366406†L99-L115】
– Content restrictions limit videos in the For You feed【311851738366406†L99-L115】
### Family Pairing features
– Screen‑time management (set daily time limits)【311851738366406†L116-L134】
– Restricted Mode to filter out mature content【311851738366406†L116-L134】
– Search restrictions for videos and hashtags【311851738366406†L116-L134】
– Control discoverability and account suggestions【311851738366406†L116-L134】
– Manage who can send direct messages【311851738366406†L116-L134】
– Restrict who can view liked videos and comments【311851738366406†L116-L134】
### Steps to enable Family Pairing & set controls
1. Open TikTok and tap the profile icon → Menu (three lines) → **Settings and Privacy** → **Family Pairing**【311851738366406†L137-L143】.
2. Choose “Parent” on your device and “Teen” on your child’s device, then scan the QR code to link accounts【311851738366406†L144-L155】.
3. In Family Pairing, select **Screen Time Management** to set daily limits and require a passcode【311851738366406†L144-L155】.
4. Turn on **Restricted Mode** in the same menu to filter mature content【311851738366406†L156-L161】.
5. Adjust other settings, such as search, discoverability, direct messages and comments.
### Conclusion
These tools provide an essential safety net, but they are not a substitute for parental involvement. Regularly discuss online safety with your child and review these settings as TikTok introduces new features.
About The Author
My name is Jack and I help Parents protect their kids online. I’ve grown up in this digital age, and I know firsthand the dangers of the internet. I also know all the secrets that kids won’t dare don’t tell their parents.