Parents Can Now Limit How Much Time Their Kids Spend on TikTok

The app is rolling out a "Family Safety Mode"

A TikTok logo is seen on a mobile device in Mountain View, California on November 2, 2019 as a photo illustration. (Photo by Yichuan Cao/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
A TikTok logo is seen on a mobile device in Mountain View, California on November 2, 2019 as a photo illustration. (Photo by Yichuan Cao/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Time to say goodbye to many hours wasted mindlessly scrolling on TikTok and avoiding your math homework, kids. TikTok is rolling out a new “Family Safety Mode,” which will allow parents to restrict time their children spend on the app.

The feature has already been implemented in the UK, but will soon roll out to other markets in the coming weeks. According to a blog post from Cormac Keenan, Head of Trust and Safety at the EMEA, the feature is meant to encourage people to develop “a healthy relationship with online apps and services.” (What a dream that would be). Next to screen time management, the Family Safety Mode also includes limits on sending direct messages (or messaging can be turned off completely) and restrictions on the appearance of content that may not be appropriate for all audiences.

In addition to the safety mode, the company has partnered with some popular creators to remind people to get off the app. These videos typically pop up after you’ve been watching videos for a long period of time. If you’re not on Family Safety Mode you can scroll right on past and continue to avoid the crushing reality of life itself; however, users with parental controls won’t be able to watch any longer, and can instead avert their attention to Instagram.

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