TikTok has announced the introduction of enhanced features to its Family Pairing tool, aiming to improve parental control and support the digital well-being of young users. The updates provide parents with more transparency and control over their child's use of the platform, while also promoting healthier screen time habits for teenagers.

One of the key updates is the Time Away Scheduling feature, which enables parents to set screen-free periods based on their family's schedule, such as during school hours or at bedtime. While teens will be able to request additional screen time, the final approval rests with the parents. This feature is intended to give families more flexibility in managing screen time while encouraging a balance between digital and offline activities.

Another new capability allows parents to see their teen's network, including the accounts they follow, those who follow them, and any accounts they have blocked. This transparency aims to facilitate open discussions about online interactions and help families navigate digital spaces together.

TikTok is also preparing to roll out a proactive reporting alert feature. When a teen reports content that may violate TikTok's Community Guidelines, they will soon have the option to notify a trusted adult. This feature will be available even if Family Pairing has not been activated, broadening the platform's safety measures.

Additionally, TikTok is introducing the Wind-Down feature, designed to help teens under 16 manage late-night screen time. If a teen continues to use TikTok after 10 PM, a reminder with calming music will prompt them to log off. Should the usage persist, a follow-up notification will be sent. Early tests have shown that the majority of teens keep the reminder enabled, suggesting that the feature may encourage healthier screen-time behaviors. TikTok also plans to introduce guided meditation exercises within Wind-Down in the coming weeks, based on research indicating that mindfulness can improve sleep quality.

Furthermore, TikTok is expanding its Global Youth Council in 2025 to include more youth perspectives on safety, well-being, and inclusion. The council has played a role in shaping platform policies since its launch in 2023.