In a recently resurfaced interview from March 2023, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew dropped a surprising bombshell – he does not permit his own children to use TikTok. This revelation has left many social media users both intrigued and perplexed, raising questions about the safety and appropriateness of the platform for younger users.
Shou Zi Chew, who has two children aged eight and six, articulated his rationale behind this decision. He firmly believes that his kids are simply too young to navigate the intricate world of social media that TikTok offers. In his candid interview, Chew emphasized the importance of parental supervision when it comes to youngsters accessing TikTok.
According to Chew, there are stringent legal requirements in place that necessitate children under the age of 13 to use a different app entirely. However, what sets him apart from many other parents is his personal commitment to extend this restriction beyond legal mandates. He stands firm in his decision not to grant his children access to TikTok until they are older.
One key takeaway from Chew’s interview is the acknowledgment of the age restrictions that TikTok has in place for its users. He mentioned that these restrictions are especially stringent in the United States compared to other countries, reflecting the company’s commitment to ensuring a safer online environment for children.
In an era where concerns about children’s safety on the internet are ever-present, Shou Zi Chew also shed light on TikTok’s efforts to enhance security. He introduced a feature called ‘Family Pairing,’ which allows parents to have greater control and visibility over their children’s TikTok activity. This feature aims to provide peace of mind to parents concerned about their kids’ online interactions and content consumption.
Chew’s decision to prohibit his own children from using TikTok sends a powerful message to both parents and the wider community. It underscores the importance of age-appropriate content consumption and responsible digital parenting. While TikTok can undoubtedly be a source of entertainment and creativity for many, it is crucial to recognize that it may not be suitable for all age groups.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, parents must remain vigilant and engaged in their children’s online lives. Shou Zi Chew’s candid interview serves as a reminder that even the CEO of a social media giant places a high value on protecting his own children from the potential risks of the online world. His commitment to safety and responsibility underscores the ongoing need for a balanced approach to technology use, especially among our youngest digital citizens.
