In a recent interview, Shou Zi Chew, the CEO of TikTok, made a surprising revelation that has sparked conversations across social media. Despite leading one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, Chew disclosed that he does not permit his own children to use TikTok.
The interview, conducted in March 2023, has resurfaced online, leaving many wondering why the head of TikTok would bar his own children from the very app he oversees. Chew, who is a father of two, with children aged eight and six, believes that his kids are simply too young to engage with the platform.
During the interview, Chew emphasized the importance of parental supervision for children using TikTok, particularly for those under their teenage years. He pointed out that it is a legal requirement for children under the age of 13 to use a different app altogether. However, he expressed that he wouldn’t relax this restriction to allow younger children access to TikTok.
One significant aspect Chew highlighted was the existence of age restrictions during the registration process on TikTok. He noted that these restrictions are more stringent in the United States compared to other countries, reflecting the platform’s commitment to user safety.
Furthermore, Chew unveiled a feature called ‘Family Pairing’ during the interview. This feature is designed to empower parents to monitor their children’s activities on TikTok more effectively, offering an additional layer of security.
This revelation from TikTok’s CEO raises questions about the age-appropriateness of social media use among children and the role of parental responsibility in navigating the digital landscape. It also highlights the platform’s commitment to ensuring a safer online environment for younger users.
As the conversation around children’s access to social media continues, Shou Zi Chew’s stance serves as a reminder of the importance of striking a balance between the benefits and potential risks of technology, especially for the most vulnerable users in our society—our children.
