I Don't Understand the Apps They Use
You don't need to use every app your child uses. But understanding the basics helps you have better conversations and set smarter boundaries.
What parents need to know about popular platforms
TikTok
Age: 13+What it is: Short videos, trends, and an algorithm that learns what your child likes. Content can range from funny to distressing.
Key risk: Addictive scrolling, exposure to inappropriate content, comparison culture.
What it is: Photo and video sharing with stories, reels, and direct messaging.
Key risk: Body image pressure, social comparison, cyberbullying via DMs.
Snapchat
Age: 13+What it is: Disappearing messages and photos. Streaks encourage daily use.
Key risk: False sense of privacy (screenshots exist), pressure to maintain streaks, location sharing.
Discord
Age: 13+What it is: Chat platform popular with gamers. Includes text, voice, and video in servers.
Key risk: Unmoderated servers, exposure to strangers, potential for grooming.
What it is: Messaging app used for group chats with friends and family.
Key risk: Group chat bullying, sharing of inappropriate content, hard to monitor.
YouTube
Age: 13+What it is: Video platform with everything from education to entertainment.
Key risk: Rabbit holes into harmful content, autoplay keeps them watching, comments can be toxic.
Roblox
Age: No minimumWhat it is: Gaming platform where users create and play games. Very popular with younger children.
Key risk: In-game chat with strangers, in-app purchases, some user-created content is inappropriate.
AI Chatbots (ChatGPT, Character.AI)
Age: 13+/variesWhat it is: AI tools for conversation, homework help, or role-playing.
Key risk: Emotional dependency, inaccurate information, sharing personal details.
What you can do
Ask your child to give you a tour of their phone — what apps they use and why
Check privacy settings together (most apps have them, but they're often not turned on by default)
Agree on which apps are appropriate for their age
Use Internet Matters or NSPCC Net Aware for detailed, up-to-date app guides
Remember: banning apps often pushes use underground. Understanding and boundaries work better