With over 15 million daily active users, Twitch has become one of the most popular livestreaming platforms in the world. It was originally designed for gamers to stream their gameplay but has grown into a space where users can watch content on a wide range of topics like cooking, music, and “day in the life” videos. The interactive nature of the platform allows users to engage in live chats with creators during their streams. Twitch also has a feature called “Rooms,” where users can create and join custom chat spaces.1
Twitch’s success can be attributed to its strong sense of community because viewers interact with streamers and other fans in real-time, making the experience more engaging. Currently, Twitch doesn’t offer specific parental controls or content blocks so monitoring your child’s activity is key. Users can set filters to block offensive language, discrimination, and profanity in chats, but Twitch has become a target for online predators. These predators often engage with children through livestream chat, asking them to perform certain acts or show their bodies, sometimes offering tips or donations in exchange.1
Below are a few strategies parents can implement to proactively protect their children:1
- Create Open Communication: Talk to your children about their online activities to create a safety net for potential inappropriate behavior. Discuss the importance of safe internet behavior and remind them that anything shared online could be permanent.
- Understand the Terms of Service: Make sure your child is aware of Twitch’s age restrictions. Since parents have limited control of what their children may see when they are online, discussing and enforcing the age restriction is the responsibility of parents.
- Restrict Use to Family Areas: If your child is using Twitch, ensure they do so in shared family spaces. Many predators target children who are livestreaming from their bedrooms or when they’re alone. Set boundaries so that streaming is allowed only when an adult is present.
- Monitor Internet Use: Although Twitch lacks parental controls, third-party software can help you monitor your child’s online activity. Regularly check in to ensure your children are practicing safe internet behavior.
The variety of apps and social media children use are constantly evolving, making it challenging for parents and caregivers to stay up to date with the latest platforms. Twitch offers exciting opportunities for kids to engage with content and creators, but it also presents risks. By maintaining open communication, enforcing safe internet habits, and monitoring usage, parents can help protect their children from online predators. If you are interested in becoming a member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/ to learn more.
1 – https://www.parents.com/news/what-parents-need-to-know-about-twitch/