WhatsApp announced optional parental controls for teenagers on 30 September, allowing families to manage privacy settings and access to features. Linking accounts requires agreement from both the adult and the teenager and does not allow parents to read personal conversations, according to the company. Availability will be gradual.
What families can manage
WhatsApp says parents can adjust who sees a teenager’s profile photo, who can add them to groups, and certain options for Status, Channels and Meta AI. Parents can also receive alerts about some group activity. Relaxing certain settings requires a parent-set PIN.
Messages remain private
The company says personal messages and calls remain protected by end-to-end encryption. Linking accounts through these controls does not allow parents to read conversations. An activity alert and the contents of a chat are different kinds of information.
Before switching them on
The official help information describes controls for teenagers aged 13–17 with an adult aged at least 18. Both must agree to link their accounts. Availability is gradual: update the app and check the relevant help page if the option has not appeared.
A conversation before configuration
My editorial suggestion is to review the options together. A family might start by explaining the problem they want to address: invitations to unfamiliar groups, profile photo visibility or uncertainty about a feature. Defining the concern makes it easier to choose a useful setting.
It is also worth agreeing when to revisit the arrangement. Needs change with age and experience. Controls can support that conversation, but a settings screen cannot replace the opportunity to ask questions, raise a concern or seek help.
Where to find the instructions
WhatsApp’s blog and Help Centre explain the scope of the controls and the setup steps. The carousel for this edition covers the essentials; the links below provide the full instructions.