Is Twitch About Games Only?

It is considered so, but there are other stream topics, from sports to animals. Most twitchers, though, are interested in games. Twitch has the ambition to become the most versatile streaming service, but it’s still on the way. Games, of course, are different too – you know.

Are There Strangers? Dangerous Persons?

Yes, there are chats where users can talk to other users, both in public and in private. Chats cannot be turned off, though can be filtered. In general, street safety rules (don’t talk to strangers, don’t tell too much, call adults when in danger…) apply on Twitch as well. Teaching your kids these rules will give them better protection than any external filter.

What about Dangerous Content?

The policy of Twitch openly prohibits unlawful or explicit content. Still, there are categories like “hot tub videos” (exactly what it says on the tin). While streamers like this remain within borders, these streams are still explicit enough. On the other hand, even games themselves can contain nudity, profanity, or gore. Twitch even has its own Index Ludorum Prohibitorum (even their names may get some puritan minds shocked). No one guarantees that the streamer you watch won’t, say, start swearing when something goes wrong.

Does Twitch Cost Money?

Basically, it’s free. But watchers can support streamers with donations, and it may be the reason why money leaks from your credit card. At any suspicion, you better check the transaction history of your kid’s account.

Parental Control Options on Twitch

There are limitations you can apply from the kid’s account. They include the following:

• Content filters. If you apply “Family-friendly” or “Educational”, it will filter off the most mature content.
• Private messaging filters. You can block strangers from messaging your account.
• Chat filters. There is an option to hide messages that contain profanity, hostility, or sexually explicit talks.

There are no methods to limit time spent on Twitch, to read other users’ chats, or to control other users’ behavior in any possible way. So it becomes a question of trust. Do you trust your child enough to let them navigate that stream? If not, Twitch is the least of your issues. If so, relax and don’t worry.

Have you run into explicit or destructive streams on Twitch? Do you consider that risk too high for children? Does Twitch need to implement more protection methods? Let’s talk about the Internet, games, morality, and family relationships here in the comments!