Minimum age according to Terms of Use: 13+

What is Twitch?

Twitch is a platform for live streaming—content broadcast in real time. While best known for video game streaming, users (called streamers) now also stream content like cooking, drawing, chatting with viewers, commentaries, reading books, or singing. Children and teens often use Twitch to follow their favorite streamers and interact withthem via live chat. Watching streams is possible without registration, but interaction (commenting, subscribing) requires an account.

What parents should watch out for:

Inappropriate language and behavior

Although there is moderation, Twitch content is live, meaning children may be exposed to swearing, inappropriate comments, violent game scenes, or provocative streamer behavior at any moment.

Live chat and contact with strangers

Chat rooms allow direct communication. Children may unintentionally interact with people who pressure them to do something, share personal information, or send inappropriate messages.

Challenges and dares from the audience

Viewers may encourage streamers (including children) to perform dares like TikTok dances, showing their body, or doing “funny” stunts that seem harmless but can lead to exploitation.

Ads and hidden gambling promotion

Twitch contains ads, including those for games promoting loot box purchases and betting brands—which may contribute to risky behavior patterns in children.

Lack of parental controls and content filtering

Although Twitch uses mature content labels, these are based on streamers’ self-assessments. Parental controls are limited compared to other platforms.

Advice for parents

Familiarize yourself with Twitch and read their Parents’ Guid

Twitch offers a guide for parents and educators with advice on how to talk to children and set safety boundaries.

Talk about the content your child watches

Ask which streamers they follow, why they enjoy them, and what they find entertaining. If your child feels they can speak to you without judgment, they are more likely to tell you if they encounter inappropriate content.

Use chat filters

Twitch allows blocking inappropriate language in chat. Help your child enable these filters and report any form of harassment.

Set time limits and usage rules

Agree on when, how long, and where your child can use Twitch. Using devices in shared spaces is strongly recommended.

Clarify boundaries around sharing content

Make sure they know not to participate in challenges that involve showing their body, completing dares under audience pressure, or contacting strangers.

Respond immediately to suspicious behavior

If someone requests sexually suggestive content or communicates inappropriately with your child, report it to Twitch immediately—and to the police if necessary.

Additional support and reporting

If you’re concerned about your child’s online safety:

• Helpline: 0800 200 880
• Report illegal content: www.netpatrola.rs
• Suspected online abuse: Contact the police immediately
• Remove explicit photos: www.ncii.csi.org.rs
• More resources: www.cnzd.rs
• Free psychological and legal support: kontakt@cnzd.rs