If you are following our blogs, you probably know our "Pros and Cons of Instagram for Students," "Pros and Cons of Facebook for Students," and "7 Tips for Overcoming Your Addiction to Instagram in 2023" blogs. So today is TikTok's turn. TikTok is one of the most widely used social networking sites in the world, with over 1 billion active users per month. Although TikTok may be quite entertaining for both children and adults, it's vital to keep in mind that certain security dangers are involved. We'll go through the dos and don'ts of using TikTok responsibly in this blog article, along with advice on how to keep your kids safe while using the app.
What is TikTok, and what are the risks for kids?
A social networking software called TikTok enables users to make and share little films. Teenagers and tweens, particularly, are fond of using it to create amusing films with their pals or share lip-sync performances. Although using the app might be entertaining for kids, there are certain dangers. These consist of the following:
- Cyberbullying and online harassment: Like other social media sites, TikTok has the potential to be a place where cyberbullies target children and teenagers.
- Inappropriate content: Users may come across offensive content like violence, vulgarity, or sexual material because anybody may upload films to the network.
- Online predators: Users run the danger of being the target of internet predators who try to contact children offline or gather personal information about them.
Why do young people adore TikTok?
They are able to express themselves through brief video clips, which helps them garner fans and create communities centered on their interests.
Additionally, it offers some fantastic special effects that users may add to their films to give them a more distinctive look. To reach a wider audience, you might cross-post the information on other websites (like Instagram).
How to create a secure account for your child?
It's crucial to set up a secure account on TikTok to shield your youngster from dangers. The following advice will assist you in creating a secure environment:
- Link your account with your child's account using the "Family Pairing" option. This will enable you to keep an eye on their behavior, authorize who they may follow, and impose restrictions on particular kinds of information.
- Create a private account for your child so that only followers who have been given permission may watch their recordings.
- Review their account on a regular basis to see who they are following and communicating with.
- Inform them of the dangers of TikTok use, including cyberbullying, online predators, and unsuitable content, and go over safety precautions.
- Set limitations on how much time they may spend on the app and what kinds of information they are allowed to share.
The Dos and Don’ts of TikTok for Kids
Dos:
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Regularly monitor your child's TikTok activity to ensure they are engaging with appropriate content and staying safe online.
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Encourage your child to create positive, original content rather than reposting harmful or offensive material. Sharing dangerous videos could lead to serious legal consequences.
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Make sure your child understands TikTok's strict rules against bullying, harassment, and aggressive behavior. Remind them to always act with respect and kindness.
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Teach your child the importance of privacy settings and how to use them to protect their personal information from unauthorized access.
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Remind your child to avoid following strangers or suspicious accounts and to only connect with people they know and trust.
Don'ts:
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Make sure your child does not share any personal information online, such as their address, date of birth, or phone number.
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Prevent your child from meeting anyone in person whom they’ve only met on TikTok, as this can be highly dangerous.
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Ensure your child avoids posting suggestive or provocative content that could be viewed by others.
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Monitor your child’s time on the app and set reasonable limits to manage their usage.
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Do not allow your child to post or use language that could be considered offensive in any way.
What to do if you find your child has been exposed to inappropriate content on TikTok?
It's crucial to respond quickly if you discover that your youngster has been exposed to offensive information on TikTok. You can follow the instructions listed below:
- Discuss the experience with your child and any possible worries they may have.
- Inform the TikTok safety center about the problematic video or account.
- Tell your youngster to unfollow the person who uploaded the information and block them.
- Assist your child in finding TikTok age and safety-appropriate content that suits their interests.
- Review their account on a regular basis to see who they are following and communicating with.
- Encourage open discussion with your kid, so they feel free to express any problems or worries.
- Inform your child about the value of online safety and establish clear ground rules and expectations for their conduct on TikTok.
- If extra assistance is required, look for a qualified therapist or counselor.
Tips for monitoring your kids' TikTok use
Even with all of the precautions and rules in place, it is crucial to keep an eye on how your kids are using TikTok. Observe your children's use of TikTok by following this advice:
- Ensure you know their login credentials and regularly monitor their account activity.
- Use parental control apps to track their behavior and set usage limits.
- Talk to your children about the risks of social media, such as cyberbullying and online predators.
- Ask questions to help them understand the importance of online privacy and safety.
- Stay informed about the latest trends and apps popular among teens.
- Remind your children not to meet up with strangers or divulge personal information.
- Make connections with other local parents and share advice on how to keep your children safe online.
- If you have any worries or inquiries concerning TikTok's rules and safety precautions, get in touch with their staff.
The benefits of using TikTok safely with your kids
An excellent method to pass the time and keep yourself busy while at home is using TikTok. When used safely, the app offers a number of advantageous features, including:
- Staying in touch with friends and family
- Exchanging creative content
- Investigating novel hobbies and interests
- Improving communication, self-expression, and creative abilities
- Interacting with users from various cultural backgrounds
- Gaining knowledge about current events and fashion trends
- Promoting exercise through dancing competitions, etc.
Additional resources for keeping your kids safe on the internet
- TikTok Safety Center: https://support.tiktok.com/en
- National Cyber Security Alliance: https://staysafeonline.org/
- Common Sense Media: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/
- FBI Parent’s Guide to Internet Safety: https://www.fbi.gov/
- ConnectSafely: https://connectsafely.org/
- Cyberbullying Research Center: https://cyberbullying.org/
- NetSmartz Workshop: https://www.missingkids.org/NetSmartz
- The National Crime Prevention Council: https://www.ncpc.org/resources/cyberbullying/
- ThinkUKnow: https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents/
- Federal Trade Commission: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/topics/kids-online-safety
- StopBullying.gov: https://www.stopbullying.gov/cyberbullying/social-media-apps-sites-commonly-used-children-teens
Final thoughts on keeping your kids safe on TikTok
Although TikTok is a fantastic platform for users of all ages, it's crucial to keep in mind that the app has certain hazards. You can ensure your kid uses TikTok securely and responsibly by adhering to the safety advice given above and remaining active in their TikTok activities. Additionally, you may make sure they are aware of the possible dangers and how to take precautions by teaching them the significance of internet safety.
At the end of the day, it's critical for parents to be involved in their kids' online activity and to have open dialogues with them about internet safety. You can guarantee that your kids are having a fun and safe time on TikTok by completing the steps listed above.