A Guide to TikTok for Parents

‍

TikTok is one of the fastest-growing social media apps in the world. Originally, the app started in the USA where, it launched as a video-real App in August 2018. Over two years later, most teenagers will be using TikTok daily to either watch, share or create content. However, as a parent, it is difficult to understand the ins and outs of TikTok. Like all social media Apps, their technology rapidly develops. There are regular updates or newly added features each week. In other words, once you think you have understood the App, there is a new element to it. Here, we will explain what you need to know about TikTok as a parent. 

At TogetherAI we want to educate parents and empower adolescents to use the internet and social media safely.  For parents, having the right knowledge is critical to understand the current technology. Whereas, teenagers need to understand the dangers of the internet.  Together, we can work to develop trust in your child's use of social media apps and the internet in this ever-developing digitalized society.

What is TikTok?

In a nutshell, TikTok is a free social media app. The App enables users to watch, share and create short video content. The content is usually accompanied by music or a soundtrack that is trending.  The platform started primarily by users creating videos dancing and lip-syncing to popular music. However, since the rapid increase in users, the content has transformed into new concepts such as comedy, beauty tips, and tutorial videos. 

Users can like, comment or share videos via other social networks by sending content directly to their peers. In addition, TikTok is used by brands, companies and celebrities, much like Instagram and Twitter. On the App, they promote new products, ads, films, music or similar. 

Once you have logged into the App, you can search for popular content based on your interests. TikTok can be connected to other social media platforms enabling your Instagram followers or Facebook friends to find you on the app.  

Is it Safe?

Usually, TikTok is considered safe for general use as most of the videos don't contain explicit content. If your child is over 16, their videos are automatically made available to the public. Consequently, anyone can direct message or interact with your children. With that said, this can be easily replicated through the App's privacy settings, meaning only people who they know can see their content or interact with them. 

The App recently updated its privacy setting for younger users. Anyone aged between 13-15 will automatically have a private account, meaning that their content will not be made available to the public. In addition to this, their videos cannot be downloaded off the App itself, so their content remains secure to the App. 

Is TikTok appropriate for teenagers to use?

As a minimum, TikTok is very similar to other social media apps where any user is required to be aged 13 or above. However, it is worth noting that the app also asks for the approval of a legal parent or guardian for any user under the age of 18. Therefore, it is worth recalling if your teenager did ask permission for using the App. As the App content is based a lot on music and sounds, some of the content contains swear words.  

Although there is a search feature on TikTok, the platform won't permit anyone to search for explicit content. However, as most videos appear via the 'For You Page', which is accessible to any user, there is a risk of mature content. Overall, the App can be appropriate for children, providing they use it responsibly and safely. 

Can My Kids Become TikTok Famous? 

The simple answer is yes. If they have their account set as private, they cannot become TikTok famous as all users won't have access to their videos. However, the popularity of the App is mainly drawn from the possibility of becoming famous. With just one video, your child's content could easily go viral and be shared across the world. 

There are downsides to your teenagers trying to become famous on the app. For example, it is natural for them to become obsessed with the number of likes, comments, shares and followers they have as well as their friends. In addition, it could distract them from school work as they spend more time creating videos for their followers. 

Despite this, the app has incorporated a new feature called 'Digital Wellbeing' where you can set your own screen-time. This is perhaps something you can discuss with your child if you feel they are obsessing over-popularity. Heavy use could potentially have a negative impact on their mental health in other ways, such as confidence or body image issues. 

There have been many success stories from using the platform. Some users are becoming successful comedians, dancers and even musicians. Did you know than the song 'Wellerman' by Nathan Evans, was actually founded from TikTok? 

Should I Be Concerned About Data Collection?

All apps, smartphones, laptops and digital devices collect and store data, TikTok being no different.  Although what it does do, it collects data whilst you're not using the App. This means it can use the data to send videos that its algorithm thinks would be of interest to the user.

Think about it, have you ever bought a Starbucks and then seen an Instagram ad for the brand? It works in a similar way. 

How Can I Use the App with My Teens?

The easiest way to get involved with TikTok is by creating videos with your children. This will also enable them to learn what you consider to be appropriate content. By working with your kids, they might be a bit more open on the type of videos they watch on the app. Or this might enable you to gain an understanding of the type of content they are watching. 

Alternatively, you also have a feature called 'duets'. This is where you take a video from a current user and create a new one showing your reaction to their original content. Although this might be embarrassing for them, this could be a good icebreaker!

Can I Track My Child's Usage?

Due to the recent high uptake amongst young teenagers, the app has created a way for parents to monitor their children's usage. To do this, you will need to develop a profile yourself. Through your settings, you can link your account to your child's via 'Family Pairing'. Through this, you can restrict the content they see, limit the time they can spend on the App and also control direct messages sent from strangers. 

How TogetherAI Can Help

Here, at TogetherAI, We have developed an App to help you and your family to navigate growing up in a digitalized world. We can help to understand any signs of distress of your child through online messaging as well as offer ways to empower the use of social media in a safe and secure way. Join the community today to find out more.