TikTok remains a popular app amongst young people and despite its age limit of 13+, many children still have a TikTok account. This is enabled by the fact that there are very few checks in place to ensure that users signing up are over the age of 13. While TikTok can be a source of entertainment and creativity, it also comes with its own set of risks. As parents, it’s crucial to be aware of these potential dangers. From exposure to inappropriate content to encounters with online predators, TikTok poses several risks for our children’s safety and well-being. Moreover, excessive use of the app can lead to issues such as cyberbullying, negative effects on mental health and increased passive screen-time. In late 2023, TikTok rolled out a new feature to try and reduce hate and discrimination on the platform: ‘Comment Care Mode’ filters comments deemed similar to ones a user has previously reported or deleted as well as comments that are inappropriate or offensive. It is important to note that this mode has to be enabled. We encourage you to engage in open conversations with your children about their online activities and set clear boundaries regarding their TikTok usage.
